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Entry Level Rn Jobs in California, PA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Rn information

What are Entry Level RNs?

Entry Level Registered Nurses (RNs) are newly licensed nurses who have recently graduated from an accredited nursing program and passed the NCLEX-RN exam. They typically have less than one year of professional nursing experience and work under the supervision of more experienced nurses and healthcare professionals. Entry Level RNs provide direct patient care, administer medications, and assist with medical procedures while gaining practical experience and developing their clinical skills. These positions are designed to help new nurses transition into the workforce and build a foundation for a successful nursing career.

How to make 200,000 a year as a nurse?

Entry-level registered nurses typically do not earn $200,000 annually; higher earnings are achieved through advanced roles such as nurse anesthetists, nurse practitioners, or nurse managers, which require additional certifications and experience. Specializing in high-demand areas, working overtime, or taking on leadership positions can increase earning potential over time.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level registered nurses during their first year, and how can they navigate them?

Entry-level registered nurses often encounter challenges such as managing time effectively during busy shifts, adapting to the fast-paced clinical environment, and building confidence in clinical decision-making. To navigate these challenges, new nurses can seek support from experienced colleagues, participate in hospital orientation or residency programs, and stay proactive in asking questions and seeking feedback. Developing strong communication and organizational skills early on can also help ease the transition and foster professional growth.

Can I go straight to an RN with no experience?

Becoming an entry-level registered nurse (RN) typically requires completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. While some employers may hire new graduates with no prior experience, candidates usually need to demonstrate clinical skills, a valid license, and sometimes certification in basic life support (BLS).

What Does an Entry-Level RN Do?

An entry-level RN cares for patients in a variety of settings, mostly clinical. Your responsibilities may include assessment of patient conditions, creation and execution of patient-specific care plans, consultation with physicians and specialists, and communicating with patients and their families regarding treatment options and medication. With certification as an RN, entry-level nurses develop patient care skills while carrying out regular duties such as placing IVs, administering treatments and medications, documenting patient information, and other clinical tasks. As an entry-level RN, you can work in a variety of settings under the guidance of a doctor while gaining experience to help advance your career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level RN, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level RN, you need a nursing degree, RN licensure, and a solid understanding of clinical procedures and patient care. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, basic medical equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and empathy help new nurses build relationships with patients and collaborate effectively with colleagues. These skills are vital for ensuring patient safety, delivering quality care, and adapting to the fast-paced demands of healthcare environments.

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

AspectEntry Level RnLicensed Practical Nurse
CredentialsAssociate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), RN licenseDiploma or Certificate in Practical Nursing, LPN license
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, outpatient settingsLong-term care, nursing homes, clinics, hospitals (supervised roles)
Job ResponsibilitiesAssessments, care planning, administering medications, patient educationBasic patient care, vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living

Entry Level Rns and Licensed Practical Nurses both provide essential patient care but differ mainly in education, scope of practice, and responsibilities. Rns typically have more advanced training and can perform more complex tasks, while Lpns focus on basic care under supervision. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job opportunity.

What is considered the easiest RN job?

The easiest RN job often involves working in outpatient clinics, telehealth, or school nursing, where patient acuity is generally lower and shifts are more predictable. These roles typically require less physical demand and fewer emergency situations compared to hospital settings, making them suitable for new graduates seeking a less stressful environment. However, ease of a job can vary based on individual skills and preferences.

What is an entry level job in nursing?

An entry level nursing job typically refers to a registered nurse (RN) position suitable for new graduates or those with minimal work experience. These roles often involve basic patient care, require a valid nursing license, and may include orientation or training periods to develop clinical skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rn jobs in California, PA? The most popular types of Rn jobs in California, PA are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Rn jobs in California, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Rn jobs in California, PA are:
What cities near California, PA are hiring for Entry Level Rn jobs? Cities near California, PA with the most Entry Level Rn job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rn job openings in California, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Professional Staff Nurse, Cardiac Cath Lab/Interventional Radiology

Professional Staff Nurse, Cardiac Cath Lab/Interventional Radiology

UPMC McKeesport

Mckeesport, PA โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 13 hours ago


Job description

Registered Nurse - Imaging Services (Cath Lab, IR & Diagnostic Radiology Imaging Areas)

Flex Full-Time | 3 shifts per week, 7:30am-4:00pm weekdays with potential to flex up| No weekends or holidays

UPMC McKeesport is seeking an experienced Registered Nurse to support our Imaging Services team, including the Cath Lab, Interventional Radiology, CT, Ultrasound, and Diagnosticguided procedures.

