1

Graduate Nurse Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Graduate Nurse information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$19

$31

$44

How much do graduate nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate nurse in Riverside, CA is $31.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.82 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate nurse?

A graduate nurse is an individual who has recently completed a nursing program, such as a diploma, associate, or bachelor's degree in nursing, but has not yet obtained licensure as a registered nurse (RN). Graduate nurses typically work under the supervision of licensed nurses while they prepare for and take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). This transitional phase allows them to gain practical experience and apply their academic knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. Once they pass the licensing exam, they become fully qualified registered nurses.

What does a graduate nurse do?

As a graduate nurse (GN), your job is to work in a nursing department while pursuing your certification as a registered nurse (RN). This is a transitional status between nursing student and RN, and most GNs receive full accreditation within six months of graduating from college. Your primary responsibilities in this position include almost anything a regular nurse may do, including providing health care in areas like surgery, adult medicine, neonatal care, or an emergency department. The main difference between this and regular nursing work is that graduate nurses must be supervised by a registered nurse when providing care to a patient. This supervision is mandatory in all states.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Nurse, you need a solid understanding of nursing fundamentals, clinical procedures, and patient care, supported by a nursing degree and successful completion of the NCLEX exam. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), basic medical equipment, and hospital protocols is typically required. Strong communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills help Graduate Nurses adapt to fast-paced environments and provide compassionate care. These competencies ensure safe, effective patient care and smooth integration into healthcare teams as new professionals.

What kinds of support and mentorship can a graduate nurse expect during their first year on the job?

Graduate Nurses typically receive structured support through orientation programs, preceptorships, and regular check-ins with experienced nurses or educators. Most hospitals assign a preceptor or mentor who provides guidance, feedback, and assistance as new graduates transition from academic learning to hands-on clinical practice. This support helps ease the common challenges of adapting to shift work, managing patient loads, and building confidence in clinical skills. Participating in these programs fosters professional growth and helps Graduate Nurses integrate smoothly into the healthcare team.

What is the difference between Graduate Nurse vs Registered Nurse?

AspectGraduate NurseRegistered Nurse
CredentialsCompletion of nursing degree, eligible for licensureLicensed and registered with nursing board
Work EnvironmentSupervised clinical settings, training rolesIndependent practice in hospitals, clinics, community
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles, training programsFull professional roles across healthcare settings
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry requirements, trainingJob responsibilities, career progression

In summary, a Graduate Nurse is an individual who has completed their nursing education and is preparing to become licensed, often working under supervision. A Registered Nurse has obtained licensure and can practice independently, taking on full responsibilities in various healthcare environments.

What can you do as a graduate nurse?

A graduate nurse can provide basic patient care, assist with medical procedures, monitor patient conditions, and support healthcare teams under supervision. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or community settings and may pursue certifications to specialize in areas like pediatrics or emergency care.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Nurse jobs in Riverside, CA?

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

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Nurse jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Graduate Nurse jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Nurse jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Nurse jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Graduate Nurse jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Graduate Nurse job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Nurse job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,481 per year, or $31 per hour.

Registered Nurse I 12hr (Nights)

KPC GLOBAL MEDICAL CENTERS INC.

Santa Ana, CA โ€ข On-site

$43.48 - $65.21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

The posted pay scale represents the range the Company reasonably expects to pay candidates for this position. The actual wage for this position may depend on factors such as experience and education, specific skills and abilities, alignment with similar internal candidates, marketplace factors, an applicable collective bargaining agreement, and Company business practices.

The Registered Nurse delivers professional nursing care to the patient whose needs range from uncomplicated to highly complex. Establishes a helping relationship using a holistic approach. The RN ensures quality and appropriateness of care for all age groups in the unit-specific patient population to include neonates, children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. Coordinates care planning with other disciplines.

Requirements:


  1. Graduate nurse of an accredited school of nursing – BSN or ASN required
  2. Registered Nurse, licensed in the state. CA RN LICENSE & BLS card
  3. Minimum 1 year experience in acute care


Benefits:

  • Medical, dental and vision coverage is provided for all full time and part time employees*
  • Medical is 100% employer paid including dependents*
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Basic Life and AD&D
  • 401k plan with company match
  • Generous PTO plan*
  • Pet Insurance Discount Program*
  • Employee Discount Program*
    *Per diem staff ineligible  



KPC Health logo

About KPC Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

KPC Health has an integrated approach to serving the people of Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange County. Our acute care medical centers provide high quality, comprehensive and affordable healthcare for the entire family. For us, healthcare is not just about caring for our patients, but also about investing in the people throughout our communities. We are one team with one mission and that mission is for all our patients, and their families to Enjoy Life in Great Health.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Ana, CA, US

Year founded

2004

Social media