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Entry Level Nurse Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Jill's House

Entry-level Nurse - PRN (RN and LPN)

Mclean, VA · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Nurse PRN (RN or LPN) Jill's House is a Christian non-profit organization and auxiliary ministry of McLean Bible Church called by God to love individuals toward Jesus by providing them with short ...

Jill's House

Entry-level Nurse - PRN (RN and LPN)

Vienna, VA · On-site

$27.25 - $37.25/hr

Nurse PRN (RN or LPN) Jill's House is a Christian non-profit organization and auxiliary ministry of McLean Bible Church called by God to love individuals toward Jesus by providing them with short ...

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All JobsNurse JobsEntry Level Nurse JobsEntry Level Nurse Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Nurse information

See Virginia salary details

$17

$38

$64

How much do entry level nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level nurse in Virginia is $38.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.33 and $42.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level nurse?

Entry level nurses are healthcare professionals who have recently earned their nursing degree, typically a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), and have passed the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. They are often referred to as registered nurses (RNs) starting out in their careers, working under the supervision of more experienced nurses and physicians. Entry level nurses perform basic patient care, administer medications, monitor patient conditions, and educate patients and families about health management. Their roles may vary depending on the healthcare setting, such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. These positions provide foundational experience and opportunities for professional growth within the nursing field.

What does an entry level nurse do?

An entry-level nurse handles the routine tasks of clinical care, such as taking regular vital signs, serving meals, and helping individuals dress. Your duties in this career also include following the care plan for each patient, which includes administering medication if you have a Certified Medication Assistant (CMA) credential. You find the most entry-level nurse positions at residential or health care facilities, hospitals, and assisted living communities. You work closely with other medical staff to update the assessment of every patient. Other responsibilities vary with the state and your qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Nurse, you need a foundational understanding of patient care, basic clinical procedures, and a nursing degree along with state licensure (RN or LPN). Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, vital sign monitors, and basic medical equipment is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for effectively supporting patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. Mastering these skills ensures safe, efficient patient care and lays the groundwork for career advancement in nursing.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level nurses during their first year on the job?

Entry level nurses often encounter challenges such as managing a fast-paced workload, adapting to shift work, and building confidence in clinical decision-making. They may also face emotional stress from caring for critically ill patients and navigating complex patient interactions. Support from experienced colleagues and structured orientation programs can help new nurses adjust, and many hospitals offer mentorship or residency programs to ease the transition into professional practice.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nurse vs Licensed Practical Nurse?

AspectEntry Level NurseLicensed Practical Nurse
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require certificationLicensed through state-specific practical nursing license
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist patients, monitor vital signs, basic careProvide basic nursing care, administer medications, assist with procedures
EducationTypically a diploma or associate degree in nursing (for RN)Practical nursing diploma or certificate

Both Entry Level Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses work in healthcare settings providing patient care. While they share similar environments and some responsibilities, Licensed Practical Nurses have specific licensure and often perform more advanced tasks. Entry Level Nurse roles may include those with minimal experience or training, often as a stepping stone to becoming a licensed nurse.

Is it hard to get an entry-level nurse job?

Securing an entry-level nurse position can be competitive, but having a valid nursing license, clinical experience, and relevant certifications can improve your chances. Job availability depends on location, healthcare demand, and your qualifications, but many healthcare facilities hire new graduates regularly.
More about Entry Level Nurse jobs

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

The most popular types of Nurse jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

Entry Level Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nurse job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,632 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

New Grad RN, General Surgery at Mary Washington Healthcare Fredericksburg, VA

Downtown Boulder Partnership

Fredericksburg, VA • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

New Grad RN, General Surgery job at Mary Washington Healthcare. Fredericksburg, VA.

Start the day excited to make a difference…end the day knowing you did. Come join our team.

Job Summary: The Level I Novice Registered Nurse is an entry-level nurse who has graduated from an accredited nursing program and does not have clinical experience as a Registered Nurse. The Level I MWHC nurse is responsible for mastering the knowledge and skills necessary for competent Level II nursing practice within one year of beginning employment at Mary Washington Healthcare.

Practice Standards for a Level I Registered Nurse:

In the MWHC Practice Standards, a Level I Registered Nurse is outlined in the following areas of:

  • Exemplary Professional Practice Standards
  • Structural Empowerment Practice Standards
  • Transformational Leadership Practice Standards
  • New Knowledge, Innovations, and Improvement Practice Standards
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
  • Direct and coordinate nursing care, including oversight of licensed and unlicensed personnel in any assigned or delegated tasks using the nursing process and interdisciplinary teamwork to achieve desired patient outcomes.
  • Coordinate involvement of the patient, family and health team members in patient care, including patient/family teaching and discharge planning.
  • Communicate and coordinate the plan of care and other pertinent information to/from other health care team members.
  • Assist Leadership to define standards of excellence for patient care; participate in improvement of patient care services.
  • Participate in, contribute to and integrate performance improvement into care delivery and participate in quality improvement activities.
  • Participate in daily operational activities necessary for safe patient/staff environment.
  • Provide input to the Nurse Manager regarding unit needs.
  • Participate in unit, departmental and hospital committees for formulation of nursing and hospital policies and procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
  • Graduate of an accredited nursing program and has no experience as a Registered Nurse.
  • Valid RN License from Virginia or reciprocal compact state.
  • BSN is preferred.
  • AHA BLS Provider CPR required at hire.

As an EOE/AA employer, the organization will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.

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