2

Entry Level Nurse Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

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.

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:

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.

REGISTERED NURSE I - ENTRY LEVEL

State of Virginia

Williamsburg, VA

$79K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


State Of Virginia rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 50 rated states


Job description

REGISTERED NURSE I - ENTRY LEVEL

Apply now Job no: 5107912
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Williamsburg, Virginia
Categories: Health and Human Services

Title: REGISTERED NURSE I - ENTRY LEVEL

State Role Title: Registered Nurses

Hiring Range: $79,268 - $113,219

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Dept Behavioral Health/Develop

Location: Eastern State Hospital

Agency Website: 

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Utilizing knowledge base and experience, provide quality nursing care to adult and geriatric psychiatric patients through the nursing process in accordance with hospital policy and procedure and standards of nursing practice. Evaluates, supervises, documents and provides guidance in performance of staff. This position is considered essential personnel and would be required to work in the event of an emergency, pandemic, or facility need. All ESH positions are required to work different shifts to include nights, weekends and holidays, and/or overtime as requested.
Schedule: This position works a set 12-hour shift on a two-week rotating schedule. Employees work 36 hours one week and 48 hours the following week or vice versa. Available shifts are 7:00 a.m.-7:30 p.m. or 7:00 p.m.-7:30 a.m.

Minimum Qualifications

Registered Nurse or license eligible; multi-state compact endorsement accepted or licensed within 90 days of employment.

Additional Considerations

Psychiatry and or geriatric related experience preferred.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Contact Information

Name:

Phone:

Email:

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 27 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend

Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What State Of Virginia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom