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Graduate Rn Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

Per diem and office coverage assignments * Long-term opportunities for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year Whether you are an experienced nurse looking for flexibility or a new graduate RN seeking ...

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Graduate Rn information

See New Jersey salary details

$23

$30

$42

How much do graduate rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate rn in New Jersey is $30.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.36 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

What can I do as a new graduate registered nurse?

As a new graduate registered nurse, you can work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities, providing patient care under supervision. You may start in entry-level roles like staff nurse or patient care associate, and gaining experience can lead to specialization or advancement. Obtaining necessary licensure and developing skills in communication, critical thinking, and clinical procedures are essential for success.

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Rn jobs in NJ?

For Graduate Rn jobs in NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Graduate Rn job openings in New Jersey as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,207 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

RN Residency Program (RN) RWJBarnabas Health Care System

RWJBarnabas Health

Montclair, NJ • On-site

$46.90 - $49.28/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Provide clinical training and support to new graduate nurses through orientation, mentorship, and professional development sessions.

  • Assign new graduate nurses to specialty areas for hands-on training and ensure they complete foundational courses relevant to their practice area.

  • Support the application of professional accountability, ethical practice, and focus on patient safety and quality care during the transition to professional nursing.


RWJBarnabas Health rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 332 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Title: RN

Location: Various Locations

Department: Nursing

Req#: 44388

Status: Full-Time

Shift: Day

Pay Range: $46.90 - $49.28 per hour

Pay Transparency:

The above reflects the anticipated hourly wage range for this position if hired to work in New Jersey.

The compensation offered to the candidate selected for the position will depend on several factors, including the candidate's educational background, skills and professional experience.

Position Overview -  RWJBarnabas Health is seeking passionate, newly graduated Registered Nurses to join our premier New Graduate RN Residency Program.

RWJBarnabas Health is dedicated to the successful transition into practice of all new graduate registered nurses. The programs consist of nursing and clinical orientation followed by Professional Development sessions designed to support new nurses as they adapt to nursing practice. Participants are assigned to a registered nurse on staff who serves as a preceptor to impart valuable insights into a nurse’s caseload and the day-to-day responsibilities. Mentorship, support, and group meetings continue throughout the year to provide a solid foundation and reinforce skills for new nurses. Nurse residents are hired directly into specialty areas, affording them a unique opportunity for hands-on training in their desired area of nursing. The new graduate RNs are enrolled in Foundation Courses, which provide an enhanced didactic curriculum for the specialty they will be practicing in. The program is also PTAP Accredited with Distinction by ANCC

  • Location: Multiple RWJBH facilities across New Jersey
  • Cohorts Available (ongoing): March, June, September and December with variable Day or Night Shifts

Available Specialty Tracks (dependent on site)

  • Medical/Surgical, Telemetry, ICU, ED, Labor and Delivery, OR, NICU, Pediatrics, Mother/Baby and Behavioral Health

Key Responsibilities & Program Expectations

The RWJBarnabas Health New Graduate RN Residency program is a one-year program that provides New Graduate RN’s with a safe, caring, supportive and robust learning environment.  Allowing the new graduate nurse to gain clinical competency and achieve transition from student to professional practice, it includes the following:

  • Preceptor and relationship-guided new graduate transition program.
  • Continuing education and ongoing enhancement of professional development.
  • Specialty specific Foundational Courses developed to reflect scope and standards of practice.
  • Application of professional accountability and ethical practice inherent in the role of the registered nurse.
  • Recognition of the effects of skilled nursing practice on patient safety, quality and satisfaction.
  • Self-care focus to a maintain a safe and fulfilling nursing practice for both the nurse and patient.
  • Mentorship through your first year and beyond

Required Qualifications

  • Education: Graduate of an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
  • Licensure: Active, unencumbered New Jersey Registered Nurse (RN) license prior to your official date of hire.
  • Certifications: Current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers from the American Heart Association.
  • Experience: Less than 6 months of acute care nursing

Total Rewards (Benefits & Perks)

At RWJBarnabas Health, our market-competitive package supports your physical, emotional, social, and financial health:

  • Competitive Hourly Pay: plus generous evening/night shift differentials.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision insurance with access to RWJBH's world-class doctors and facilities at low-to-no cost.
  • Financial Future: 401(k) retirement plan with an employer match.
  • Continuing Education: Tuition reimbursement programs to support your progression to a BSN or advanced certifications.
  • Lifestyle Perks: Employee discounts on travel, entertainment, fitness memberships, and retail.

*Note: Pay rate may vary slightly depending on the specific facility and educational background.


What RWJBarnabas Health employees say

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RWJBarnabas Health logo

About RWJBarnabas Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey’s largest integrated health care delivery system, providing treatment and services to more than three million patients each year. Throughout RWJBarnabas Health, our dedicated physicians, nurses, and health professionals are committed to providing the highest quality of patient care and health education to the community and region. We aim to truly make a unique impact in local communities throughout New Jersey. From vastly improving the health of local residents to creating educational and career opportunities, this combination greatly benefits the state. We understand the growing and evolving needs of residents in New Jersey - whether that be enhancing the coordination for treating complex health conditions or improving community health through local programs and education.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Orange, NJ, US

Year founded

2015