ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

New Grad Rn Nicu Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mission Hospital

RN - NICU (Neonatal ICU)

Evanston, IL · On-site

$2.2K/wk

Details Client Name Evanston Hospital (AKA NorthShore Evanston Hospital) Job Type Travel Offering Nursing Profession RN Specialty NICU (Neonatal ICU) Job ID 37606526 Job Title RN - NICU (Neonatal ICU ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsNew Grad Rn Nicu JobsNew Grad Rn Nicu Jobs in Chicago, IL

New Grad Rn Nicu information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$643

$2.5K

$3.9K

How much do new grad rn nicu jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average weekly pay for new grad rn nicu in Chicago, IL is $2,523.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,921.15 and $3,071.15 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to make $300,000 as a nurse?

To earn $300,000 as a new graduate RN in the NICU, you typically need to work in high-paying regions, gain specialized certifications, and accumulate significant overtime or shift differentials. Advancing your skills, pursuing additional certifications like Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP), and working in high-demand facilities can also increase earning potential. Achieving this income level usually requires several years of experience and strategic career choices.

What are some common challenges new graduate RNs face when starting in the NICU, and how can they overcome them?

New graduate RNs in the NICU often face challenges such as adapting to the highly specialized care required for critically ill or premature infants, managing the emotional impact of caring for vulnerable patients, and learning to communicate effectively with families during stressful situations. It’s important to seek out mentorship from experienced NICU nurses, actively participate in unit orientation programs, and take advantage of continuing education opportunities. Building strong relationships with your interdisciplinary team and asking questions when needed can also help ease the transition and build confidence.

What is a New Grad RN in the NICU?

A New Grad RN in the NICU is a recently graduated registered nurse who works in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. These nurses provide specialized care to premature and critically ill newborns under the supervision of experienced nurses and medical staff. Their responsibilities include monitoring vital signs, administering medications, assisting with procedures, and supporting families during a challenging time. New grad RNs often participate in orientation or residency programs to build their skills and confidence in this high-acuity environment.

How much do NICU nurses make new grad?

New graduate NICU nurses typically start with a salary ranging from $55,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on location, hospital, and shift differentials. Entry-level NICU nurses often need certification such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) and may work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends.

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

New graduate RNs can reach a $100,000 salary by gaining experience in high-paying specialties such as ICU or NICU, obtaining certifications like CCRN, working in regions with higher pay rates, and taking on overtime or night shifts. Developing strong clinical skills and pursuing advanced certifications can also increase earning potential over time.

What is the difference between New Grad Rn Nicu vs Registered Nurse Pediatric?

AspectNew Grad Rn NicuRegistered Nurse Pediatric
CertificationsRN license, NICU-specific trainingRN license, Pediatric care training
Work EnvironmentNeonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)Pediatric wards, clinics, or hospitals
Employer & IndustryHospitals, NICUs, neonatal care centersPediatric hospitals, clinics, outpatient centers

New Grad Rn Nicu and Registered Nurse Pediatric roles both require an RN license, but they differ mainly in work environment and specialized training. New Grad Rn Nicu focuses on neonatal intensive care, while Registered Nurse Pediatric works with children in broader settings. Both roles serve different patient populations but share core nursing skills.

Can a new grad nurse be a NICU nurse?

A new graduate registered nurse (RN) can become a NICU nurse, but typically they need to gain experience in critical care or neonatal units first. Many NICU positions require certification such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) and demonstrate strong clinical skills, so new grads often start in related pediatric or intensive care roles before transitioning to NICU nursing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a New Grad RN in the NICU, and why are they important?

To thrive as a New Grad RN in the NICU, you need a solid foundation in neonatal nursing care, basic life support (BLS), and a registered nursing degree and license. Familiarity with neonatal monitoring equipment, electronic health records (EHRs), and certifications like Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) are typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and emotional resilience help you excel when supporting fragile infants and their families. These skills ensure safe, effective care and foster trust with families in a high-stakes environment.
What are popular job titles related to New Grad Rn Nicu jobs in Chicago, IL? For New Grad Rn Nicu jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching New Grad Rn Nicu jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for New Grad Rn Nicu jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for New Grad Rn Nicu jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most New Grad Rn Nicu job openings:
New Grad Rn Nicu jobs near you
Infographic showing various New Grad Rn Nicu job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $131,231 per year, or $63.1 per hour.
Travel Nurse RN - NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care

Travel Nurse RN - NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care

Focus Staff

Park Ridge, IL • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Focus Staff is seeking a travel nurse RN NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care for a travel nursing job in Park Ridge, Illinois.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: 08/10/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours, nights
  • Employment Type: Travel

Focus Staff is seeking a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse for a travel contract in Park Ridge, IL. The ideal candidate will have at least 1 year of experience in a NICU setting.

