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

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Entry Level Rn information

See Merced, CA salary details

$22

$31

$43

How much do entry level rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level rn in Merced, CA is $31.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.87 and $32.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
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Entry Level Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rn job openings in Merced, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,196 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
Certified Nursing Assistant, Hospice (CovenantCare) Full Time

Certified Nursing Assistant, Hospice (CovenantCare) Full Time

Covenant Living Communities & Services

Turlock, CA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

We Are Inspired to Serve. Join Us!

The Hospice CNA is a paraprofessional member of the hospice 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 Hospice CNA is responsible for observing patients, reporting these observations and documenting observations and care performed. The Hospice CNA will be assigned in a manner that promotes quality, continuity and safety of a patient's 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 Hospice.
  • 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 based 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.

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

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