What You'll Do

  • Provide nursing support across Cardiac Cath Lab/Interventional Radiology and multiple imaging modalities
  • Assist with imagingguided procedures and patient flow
  • Work collaboratively with a crosstrained team in a highly supportive environment

Schedule

  • 3 shifts- 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM on weekdays with potential to flex up
  • No weekends or holidays!

What We're Looking For

  • RNs with at least 1 year of nursing experience (GNs not considered)
  • Current ACLS certification
  • IV insertion skills
  • Experience with accessing ports and use of central lines as well as moderate sedation knowledge
  • Nurses that are flexible and can multitask/adapt to change thrive in this environment

Why Join Us?

  • Daylight weekday schedule!
  • Every day is different - variety across all imaging areas
  • Strong team with exceptional longevity and a true family atmosphere
  • Highly collaborative environment where all modalities work together in a community hospital

The pay range shown is for our entry level nurse with 0-2 years of nursing experience with an Associates degree. Nurse title and pay rate will be adjusted to match candidate's experience and education.

Responsibilities:

  • Develops and maintains productive working relationships internally and externally by demonstrating accountability for actions, enthusiasm, motivation and commitment to patients and colleagues. Demonstrates an understanding of cultural differences and holds peers accountable for healthy relationships. Maintains a conscious balance between work and personal life. Models safe work hours, time management and healthy lifestyle. Communicates with peers and management any safety hazards identified in the workplace.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of adult learning principles (and/or teaching children if applicable) and applies in teaching of patients, families, students and new staff. Provides detailed and appropriate teaching to patients and families to effectively guide them through the episode of care as well as transition to another level of care and/or home. Supports the development of students, new staff and colleagues, may serve as a preceptor. Creates an environment of open dialogue, inquiry and continuous development by asking for feedback and improving practice.
  • Applies the nursing process within the framework of Relationship Based Care to create a healing environment. Formulates daily goals and a plan of care for patients that involves the patient as partner and considers the individual needs of the patient in a holistic manner. Demonstrates critical thinking in the identification of clinical, social, safety, psychological and spiritual issues for the patient care within an episode of care. Practices solid communication skills, and is able to articulate and translate the patient's condition to other care providers and to negotiate and make recommendations for changes in patient care and unit practices. Patient documentation is comprehensive and promotes communication between caregivers. Incorporates national professional organization as well as business unit and health system's goals to improve patient safety, quality and satisfaction.Creates a caring and compassionate patient focused experience by building healing relationships with patients, families and colleagues.
  • Demonstrates accountability for professional development that improves the quality of professional practice and the quality of patient care. Actively participates in unit-based shared governance, goal setting and supports the change and transition process to improve quality of care and the practice environment. Serves as a highly engaged and full partner on the care team and responds willingly to care team member needs for assistance and partnership. Participates in work that improves patient care and the professional practice environment. Adapts to change and demonstrates flexibility with the change process.
  • Actively participates in department or unit-specific quality improvement efforts. Identifies opportunity for quality improvement to colleagues and management. Takes personal responsibility in improving patient satisfaction with the quality of care and service. Utilizes research and evidence-based practice to support improvement in clinical care: identifies research issues or articles related to clinical specialty or areas of interest, discusses opportunities for quality improvement at multidisciplinary rounds, and influences patients' plans of care.
  • Demonstrates accountability for professional development that improves the quality of professional practice and the quality of patient care. Actively participates in unit-based shared governance, goal setting and supports the change and transition process to improve quality of care and the practice environment. Serves as a highly engaged and full partner on the care team and responds willingly to care team member needs for assistance and partnership. Participates in work that improves patient care and the professional practice environment. Adapts to change and demonstrates flexibility with the change process.
