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First Nurse Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Focus Staff

Travel Nurse RN - Psychiatric

Rochester, NY · On-site

$1.7K - $2.4K/wk

Focus Staff is a traveler-first nurse and healthcare staffing agency! We prioritize the needs of our travelers, giving you complete control over your journey. Our mission is to help you create the ...

Focus Staff

Travel Nurse RN - Psychiatric

Rochester, NY · On-site

$1.7K - $2.4K/wk

Focus Staff is a traveler-first nurse and healthcare staffing agency! We prioritize the needs of our travelers, giving you complete control over your journey. Our mission is to help you create the ...

Focus Staff

Travel RN Medical-Surgical/Telemetry

Rochester, NY · On-site

$1.9K - $2.7K/wk

Focus Staff is a traveler-first nurse and healthcare staffing agency! We prioritize the needs of our travelers, giving you complete control over your journey. Our mission is to help you create the ...

Focus Staff

Travel Medical-Surgical Telemetry RN

Rochester, NY · On-site

$1.9K - $2.7K/wk

Focus Staff is a traveler-first nurse and healthcare staffing agency! We prioritize the needs of our travelers, giving you complete control over your journey. Our mission is to help you create the ...

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All JobsFirst Nurse JobsFirst Nurse Jobs in Rochester, NY

First Nurse information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$17

$38

$64

How much do first nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for first nurse in Rochester, NY is $38.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.18 and $42.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are First Nurses?

First Nurses, often referred to as triage nurses or the first point of contact in a healthcare setting, are registered nurses responsible for assessing and prioritizing patients as they arrive in clinics or emergency departments. They perform initial evaluations, record vital signs, gather medical histories, and determine the urgency of care needed. Their quick and accurate assessments help ensure that the most critical patients receive timely treatment. First Nurses play a crucial role in patient safety and the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery.

What are some common challenges First Nurses face when transitioning into a new healthcare facility?

First Nurses often encounter challenges when adapting to a new healthcare facility, such as learning unique protocols, integrating with established teams, and navigating new electronic health record systems. Building rapport with colleagues and understanding the specific needs of patient populations served by the facility are also key parts of the transition. However, most organizations provide structured onboarding, mentorship, and ongoing training to help First Nurses acclimate and succeed in their roles.

What is the difference between First Nurse vs Registered Nurse?

AspectFirst NurseRegistered Nurse
CredentialsTypically requires a nursing diploma or certificateRequires an RN license, usually a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Work EnvironmentOften in community health, clinics, or as a first point of contactHospitals, clinics, long-term care, and various healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in primary care, community health, and outpatient servicesWidely employed across healthcare facilities and hospitals

First Nurses generally have basic nursing certifications and work mainly in community or outpatient settings. Registered Nurses (RNs) have advanced credentials, including licensure, and work in diverse healthcare environments. The main difference lies in their qualifications and scope of practice, with RNs typically having more responsibilities and a broader range of duties.

How to make an extra 2000 a month as a nurse?

First nurses can increase income by taking on per diem or agency shifts, which often pay higher rates, or by working overtime in their current roles. Additionally, they can pursue specialized certifications in areas like ICU or anesthesia to qualify for higher-paying positions or consider side opportunities such as telehealth or health coaching, depending on their skills and schedule.

How to find your first nursing job?

To find your first nursing job, complete a nursing degree and obtain licensure through the NCLEX exam. Gain experience through clinical rotations, internships, or entry-level positions, and prepare a professional resume highlighting your skills and certifications. Job searches can be conducted through hospital career portals, nursing job boards, and networking with healthcare professionals.

How to start a career in nursing with no experience?

To start a career as a first nurse with no experience, pursue an accredited nursing program such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and obtain the necessary licensure by passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Gaining clinical experience through internships, volunteering, or entry-level healthcare roles can also help build skills and improve job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Nurse (commonly known as a Charge Nurse or Head Nurse), you need an active RN license, clinical expertise, and experience in patient care leadership. Familiarity with healthcare management systems, electronic health records (EHRs), and scheduling software is typically required. Outstanding organizational, leadership, and communication skills help manage nursing teams and coordinate patient care. These abilities are crucial for ensuring high-quality patient outcomes, efficient team operations, and maintaining safety standards within healthcare settings.

What is a 2 year RN called?

