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New Graduate Rn Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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New Graduate Rn information

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How much do new graduate rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for new graduate rn in Minnesota is $43.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.98 and $50.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a New Graduate RN, you need a nursing degree, RN licensure, and a solid grasp of clinical fundamentals such as patient assessment and care planning. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), medication administration systems, and basic clinical equipment is typically required. Strong soft skills like communication, adaptability, and teamwork help new nurses transition smoothly and build rapport with patients and colleagues. These skills and qualifications are vital for delivering safe, effective patient care and integrating successfully into healthcare teams.

What are some common challenges faced by new graduate RNs during their transition into a clinical setting?

New graduate RNs often face challenges such as managing a full patient load for the first time, adapting to fast-paced environments, and building confidence in their clinical decision-making skills. Balancing multiple priorities, communicating effectively with interdisciplinary teams, and learning hospital protocols can also be demanding. Many hospitals offer residency programs, mentorship, and ongoing training to help new grads adjust and succeed in these areas.

What are New Graduate RNs?

New Graduate RNs are registered nurses who have recently completed their nursing education and passed the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. They are in the early stages of their nursing careers and often participate in residency or orientation programs to transition from student to professional nurse. These positions provide new graduates with structured support, mentorship, and hands-on experience as they develop confidence and competence in different clinical settings.

What is the difference between New Graduate Rn vs Registered Nurse?

AspectNew Graduate RnRegistered Nurse
CredentialsState-specific RN license, possibly NCLEX completionLicensed RN with experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level hospital, clinic, or long-term careVaries from entry-level to experienced roles in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, healthcare facilities hiring new gradsBroader roles including specialized and experienced positions

The main difference is that a New Graduate Rn is an entry-level nurse just starting their career, typically with a recent license, while a Registered Nurse refers to any licensed nurse with varying levels of experience. New grads often work under supervision and are in the process of gaining hands-on experience, whereas RNs with experience may hold more responsibilities and specialized roles.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for New Graduate Rn jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most New Graduate Rn job openings:
Graduate Nurse Residency Program

Graduate Nurse Residency Program

Centra Care

Paynesville, MN • On-site

$42.86 - $71.51/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


CentraCare rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

489th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Graduate Nurse Residency Program

CentraCare is committed to helping new graduate RNs transition confidently from student to professional nurse through our highly respected and nationally accredited Graduate Nurse Residency Program. Our year-long, paid residency program provides monthly training, mentoring, and support designed to shape you into an exceptional nurse. This program is designed for nurses with less than 1 year of RN experience and is available at: Paynesville, Melrose, Sauk Centre, Long Prairie, Rice Memorial (Willmar), and St. Cloud Hospital (5x Magnet®-designated).

What to know:

  • Apply during your final semester or after graduation. Upcoming December 2026 graduates will be considered in the fall.
  • You'll be considered for all new grad RN openings at CentraCare by applying to this application.
  • Include a current resume with your application.
  • Select your top 3 units of interest on the application. View units who hire new grads here. Some units may require additional experience or education, and not all units have current openings.
  • We hire and start new grad RNs year-round based on unit availability.

Here's what you need to qualify:

  • Must be a graduate of an accredited nursing program and have a Minnesota RN license by your start date.
  • Less than 1 year of RN experience.
  • BSN is required to be completed within 3 years of hire (St. Cloud only).

Schedule:

  • Shift schedules and FTEs (Full-Time Equivalents) vary by unit and are determined at the time of offer based on availability.
  • Day/night rotations and straight night shifts are commonly available. Day/evening rotations or straight evening shifts may be offered occasionally, based on unit needs.
  • Shifts may be 8 or 12 hours in length. Weekend requirements are typically every other weekend or every third weekend, depending on availability.

Pay: (based on experience and degree)

  • Associate/Diploma in nursing starting at $42.86 per hour
  • Bachelor's in nursing starting at $44.34 per hour
  • Master's in nursing starting at $45.82 per hour
  • Pay range: $42.86 - $71.51 per hour
  • Associate in nursing starting at $43.24 per hour
  • Bachelor's in nursing starting at $43.61 per hour
  • Master's in nursing starting at $45.79 per hour
  • Pay range: $43.24 - $61.76 per hour

Benefits:

  • Full-time benefits: Medical, dental, PTO, retirement, employee discounts and more!
  • Tuition reimbursement and college grant programs available

Bonus Information:

  • New hires can earn a bonus of $3,500 to $5,000, depending on the unit
  • Relocation pay of $5,000 is available to eligible candidates

CentraCare has made a commitment to diversity in its workforce and all individuals, including, but not limited to, individuals with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. CentraCare is an EEO/AA employer.


What CentraCare employees say

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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About CentraCare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CentraCare has grown to meet the needs of the communities and is now one of the largest health systems in Minnesota. This means we are able to offer the latest advancements in care, technology and treatments close to home. But what makes CentraCare special is not our facilities or technology. It is our people. We live in the communities we serve. We are neighbors, friends and family. And when you need us, we are here for you.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

St. Cloud, MN, US

Year founded

1886