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Graduate Rn Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sutter Health

Clinical Nurse II

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$52.37 - $75.93/hr

EDUCATION Graduate of an accredited school of nursing. CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE RN-Registered Nurse of California BLS-Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider DEPARTMENT REQUIRED CERTIFICATION AND ...

Sutter Health

Clinical Nurse II

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$52.37 - $75.93/hr

EDUCATION Graduate of an accredited school of nursing. CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE RN-Registered Nurse of California BLS-Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider DEPARTMENT REQUIRED CERTIFICATION AND ...

Sutter Health

Clinical Nurse II

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$52.37 - $75.93/hr

EDUCATION Graduate of an accredited school of nursing. CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE RN-Registered Nurse of California BLS-Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider DEPARTMENT REQUIRED CERTIFICATION AND ...

California Care Services

LVN

Ventura, CA · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

Implements plan of care initiated by the registered nurse. * Provides accurate and timely ... Graduate of an accredited practical nurse or vocational nursing program. * Has three years nursing ...

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All JobsGraduate Rn JobsGraduate Rn Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

Graduate Rn information

See Santa Barbara, CA salary details

$25

$33

$46

How much do graduate rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate rn in Santa Barbara, CA is $33.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.95 and $33.99 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 Santa Barbara, CA are hiring for Graduate Rn jobs? Cities near Santa Barbara, CA with the most Graduate Rn job openings:
Graduate Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Rn job openings in Santa Barbara, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% As Needed, 66% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,273 per year, or $33.3 per hour.
Pre-Op/PACU RN - Full Time

Pre-Op/PACU RN - Full Time

Surgery Partners

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Surgery Partners rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

189th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

JOB TITLE: Registered Nurse Pre Op & PACU - Full Time
GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES:
To provide excellence in patient care that builds confidence, loyalty and trust with our patients, patients' families and the community. To understand and carry out Surgery Partners mission and vision statement by adhering to world class service standards. To strive to communicate and interact with others in a professional, responsible, cooperative and positive manner at all times. To act as a resource person to manage and utilize personnel in an effective and appropriate manner, and complete tasks assigned within the time frame.
REQUIREMENTS:
  • Graduate of Accredited School of Nursing; current RN License.
  • CPR required.
  • ACLS required.
  • Minimum one year of clinical experience OR willing to train new grad who is motivated
Pre Op
Benefits:
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account with an employer contribution
  • Life Insurance
  • PTO
  • 401(k) retirement plan with a company match
  • And more!

Equal Employment Opportunity & Work Force Diversity
Our organization is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, creed, sex, religion, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, parental status, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic testing results or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state or local laws. This practice relates to all personnel matters such as compensation, benefits, training, promotions, transfers, layoffs, etc. Furthermore, our organization is committed to going beyond the legal requirements of equal employment opportunity to take positive actions which ensure diversity in the workplace and result in a multi-cultural organization.
Pre-OP
PACU
Postop
Registered Nurse
RN
Preop & PACU
Pre/Post Op
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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