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Graduate Rn Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

UPMC Mercy

Registered Nurse - OR

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

... graduate RNs (paid over 3 years; prorated for eligible roles) * Flexible Scheduling - 8, 10, or 12-hour shifts after orientation * Up to 5.5 Weeks PTO + 7 Paid Holidays annually * Tuition ...

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All JobsGraduate Rn JobsGraduate Rn Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Graduate Rn information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$22

$29

$40

How much do graduate rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate rn in Pittsburgh, PA is $29.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.15 and $29.62 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 cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Graduate Rn jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Graduate Rn job openings:
Graduate Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Rn job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,441 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
GRADUATE NURSE, RN - SUMMER 2026 - ALL LOCATIONS

GRADUATE NURSE, RN - SUMMER 2026 - ALL LOCATIONS

INDEPENDENCE HEALTH SYSTEM INC

Mount Pleasant, PA • On-site

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Graduate Nurse, RN - Summer 2026 - All Locations

This position is for RN graduate nurses who are graduating in summer 2026. Sign on bonuses for select units, full time benefits, and tuition and loan assistance.

Job Summary: A graduate an approved program by the State Board of Nursing, who has not completed examination for licensure is responsible for the complete nursing care of a group of patients under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse. The graduate nurse is responsible to the Nurse Manager and accountable to the patient. The Graduate Nurse will be enrolled into the Nurse Residency Program, a twelve-month program that progresses through three phases: orientation; interactive classroom education; and independent self-directed learning. Graduate Nurses are given the opportunity to be paired with a nurse mentor for continued one-on-one support. This program is designed as a series of learning and clinical practice experiences to assist newly licensed nurses as they transition from the student role to clinical practitioner.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Ensures that assessment of the patient and the direct and indirect patient care delivered is in accordance with the PA Nurse Practice Act, hospital policies, procedures and protocols and other professional standards of care.
  • Develops an educational process for the provision and coordination of patient care activities that promote and maintain health, fosters self-care and improves outcomes.
  • Maintains a collaborative relationship with physicians and other health care providers to achieve desired patient outcomes and assure a continuous flow of patient care.
  • Participates in unit performance improvement activities designed to enhance the quality of patient care and customer service.
  • Demonstrates leadership by utilizing the concepts inherent to the practice of the professional nurse.
  • Assists in the department's compliance with state, The Joint Commission (TJC), OSHA and other regulatory agencies.
  • Provides for patient safety in compliance with hospital and nursing department policies.
  • Limitations of Practice: Always under the direct supervision of an RN. May not accept verbal or phone orders from a physician. All physician orders must be checked by an RN. Must have approval by Nurse Manager/Preceptor before giving shift report.
  • After successful completion of the IV skills lab and competency validation, the Graduate Nurse may administer IV push medications, IV fluids and blood.

Specialty Job Functions: Other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

  • Graduate of an accredited Nursing Program required.
  • Strong leadership ability, good organizational skills, independent and critical thinking skills, sound judgment, and knowledge of legal aspects and liability of nursing practice.
  • Strong ability to communicate complex and/or controversial topics and concepts to a wide and diverse audience.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Nursing preferred.

License, Certification & Clearances:

  • Current licensure to practice under a Temporary Practice Permit as a Graduate Registered Nurse in the State of Pennsylvania required.
  • Current Basic Life Support (BLS) approved curriculum of the American Heart Association (CPR and AED) program required.
  • Act 33 with renewal.
  • Act 34 with renewal.
  • Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal.
  • Graduate nurse must successfully complete licensure exam within six months of graduation.

Supervisory Responsibilities: This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities, but may serve as a coach and mentor for other positions in the department.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

  • Incumbents will be scheduled based on operational need (rotate shifts, standby, on-call, etc.).
  • Travel may be expected locally between Independence Health locations.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Independence Health and its affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. It is their policy to prohibit discrimination of any type and to afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or genetic information, or any other classification protected by law. Independence Health and its affiliated companies will comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

Disclaimer: This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Moreover, duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Work Environment:

Effective March 2020 or during pandemic: goggles, face shield and mask are required according to CDC guidelines

When lift requirement is in excess of 50#, lift assistance (2 person) and/or transfer device is required.Essential – Absolute Necessity.Marginal – Minimal Necessity.Constantly – 5.5 to 8 hours or more or 200 reps/shift.Frequently – 2.5 to 5.5 hours or more or 32-200 reps/shift.Occasionally – 0.25 to 2.5 hours or 2-32 reps/shift.Rarely – Less than 0.25 hours or less than 2 reps/shift. - Physical Condition - Essential - Marginal - Constantly - Frequently - Occasionally - Rarely - Never

Extreme Heat - x

Extreme Cold - x

Heights - x

Confined Spaces - x

Extreme Noise(>85dB) - x

Mechanical Hazards - x

Use of Vibrating Tools - x

Operates Vehicle (Company) - x

Operates Heavy Equipment - x

Use of Lifting/Transfer Devices - x - x

Rotates All Shifts - x - x

8 Hours Shifts - x - x

10-12 Hours Shifts - x - x

On-Call - x - x

Overtime(+8/hrs/shift; 40/hrs/wk) - x - x

Travel Between Sites - x

Direct Patient Care - x - x

Respirator Protective Equipment - x - x

Eye Protection - x - x

Head Protection (hard hat) - x

Hearing Protection - x

Hand Protection - x - x

Feet, Toe Protection - x

Body Protection - x - x

Latex Exposure - x - x

Solvent Exposure - x

Paint (direct use) Exposure - x

Dust (sanding) Exposure - x

Ethylene Oxide Exposure - x

Cytotoxic (Chemo) Exposure - Chemo Units - Chemo Units - X all other

Blood/Body Fluid Exposure - x - x

Chemicals (direct use) Exposure - x - x

Mist Exposure - x

Wax Stripper (direct use) - x

Non-Ionizing Radiation Exposure - x

Ionizing Radiation Exposure - x

Laser Exposure - x

Physical Demands:

When lift requirement is in excess of 50#, lift assistance (2 person) and/or transfer device is required.Essential – Absolute Necessity.Marginal – Minimal Necessity.Constantly – 5.5 to 8 hours or more or 200 reps/shift.Frequently – 2.5 to 5.5 hours or more or 32-200 reps/shift.Occasionally – 0.25 to 2.5 hours or 2-32 reps/shift.Rarely – Less than 0.25 hours or less than 2 reps/shift. - Physical Condition - Essential - Marginal - Constantly - Frequently - Occasionally - Rarely - Never

Bending (Stooping) - x - x

Sitting - x - x

Walking - x - x

Climbing Stairs - x - x

Climbing Ladders - x

Standing - x - x

Kneeling - x - x

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