  • Applies the nursing process within the framework of Relationship Based Care to create a healing environment. Formulates daily goals and a plan of care for patients that involves the patient as partner and considers the individual needs of the patient in a holistic manner. Demonstrates critical thinking in the identification of clinical, social, safety, psychological and spiritual issues for the patient care within an episode of care. Practices solid communication skills, and is able to articulate and translate the patient's condition to other care providers and to negotiate and make recommendations for changes in patient care and unit practices. Patient documentation is comprehensive and promotes communication between caregivers. Incorporates national professional organization as well as business unit and health system's goals to improve patient safety, quality and satisfaction. Creates a caring and compassionate patient focused experience by building healing relationships with patients, families and colleagues.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of adult learning principles (and/or teaching children if applicable) and applies in teaching of patients, families, students and new staff. Provides detailed and appropriate teaching to patients and families to effectively guide them through the episode of care as well as transition to another level of care and/or home. Supports the development of students, new staff and colleagues, may serve as a preceptor. Creates an environment of open dialogue, inquiry and continuous development by asking for feedback and improving practice.
  • Actively participates in department or unit-specific quality improvement efforts. Identifies opportunity for quality improvement to colleagues and management. Takes personal responsibility in improving patient satisfaction with the quality of care and service. Utilizes research and evidence-based practice to support improvement in clinical care: identifies research issues or articles related to clinical specialty or areas of interest, discusses opportunities for quality improvement at multidisciplinary rounds, and influences patients' plans of care.
  • Develops and maintains productive working relationships internally and externally by demonstrating accountability for actions, enthusiasm, motivation and commitment to patients and colleagues. Demonstrates an understanding of cultural differences and holds peers accountable for healthy relationships. Maintains a conscious balance between work and personal life. Models safe work hours, time management and healthy lifestyle. Communicates with peers and management any safety hazards identified in the workplace.
  • *Performs in accordance with system-wide competencies/behaviors.
  • *Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Zero to two years of experience for salary shown, but looking for nurses with at least 1 year of nursing experience.
  • Ability to establish and maintain positive, caring relationships with executives, managers, physicians, non-physician providers, ancillary and support staff, other departments, and patients/families.
  • Ability to work productively and effectively within a complex environment, handle multiple/changing priorities and specialized equipment. Good clinical judgment with critical thinking, analytical and problem solving abilities required as related to various aspects of patient care.
  • Critical thinking skills necessary to exercise and to lead others in application of the nursing process.
  • Mobility and visual manual dexterity. Physical stamina for frequent walking, standing, lifting and positioning of patients.
    Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
    UPMC approved national certification preferred. Current licensure as a Registered Professional Nurse either in the state where the facility is located or in a state covered by a licensure compact agreement with the state where the facility is located. CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire.
    UPMC approved national certification preferred. Current licensure as a Registered Professional Nurse either in the state where the facility is located or in a state covered by a licensure compact agreement with the state where the facility is located. CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire. ACLS due within 12 months of hire.
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
  • Registered Nurse (RN) OR Temporary Practice Permit (TPP)
  • Act 34

*Current licensure either in the state where the facility is located or, if the facility is in a state covered by the multistate Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) agreement, a multistate license issued by a participating NLC state. Hires and current employees working on an out-of-state NLC license who later change their residency to the state where the facility is also located will have 60 days upon changing their residency to apply for licensure within that state.
UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran


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About UPMC

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UPMC, a distinguished healthcare provider and insurer headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, operates with a $23 billion budget. With a vast team of 92,000 employees, including 4,900 physicians, UPMC serves through over 40 academic, community, and specialty hospitals, along with 800+ doctors' offices and outpatient sites. Committed to patient-centered care, UPMC pioneers innovative and cost-effective models of accountable healthcare. The organization maintains a close affiliation with the University of Pittsburgh, a top recipient of National Institutes of Health research funding since 1998.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1893