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Graduate Rn Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

New graduate RN's should apply to the New Grad Program positions for consideration in the upcoming RN new grad cohort Job Summary The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the ...

New graduate RN's should apply to the New Grad Program positions for consideration in the upcoming RN new grad cohort Job Summary The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the ...

New graduate RN's should apply to the New Grad Program positions for consideration in the upcoming RN new grad cohort Job Summary The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the ...

Job Title: Registered Nurse (RN) Location: Tucson, AZ Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent ... Whether you're a seasoned nurse or a recent graduate, this full-time opportunity offers mentorship ...

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Graduate Rn information

See Arizona salary details

$21

$27

$38

How much do graduate rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate rn in Arizona is $27.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.10 and $28.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Graduate Rn vs Registered Nurse?

AspectGraduate RnRegistered Nurse
CredentialsCompletion of nursing program, eligibility for licensureActive nursing license, full licensure
Work EnvironmentEntry-level clinical settings, training rolesFull responsibilities in hospitals, clinics
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, healthcare facilities during trainingHospitals, clinics, healthcare organizations

The main difference between a Graduate Rn and a Registered Nurse is that a Graduate Rn is a newly licensed nurse still gaining experience, often in training roles, while a Registered Nurse has full licensure and can perform all nursing duties independently. Both roles require passing the NCLEX exam, but the Graduate Rn typically has less experience and responsibilities compared to a fully licensed RN.

How to make $100,000 as a new grad nurse?

New graduate registered nurses can reach a $100,000 salary by gaining experience in high-demand specialties such as critical care or anesthesia, working in regions with higher pay scales, pursuing additional certifications, and taking on night or overtime shifts. Developing strong clinical skills and seeking roles in urban or affluent areas can also increase earning potential.

What else can I do with my RN degree?

An RN degree can lead to various career paths beyond bedside nursing, including roles in case management, health education, research, healthcare administration, and policy development. RNs can also specialize in areas such as pediatrics, oncology, or critical care, often requiring additional certifications or training. These options allow for career advancement and diversification within the healthcare field.

What is a Graduate RN?

A Graduate RN, or Graduate Registered Nurse, is an individual who has completed an accredited nursing program and earned a nursing degree but has not yet passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). This status allows them to work in a supervised capacity, often in a hospital or healthcare setting, while preparing to take the licensing exam. Graduate RNs typically transition to fully licensed Registered Nurses after passing the NCLEX-RN. Their responsibilities may be limited compared to fully licensed RNs, depending on state regulations and employer policies.

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

To thrive as a Graduate RN, you need a solid understanding of nursing fundamentals, patient assessment, and basic clinical procedures, typically supported by a nursing degree and eligibility for RN licensure. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), clinical documentation systems, and basic patient care technologies is important. Strong communication, adaptability, and a willingness to learn help Graduate RNs excel in diverse and evolving clinical environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing safe, effective care and ensuring a smooth transition from education to professional practice.

What support can Graduate RNs expect during their transition from student to professional nurse?

Graduate RNs typically receive structured support through residency or orientation programs designed to ease the transition from academic training to clinical practice. These programs often include mentorship from experienced nurses, guided hands-on experiences, and regular feedback sessions. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is encouraged to build confidence and develop clinical judgment. Most hospitals provide ongoing educational resources and opportunities for skill development to help Graduate RNs grow within the organization.

Where do new grad RNs make the most money?

New graduate registered nurses (RNs) tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas or states with competitive pay scales. Hospitals, especially those in urban centers or specialized facilities, often offer higher starting salaries to attract new grads. Salary can also vary based on certifications, shift differentials, and the local healthcare market conditions.

What can I do as a new grad RN?

As a new graduate registered nurse (RN), you can work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities. Entry-level roles often involve patient care, administering medications, and collaborating with healthcare teams. Obtaining certification in areas like Basic Life Support (BLS) and gaining clinical experience can enhance job prospects.
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Rn jobs in AZ? For Graduate Rn jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Graduate Rn job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,018 per year, or $27.9 per hour.
Registered Nurse - Behavioral Health Nights

Registered Nurse - Behavioral Health Nights

Valleywise Health System

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$34.15 - $50.37/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Valleywise Health rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Join us in shaping the future of health care.
The work is rewarding as we see measurable improvement in our patients. From the time of admission, when they are experiencing a mental health crisis, through stabilization, and ultimately, as they enter the outpatient continuum of care, we continue to support their journey toward health, wellness, and recovery. Psychiatric nurses are strong patient advocates, ensuring patients are treated with dignity and respect and receive care in a safe, secure, and therapeutic environment.
We provide holistic care in a stigma-free environment for patients who have a full array of psychiatric disorders. Working collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team fosters a healthy, cooperative environment for patients and coworkers, which is rewarding and fulfilling. Nurses love the collaborative interdisciplinary approach, teamwork, and structure a robust therapeutic program provides. The Psychiatric RN provides direct supervision to Mental Health Workers, Behavioral Health Technicians, and Health Unit Coordinators and plays a significant role in training future nurses.
As an academic medical center and part of the Creighton University Arizona Health Education Alliance, teaching is one of our passions. We support many staff members on their educational journey, including psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and nurse practitioners. We are delighted to offer many opportunities for career advancement. Working alongside students and resident physicians provides a unique and mutually fulfilling learning environment.
Valleywise Behavioral Health Center has inpatient facilities in Mesa, Phoenix, and Maryvale and is one of Arizona's largest providers of inpatient behavioral health services. We serve adolescent and adult populations. The adolescent unit is in Mesa with a 14-bed unit specializing in caring for patients ages 13 to 17. Our inpatient facilities have an extensive medical staff of psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners, with dedicated physician leadership.
Hourly Pay Rate: $34.15 - $50.37
Eligible for a night shift differential of 18% and weekend shift differential of 8% of the employee's base rate of pay.
Qualifications
Education:

  • Prefer a Bachelor's Degree or higher in Nursing.
Experience:
  • Must successfully complete the Valleywise Health New Graduate RN training program or have prior acute nursing experience demonstrating an understanding of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
  • Previous acute care hospital experience in the area for which he or she is applying for is preferred.
Certification/Licensure:
  • Must possess a current, valid AZ RN license, temporary AZ RN license, or valid compact RN licensure for current state of practice.
  • Must be in good standing with the issuing Board of Nursing.
  • Must have a CPI certification and BLS training will be provided upon hire or transfer to Behavioral Health Departments.
  • BH Unit 2 Adolescent: Must have a valid fingerprint clearance card issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety or submit a completed Affidavit at the time of hire. Must complete fingerprint clearance card application within seven (7) days of hire date. Must present actual card within ninety (90) days of applying for a fingerprint clearance card.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to work with culturally diverse people is a must.
  • Bilingual is preferred.
  • Must have excellent communication, time management, and customer service skills.
  • Requires basic computer word processing skills (e.g., formatting, editing, printing, composing email, internet searches, etc.) to navigate through an electronic medical record using a computer successfully.
  • Requires the ability to read, write, and speak effectively in English.

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