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Entry Level Nurse Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sodexo

Clinical Nutrition Manager 3

Turlock, CA · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

... skilled nursing facility in Turlock, CA. This position is 40% patient care & 60% operations ... entry-level professional staff. * Ensure high levels of customer and client satisfaction by ...

Sodexo

Clinical Nutrition Manager 3

Turlock, CA

$81K - $105K/yr

... skilled nursing facility in Turlock, CA. This position is 40% patient care & 60% operations ... entry-level professional staff. * Ensure high levels of customer and client satisfaction by ...

Sodexo

Clinical Nutrition Manager 3

Turlock, CA · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

... skilled nursing facility in Turlock, CA. This position is 40% patient care & 60% operations ... entry-level professional staff. * Ensure high levels of customer and client satisfaction by ...

Sodexo

Clinical Nutrition Manager 3

Turlock, CA

$81K - $105K/yr

... skilled nursing facility in Turlock, CA. This position is 40% patient care & 60% operations ... entry-level professional staff. * Ensure high levels of customer and client satisfaction by ...

All JobsNurse JobsEntry Level Nurse JobsEntry Level Nurse Jobs in Merced, CA

Entry Level Nurse information

See Merced, CA salary details

$18

$40

$69

How much do entry level nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level nurse in Merced, CA is $40.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.20 and $45.67 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 Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Nurse jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Entry Level Nurse jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Entry Level Nurse job openings:

Entry Level Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nurse job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,821 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Certified Nursing Assistant/Certified Home Health Aide- Full Time (CovenantCare)

Covenant Living

Turlock, CA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Covenant Living rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

We Are Inspired to Serve. Join us!
The Home Health CNA is a paraprofessional member of the home care team who works under the supervision of a registered
nurse or therapist and performs various personal care services as necessary to meet the patient's needs. The Home Health CNA
is responsible for observing patients, reporting these observations and documenting observations and care performed. The Home
Health CNA will be assigned in a manner that promotes quality, continuity and safety of a patients care.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Providing personal care including baths, back rubs, oral hygiene, shampoos, changing bed linen, assisting patients with dressing and undressing, skin care to prevent breakdown, assisting the patient with toileting activities, and keeping patient's living area clean and orderly, as appropriate.
  • Planning and preparing nutritious meals and assisting in feeding the patient, if necessary.
  • Taking and recording oral, rectal, and axillary temperatures, pulse, respiration and blood pressure when ordered (with appropriate completed/demonstrated skills competency).
  • Assisting in ambulation and exercise according to the plan of care.
  • Performing range of motion and other simple procedures as an extensional therapy service as ordered (with appropriate completed/demonstrated skills competency).
  • Assisting patient in self-administration of medication.
  • Doing patients laundry, as appropriate.
  • Meeting safety needs of patients and using equipment safely and properly (foot stools, side rails, etc.)

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:
  • Required Degree: High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Certificate(s): Completion and passing the test for an approved Nursing Assistant program in the State, CPR and HHA Certification, if required by state
  • Experience: Entry Level

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITY:
  • Knowledge of medical basics and Home Health.
  • Knowledge of HIPPA laws and confidentiality.
  • Strong emotional stability and ability to show compassion, care and patience.
  • Problem solving, critical thinking, communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to measure vital signs, record patient information and maintain proper hygiene for patients.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to stand, sit, talk, reach, stoop, kneel, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, and keyboard.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight up to 100 lbs.
  • Ability to operate various equipment base on department.
  • The ability to hear, understand, and distinguish speech and/or other sounds (e.g., machinery alarms, medical codes or alarms. Four hearing requirements listed: In person speech, Telephone, Other remote speech and other sounds.
  • Clarity of Vision:
    • For near visual acuity Clarity of vision at approximately 20 inches or less (i.e., working with small objects or reading small print), including use of computers.
    • For far visual acuity, Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more. This is not just the ability to see a person or object, but the ability to recognize features as well.
    • For peripheral vision, observing an area that can be seen up and down or to right or left while eyes are fixed on a given point.

#NursingSupport
Compensation Pay Range:
$22.00 - $25.00 per hour
Reasonable Pay Estimate
A reasonable estimate of the pay range for this position is $22.00 - $25.00 per hour. There are numerous factors taken into consideration in determining the actual offered rate of pay, including but not limited to: job-related qualifications, experience, skills, education, geographic location, and consideration of internal and external equity.
For full time employees, we offer a generous benefits package that includes:
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Employer paid group term life and disability
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & six paid holidays
  • 403(b) with a 3% employer match
  • Fitness center use at most facilities.
  • Various voluntary benefits:
    • Life, AD&D
    • Tuition assistance and scholarships
    • Employee assistance program
    • Legal services, home/auto insurance, discount purchasing program
    • Pet Insurance

For more information about Covenant Living and CovenantCare at Home, please visit www.covliving.org or www.covenantcareathome.org.
Covenant Living and CovenantCare Home Health and Hospice are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status, protected genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by local laws, regulations, or ordinances.

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