ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Nicu Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Mission Hospital

RN - Neonatal ICU (NICU)

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$1.9K/wk

Details Client Name LEWISGALE MEDICAL CENTER VA Job Type Travel Offering Nursing Profession RN Specialty Neonatal ICU (NICU) Job ID 18983318 Job Title RN - Neonatal ICU (NICU) Weekly Pay $1993.72 ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsNicu JobsEntry Level Nicu JobsEntry Level Nicu Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Nicu information

What is an entry level NICU job?

Entry level NICU jobs are positions in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for individuals who are early in their careers, often recent nursing graduates or nurses transitioning into neonatal care. These roles typically involve providing specialized care to premature or critically ill newborns under the supervision of experienced NICU staff. Responsibilities may include monitoring vital signs, administering medications, assisting with feeding, and supporting families. Entry level NICU positions often require a valid nursing license (RN) and may provide on-the-job training specific to neonatal care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level NICU nurse?

To thrive as an Entry Level NICU Nurse, you need a current RN license, foundational knowledge of neonatal care, and a basic understanding of infant assessment and intervention. Familiarity with neonatal monitoring equipment, electronic health records, and completion of certifications like Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) are typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you support families and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure the safe, effective care of vulnerable newborns and foster a supportive environment for both patients and their families.

What are some typical challenges an entry level NICU nurse may face during their first year on the job?

As an entry-level NICU nurse, you may encounter challenges such as adjusting to the emotional intensity of caring for critically ill newborns and learning to communicate effectively with both families and multidisciplinary teams. Adapting to the fast-paced, technology-driven environment and mastering specialized equipment can also be demanding. Ongoing training, mentorship, and support from experienced colleagues are common ways hospitals help new NICU nurses build confidence and develop essential skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nicu vs Pediatric Nurse?

AspectEntry Level NicuPediatric Nurse
Required CertificationsCPR, Basic Life Support (BLS), Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)CPR, BLS, Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
Work EnvironmentNeonatal intensive care units, hospitalsPediatric wards, clinics, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, neonatal care centersHospitals, pediatric clinics, community health centers

Entry Level Nicu nurses primarily focus on caring for critically ill newborns in neonatal intensive care units, requiring certifications like NRP. Pediatric nurses work with children of all ages in various settings, often needing PALS certification. While both roles involve working with young patients in hospital environments, Entry Level Nicu nurses specialize in neonatal care, whereas pediatric nurses have a broader scope across different pediatric age groups.

Is it hard to get hired as a entry level NICU nurse?

Securing an entry-level NICU nurse position can be competitive due to high demand for neonatal care, but candidates with a nursing license, relevant clinical experience, and certifications such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) often have good prospects. Strong communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment also improve hiring chances.

What do I need to do to work in the entry level NICU?

To work as an entry-level NICU nurse or technician, you typically need a relevant healthcare certification such as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or a nursing license if required, along with basic life support (BLS) certification. Prior experience in neonatal care or pediatrics is beneficial, and strong communication and teamwork skills are essential in the NICU environment.

Where do I start to become an entry level NICU nurse?

To become an entry-level NICU nurse, you need to earn a nursing degree such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam, and obtain state licensure. Gaining experience through clinical rotations in neonatal or pediatric units and obtaining certifications like Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) can improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nicu jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Nicu jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Nicu jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Nicu job openings:

Entry Level Nicu jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nicu job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Travel Nurse RN - NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care

GHR Healthcare

Richmond, VA • On-site

$2.1K - $2.2K/wk

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

GHR Healthcare is seeking a travel nurse RN NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care for a travel nursing job in Richmond, Virginia.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: 08/31/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel

Travel NICU Registered Nurse – Level III NICU Contract in Richmond, Virginia

Travel NICU RN opportunity in Richmond, VA: join a high-acuity Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and provide expert care to critically ill newborns. This 13-week travel nursing contract is ideal for an experienced neonatal nurse who thrives in a fast-paced acute care environment and wants to make a meaningful impact with every shift.

Job Details
  • Specialty: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
  • Job Title: Travel NICU Registered Nurse
  • Employment Type: Travel Nursing Contract
  • Contract Length: 13 weeks
  • Weekly Estimated Pay: $2,130 - $2,250
  • Location: Richmond, VA 23226 — a welcoming city with historic neighborhoods, a vibrant downtown, and easy access to the James River.
  • Healthcare Setting: Level III NICU
  • Shift Duration: 12-hour night shifts
  • Schedule: 36 hours per week; every other weekend and major holiday coverage required
  • Patient Population: Neonates requiring advanced intensive care
Job Requirements
  • Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice or compact license eligibility
  • At least 1 year of RN experience required
  • 2.5-3 years of NICU nursing experience required
  • BLS certification required
  • NRP certification required
  • Experience with cooling, ventilators, JET ventilators, and oscillators required
  • Strong assessment, critical thinking, and pediatric/neonatal care skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced acute care and critical care environment
  • Comfortable supporting care for highly vulnerable neonatal patients
Responsibilities
  • Provide direct, compassionate nursing care to critically ill neonates in a Level III NICU
  • Complete ongoing assessments and respond quickly to changes in patient condition
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized plans of care
  • Administer medications and therapies safely and accurately
  • Collaborate with the interdisciplinary healthcare team to support the best possible patient outcomes
  • Use specialized NICU equipment and support advanced neonatal interventions
  • Assist with resuscitation, stabilization, and ongoing management of fragile newborns
  • Educate and support families through the NICU experience
  • Maintain a safe, organized, and patient-focused care environment

Apply now to join a rewarding Richmond, Virginia healthcare team and advance your career in travel NICU nursing.

Benefits

401K with Matching, Healthcare, Dental and Vision

Equal Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity across our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

GHR Healthcare Job ID #506144. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: NICU

About GHR Healthcare

For over 30 years, GHR Healthcare has been the bridge between healthcare

professionals and the facilities that need them nationwide. We're committed to

uncovering your ideal fit, supported by GHR's dedication to competitive

compensation, transparent communication, and a devoted team that genuinely

cares about your career journey. You can trust us to stand by your side as your

advocate, confidante, and partner in advancing your career. At GHR, care and

consideration are at the heart of everything we do. Visit ghrhealthcare.com to

learn more.

Apply