A 2-year RN typically refers to a registered nurse who has completed an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which usually takes about two years. This credential qualifies them to take the NCLEX-RN exam and work in various healthcare settings, often with opportunities for further specialization or advancement through additional certifications or education.
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for First Nurse jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most First Nurse job openings:
First Nurse jobs near you
Travel Nurse RN - Psychiatric

Travel Nurse RN - Psychiatric

Focus Staff

Rochester, NY • On-site

$1.7K - $2.4K/wk

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Focus Staff is seeking a travel nurse RN Psychiatric for a travel nursing job in Rochester, New York.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Psychiatric
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: 08/03/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel

Focus Staff is seeking a Psychiatric Registered Nurse for a travel contract in Rochester, NY. The ideal candidate will have at least 1 year of experience in a Psych setting.

Contract Length: 13

Start Date: 08/03/2026

Shift: 3x12 Rotating

Benefits for Psychiatric RNs:

  • Health insurance

  • Vision insurance

  • Dental Insurance

  • Life insurance

  • Licensure reimbursement

  • Travel reimbursement

  • Relocation assistance

  • 401(k)

  • 401(k) matching

  • Competitive Pay

  • Referral Bonus

Requirements:

  • 1 Year of Experience, 2 Preferred

  • Valid NY RN License

  • BLS (Basic Life Support)

  • Eligible to work in the United States

About Focus Staff:

Focus Staff is a traveler-first nurse and healthcare staffing agency! We prioritize the needs of our travelers, giving you complete control over your journey. Our mission is to help you create the life you love, explore the country and do what you do best, help others.

Interested in becoming a traveler with Focus Staff? Discover why travelers choose us, apply today!

All-Star Status:

  • Dallas 100 (Multiple Years in a Row)

  • Inc. 5000

  • Certified by The Joint Commission

  • Best of Staffing Talent Satisfaction 2022

  • Best of Staffing Client Satisfaction 2022

  • Fastest-Growing US Staffing Firms 2017

If you’re seeking a Psych Registered Nurse position in Rochester, NY and are looking to work with an agency that will listen to your needs and career goals, then Focus Staff is the right place to be. We are proud of our ability to build relationships with all our healthcare professionals, whether you’re seeking travel assignments, PR or permeant positions.

We Offer:

  • Immediate Openings

  • Weekly Pay through Direct Deposits

  • Flexible Schedules

  • Day and Night Shifts Available

  • Competitive Compensation

  • Guaranteed Hours (based on employer)

  • Travel Assistance

  • Dedicated/Responsive Recruiters

  • Day One Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance

  • Generous Housing Stipend

  • 24/7 Support

  • Company Provided Housing Options

  • Referral Bonus ($600)

  • Loyalty Bonus ($1,200)

  • Discounts/Coupons to Hotels

  • Access to Jobs in all 50 States

  • Painless Credentialing Process

  • U.S.A.-based Company

  • Equal Opportunity Employer

  • Joint Commission Certified

  • Licensure Reimbursement

  • Pet-Friendly

  • Access to Discounts, Rewards, and more

Other Information:

Job City: Rochester

Shift: 3x12 Rotating

Job ID: a0xVt00000Q6K3WIAV

Focus Staff is an EEO/AA (Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action) Employer.

Estimated pay package based on bill rate at time job was posted. Bill rates can change frequently and without notice. Exact pay package may vary based on several factors, including, but not limited to, guaranteed hours, travel distance, demand, experience, etc.

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Focus Staff Job ID #a0xVt00000Q6K3WIAV. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Travel PSYCH RN - Psychiatric Registered Nurse

About Focus Staff

Your Journey, Our Focus. Travel Confidently, Care Boldly with Focus Staff.

At Focus Staff, we’re here to make your travel healthcare career rewarding, seamless, and stress-free.

Whether you’re a travel nurse, therapist, or allied health professional, we take care of the details so you can focus on what you do best — caring for others. Our mission is simple: to help healthcare heroes like you thrive, no matter where your journey takes you.

With thousands of job opportunities across all 50 states, our dedicated recruiters work closely with you to match you to the right assignment, based on what matters most to you — pay, location, benefits, or career growth.

From day one, you’ll enjoy premium benefits like medical coverage that bridges between assignments, 401K matching, travel and licensing reimbursements, and personalized housing support. Plus, our team is here for you 24/7, with clinical support available whenever you need guidance or backup.

At Focus Staff, we believe in making every assignment a smooth, comfortable, and empowering experience. Let’s make your next adventure your best one yet.


Focus Staff logo

About Focus Staff

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Focus Staff is a travel healthcare professional staffing agency. We place awesome people in awesome places across every state in the U.S. and the Virgin Islands. If you're an adventurer or a facility that needs high-quality staff, give us a shot. One promise we can unequivocally make: we'll always be totally honest and transparent. Period.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

2008

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