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New Grad Rn Jobs in Altoona, PA (NOW HIRING)

Registered Nurse (RN)

Hastings, PA · On-site

$28.50 - $36.50/hr

If you are a compassionate and skilled Registered Nurse (RN) looking for a new challenge, we invite you to join our team at Haida Nursing and Rehab. Apply today to become part of our dedicated team ...

Cedarwood Rehabilitation and Healthcare is now seeking a Registered Nurse Supervisor/Unit Manager - New Incentives! Our focus is quality care in a supportive and friendly environment. Our facility ...

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New Grad Rn information

See Altoona, PA salary details

$22

$29

$41

How much do new grad rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for new grad rn in Altoona, PA is $29.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.49 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a new grad RN?

A New Grad RN job is an entry-level nursing position designed for newly licensed registered nurses who have recently graduated from an accredited nursing program. These roles provide structured training, mentorship, and hands-on experience to help new nurses transition into professional practice. Many hospitals and healthcare facilities offer New Grad RN residency programs to support skill development and confidence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a new grad RN?

To thrive as a New Grad RN, you need a nursing degree, active RN licensure, and basic clinical skills in patient care and assessment. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), medication administration systems, and standard hospital equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, eagerness to learn, effective communication, and resilience help new graduates transition smoothly into professional practice. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring patient safety, adapting to fast-paced settings, and laying the foundation for a successful nursing career.

How to get a job as a new grad RN?

Some hospitals and facilities run programs designed specifically for the recent graduate. The new grad RN program may require you to have earned a specific GPA and mandate that you graduated from the program within the past year. To apply, you need to be on track to complete your bachelor’s degree and earn your license. Each program specifies the dates by which you need both to enter the program if accepted. However, you can also apply for any available RN position with the same qualifications, as it is not mandatory to complete a new grad RN program. To apply, you need proof of your license and a resume detailing your nursing history.

What are some common challenges faced by new grad RNs during their first year, and how do hospitals support them?

New Grad RNs often encounter challenges such as adjusting to shift work, managing their time efficiently, and building confidence in clinical decision-making. Many hospitals offer structured residency or orientation programs, mentorship from experienced nurses, and ongoing training to help bridge the gap between school and independent practice. Supportive team environments and regular feedback sessions are also common, helping new nurses develop critical thinking skills and adapt to the demands of patient care. These resources are designed to ease the transition, reduce stress, and cultivate professional growth in your early nursing career.

Can you get a job as a new graduate registered nurse?

New graduate registered nurses (RNs) can typically find entry-level positions in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings. Most employers require candidates to pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam and may offer orientation or residency programs to support new nurses' transition into clinical practice.

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 obtaining certification in areas like Basic Life Support (BLS) is often required. Gaining experience and developing clinical skills are key steps early in your nursing career.

Where do new graduate registered nurses make the most money?

New graduate registered nurses tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas or specialized hospital settings. Salaries can also vary based on certifications, shift differentials, and the type of healthcare facility, with some hospitals offering sign-on bonuses or additional compensation for night shifts.
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Infographic showing various New Grad Rn job openings in Altoona, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,274 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Registered Nurse - $20k SIGN-ON

Williamsburg, PA • On-site

Cove Forge Behavioral Health Center
11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Overview

Registered Nurse (RN) opportunities at Cove Forge Behavioral Health. Apply now to learn more!

*New Grad RNs welcome to apply!

Sign on Bonus ~ $20k for Full-time 

Cove Forge Behavioral Health Center, located in Williamsburg, Pennsylvania, offers comprehensive treatment for adults of all genders who are struggling with substance use disorders and certain co-occurring mental health concerns. Our facility is in the Altoona metropolitan area, about 100 miles east of Pittsburgh. Services for adults age 18 and older include detoxification, residential rehabilitation, and outpatient programming.

AVAILABLE SHIFTS/SCHEDULE

Full Time

Evening shift

3:00 pm - 11:00 pm

  • Great New Shift differentials
  • Flexibile scheduling
  • Comprehensive benefits (Medical, Vision, Dental, 401k)

We are looking for individuals who are passionate about impacting the lives of those with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health concerns. If you are interested in growth opportunities that are second to none in the industry and making a difference in the lives of people in our community, this position is right for you!

Responsibilities

REGISTERED NURSE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Provide and coordinate care by assessing patients' physical and behavioral health needs.
  • Develop and implement nursing care plans.
  • Maintain medical records and educate patients and their families about various physical and behavioral health conditions.
  • Provide nursing care and services within the standards and scope of nursing practice as defined within the state Nurse Practice Act regulations, policies, procedures, and protocols, as well as facility and corporate policies and procedures.
  • Ensure physicians' orders are legible if taken verbally and transcribed appropriately per policy and procedure.
  • Ensure patients' status is assessed on an ongoing basis and pertinent information is gathered and documented.
  • Notify physicians of significant changes in status such as difficulties with detox, medical emergency, change in medical status regarding response to medications, and related challenges.
  • Ensure that initial nursing treatment plans are completed upon admission and that all nursing treatment plans are specific to assessed needs.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and utilization of universal precautions in providing direct patient care.
  • Accurately administer medications per ordered note.
  • Document accurate count of controlled substance medication administration on required documents.
  • Complete admission and discharge processing efficiently and accurately as directed.
  • Exhibit therapeutic rapport with patients by maintaining professional boundaries, respecting personal space, giving patients direct attention, and maintaining rational detachment.
  • Provide direction or coordinate the activities of the unit as directed.
  • Communicate therapeutically and professionally with patients, visitors, co-workers, and others involved inpatient treatment.
Qualifications

EDUCATION/LICENSURE/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must have graduated from an accredited school of nursing.
  • Must possess a current Registered Nurse (RN) license as required by the state of employment or be eligible to practice nursing in accordance with state requirements
  • One year of nursing experience; previous psychiatric, mental, behavioral, or substance use nursing experience a plus
  • CPR and de-escalation and restraint certification required (training available upon hire and offered by facility).
  • First aid may be required based on state or facility requirements.

We are committed to providing equal  employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual's characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws.

AHRN

#LI-CFBH

#LI-KB2

Employment Type: FULL_TIME