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Nurse Residency Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Robust RN triage coverage during after-hours and weekends * Dedicated Marketing Representative: Expertise to help build not only your patient panel but also promote the new residency program and ...

The Residency program also includes informal, one-on-one meetings at scheduled intervals throughout the program to provide additional support and to monitor the nurse residents' progress. Residents ...

The Residency program also includes informal, one-on-one meetings at scheduled intervals throughout the program to provide additional support and to monitor the nurse residents' progress. Residents ...

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Nurse Residency Program information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$88.6K

$129.3K

How much do nurse residency program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for nurse residency program in California is $88,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,100.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nurse residency program?

A Nurse Residency Program is a structured transition program designed for newly graduated nurses who are entering clinical practice for the first time. The program typically provides additional training, mentorship, and support during the first year of employment to help new nurses build confidence and competence in their roles. Nurse residency programs often include classroom education, hands-on clinical experience, and opportunities for professional development. These programs aim to ease the transition from student to professional nurse, reduce turnover, and improve patient care outcomes.

What is the difference between Nurse Residency Program vs Registered Nurse?

AspectNurse Residency ProgramRegistered Nurse
CredentialsNewly licensed nurses with a state licenseLicensed nurses with active RN license
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, healthcare facilities during trainingFull-time staff in various healthcare settings
PurposeTransition from student to professional nurse with structured supportProvide patient care independently

The Nurse Residency Program is a structured training and transition program for newly licensed nurses, focusing on skill development and mentorship. In contrast, a Registered Nurse is a licensed professional providing direct patient care. The program prepares nurses for independent practice, while RNs are already practicing professionals. Both roles are essential in healthcare, but the program is a stepping stone for new nurses entering the workforce.

What types of support and mentorship can new nurses expect during a nurse residency program?

Nurse Residency Programs typically offer comprehensive support through structured mentorship, preceptorship, and regular check-ins with experienced nursing staff. New nurses often participate in group learning sessions, skills workshops, and debriefings to discuss clinical experiences and challenges. This supportive environment helps bridge the gap between academic training and independent practice, allowing residents to build confidence, refine clinical skills, and adapt to the fast-paced healthcare setting. The collaborative nature of the program also encourages peer support and interdisciplinary teamwork, preparing nurses for long-term success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a nurse residency program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Nurse Residency Program, you need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), active RN licensure, and a solid grasp of clinical fundamentals. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), basic life support (BLS) certification, and common hospital protocols is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and resilience are crucial soft skills for adapting to the transition from student to practicing nurse. These competencies ensure new nurses can provide safe, effective patient care while building confidence and integrating into healthcare teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nurse Residency Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of Nurse Residency Program jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Nurse Residency Program jobs in California?

For Nurse Residency Program jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nurse Residency Program jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Nurse Residency Program jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Nurse Residency Program jobs?

Cities in California with the most Nurse Residency Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Nurse Residency Program job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,559 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

RN Education Program Site Coordinator Experienced

Dominican Hospital

Santa Cruz, CA

$89.90 - $114.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

The Site Clinical Coordinator (SCC) collaborates with the Nurse Residency Program Director, facility, market and Division leaders, and CommonSpirit Health National Nurse Residency Program Leadership to provide site-level leadership, coordination, oversight, development, evaluation and continuous program improvement for the nurse residency program and its outcomes. The site coordinator provides support and collaborative oversight representing the nurse residency program at the facility. The site coordinator, in partnership with the director, is responsible for the maintaining standardization of the nurse residency program, achievement and maintenance of residency program accreditation, and ensures nurse residents are supported in their transition to practice, satisfied, and retained.

Job Requirements

Required:

  • Bachelors Of Science Nursing and Minimum of 3 years clinical experience in the acute care setting, upon hire and
  • Minimum of 2 years clinical teaching experience and
  • Registered Nurse: CA, upon hire

Preferred:

  • Masters Of Science Nursing, upon hire
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1941, Dignity Health - Dominican Hospital is a 188-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Santa Cruz, California. Serving over 80,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including heart care, orthopedics, and a Family Birthing Center. Additionally, Dominican Hospital has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. It is a Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Center, and has been awarded the AMA/ASA’s Get the Guidelines - Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement, recognizing the hospital’s commitment to providing the best stroke care.

One Community. One Mission. One California 


Pay Range
$89.90 - $114.50 /hour