Contract Length: 13 Weeks

Start Date: 08/10/2026

Shift: 3x12 Nights

Benefits for Travel NICU RNs:

  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Licensure reimbursement
  • Travel reimbursement
  • Relocation assistance
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive pay
  • Referral bonus
  • Holiday bonus

Requirements:

  • 1 Year of Experience, 2 Preferred
  • Valid IL RN License
  • BLS (Basic Life Support)
  • ACLS
  • Eligible to work in the United States

About Focus Staff:

Focus Staff is a traveler-first nurse and healthcare staffing agency! We prioritize the needs of our travelers, giving you complete control over your journey. Our mission is to help you create the life you love, explore the country and do what you do best, help others.

Interested in becoming a traveler with Focus Staff? Discover why travelers choose us, apply today!

All-Star Status:

  • Dallas 100 (Multiple Years in a Row)
  • Inc. 5000
  • Middle Market 50
  • Certified by The Joint Commission
  • Best of Staffing Talent Satisfaction 2022
  • Best of Staffing Client Satisfaction 2022
  • Fastest-Growing US Staffing Firms 2017

If you’re seeking a Travel Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse position in Park Ridge, IL and are looking to work with an agency that will listen to your needs and career goals, then Focus Staff is the right place to be. We are proud of our ability to build relationships with all our healthcare professionals, whether you’re seeking travel assignments, PR or permanent positions.

We Offer:

  • Immediate Openings
  • Weekly Pay through Direct Deposits
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Day and Night Shifts Available
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Guaranteed Hours (based on employer)
  • Travel Assistance
  • Dedicated/Responsive Recruiters
  • Day One Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
  • Generous Housing Stipend
  • 24/7 Support
  • Company Provided Housing Options
  • Referral Bonus ($600)
  • Loyalty Bonus ($1,200)
  • Discounts/Coupons to Hotels
  • Access to Jobs in all 50 States
  • Painless Credentialing Process
  • U.S.A.-based Company
  • Equal Opportunity Employer
  • Joint Commission Certified
  • Licensure Reimbursement
  • Pet-Friendly
  • Access to Discounts, Rewards, and more

Other Information:

Job Title: Travel Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Nurse

Employment Time: Contract/Travel

Date Posted: 07/15/2026 09:57:51 AM

Valid Through: 11/07/2026

Job City: Park Ridge

Job State: IL

Job Country: USA

Shift: 3x12 Nights

Job ID: a0xVt00000QkhnoIAB

Hiring Organization: Focus Staff

Focus Staff is an EEO/AA (Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action) Employer.

Estimated pay package based on bill rate at time job was posted. Bill rates can change frequently and without notice. Exact pay package may vary based on several factors, including, but not limited to, guaranteed hours, travel distance, demand, experience, etc.

Traveling Registered Nurse, Travel, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, RN – Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Contract, Travel, Traveling Nursing, Assignment, Registered Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit RN, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Travel Nurse, Healthcare RN, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Nursing, Nurse RN, RN Nurse, Contract RN, RN – NICU, NICU

Focus Staff Job ID #a0xVt00000QkhnoIAB. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Travel NICU RN - Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse

About Focus Staff

Your Journey, Our Focus. Travel Confidently, Care Boldly with Focus Staff.

At Focus Staff, we’re here to make your travel healthcare career rewarding, seamless, and stress-free.

Whether you’re a travel nurse, therapist, or allied health professional, we take care of the details so you can focus on what you do best — caring for others. Our mission is simple: to help healthcare heroes like you thrive, no matter where your journey takes you.

With thousands of job opportunities across all 50 states, our dedicated recruiters work closely with you to match you to the right assignment, based on what matters most to you — pay, location, benefits, or career growth.

From day one, you’ll enjoy premium benefits like medical coverage that bridges between assignments, 401K matching, travel and licensing reimbursements, and personalized housing support. Plus, our team is here for you 24/7, with clinical support available whenever you need guidance or backup.

At Focus Staff, we believe in making every assignment a smooth, comfortable, and empowering experience. Let’s make your next adventure your best one yet.


Focus Staff logo

About Focus Staff

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Focus Staff is a travel healthcare professional staffing agency. We place awesome people in awesome places across every state in the U.S. and the Virgin Islands. If you're an adventurer or a facility that needs high-quality staff, give us a shot. One promise we can unequivocally make: we'll always be totally honest and transparent. Period.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

2008

View All Focus Staff Jobs

Apply