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Nursing Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Posting Details Posting Summary Posting Number S00431P Position Title Nursing Instructor Position Type Adjunct Faculty Department Health Careers Essential Function Directly responsible to the ...

SUMMARY The Health Professions department is seeking a positive, supportive, and dynamic Nursing Instructor to teach a diverse community of learners. Preference will be given to candidates who are ...

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A Basic Nursing Assistant (B.N.A.) Instructor is responsible for course planning, instruction, and skills, teaching students the patient care and basic nursing skills needed to provide physical care ...

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Nursing Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.2K

$83.1K

$123.7K

How much do nursing instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for nursing instructor in Chicago, IL is $83,116.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $96,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges nursing instructors face when transitioning from clinical practice to teaching, and how can they overcome them?

Nursing Instructors often find the transition from clinical practice to classroom teaching challenging due to differences in communication styles, curriculum development, and student assessment methods. Adapting to diverse student learning needs and managing classroom dynamics can also be demanding. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to seek mentorship from experienced educators, participate in faculty development programs, and actively collaborate with colleagues to share teaching strategies. Emphasizing clear communication and continuous self-reflection can further ease the transition and enhance teaching effectiveness.

How do you become a nursing instructor?

To become a nursing instructor, you typically need to hold a registered nurse (RN) license and have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in nursing, with many positions requiring a master's or doctoral degree. Relevant clinical experience, teaching skills, and certification in nursing education can also enhance qualifications for teaching at colleges or universities.

What is a nursing instructor?

Nursing instructors teach students who are pursuing a career in nursing. As a nursing instructor, you give lectures, administer exams, grade assignments, and perform all other duties an educator might have. You prepare students for nursing examinations in both laboratory and classroom setting. With experience, you may also teach aspiring nursing educators. Outside of the classroom you meet with other teaching and administrative staff, attend educational conferences, and develop curricula for upcoming classes.

What is the difference between Nursing Instructor vs Nursing Educator?

AspectNursing InstructorNursing Educator
CredentialsRN license, nursing degree, teaching certification (if required)RN license, advanced nursing degrees (e.g., MSN, DNP), teaching credentials (if applicable)
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, clinical labs, healthcare facilitiesClassrooms, online platforms, healthcare training programs
Employer & IndustryColleges, universities, nursing schoolsEducational institutions, healthcare organizations, training programs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Nursing Instructors and Nursing Educators play vital roles in training future nurses. Nursing Instructors typically teach in academic settings and may focus on classroom instruction and clinical supervision. Nursing Educators often have broader roles, including curriculum development and training within healthcare organizations. While their credentials and environments overlap, their specific responsibilities may differ based on the setting.

What do nursing instructors do?

Nursing instructors teach nursing students in academic settings, developing and delivering course content, assessing student performance, and ensuring they meet licensing requirements. They often supervise clinical practice, provide mentorship, and stay current with healthcare practices and regulations. Strong communication, clinical expertise, and teaching skills are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nursing instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nursing Instructor, you need a strong background in nursing practice, a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Nursing, and a valid RN license, often supplemented by teaching experience. Familiarity with learning management systems, simulation lab technology, and current clinical guidelines is typically required. Exceptional communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help foster student engagement and support diverse learning needs. These skills ensure effective knowledge transfer, student preparedness, and adherence to educational and clinical standards in nursing education.
What are the most commonly searched types of Nursing Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Nursing Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Nursing Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Nursing Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Nursing Instructor jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Nursing Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Nursing Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,116 per year, or $40 per hour.

$78K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 hours ago


Job description

Are you passionate about shaping the next generation of nurses and advancing excellence in nursing education? Join ATS Institute's Nursing School, a student-focused institution where education transforms lives. Established in 1998, ATS has built a reputation for innovative instruction, hands-on learning, and a steadfast commitment to student achievement.
We are seeking an accomplished and dedicated Full-Time Nursing Instructor to inspire, mentor, and prepare future nurses for success in both clinical practice and licensure. In this key academic role, you will foster a supportive and engaging learning environment that encourages critical thinking, professional growth, and confidence in clinical judgment.
Your Role
The Nursing Instructor plays a pivotal role in preparing students for the realities of modern nursing practice. You will deliver engaging classroom and clinical instruction that integrates theory with hands-on application, ensuring students build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for safe and effective patient care.
Through active mentorship, individualized support, and evidence-based teaching, you will help students master core competencies and develop the clinical judgment required for success on the NCLEX-PN and in their professional careers.
Key Responsibilities
  • Engaging Instruction: Deliver high-quality, student-centered learning experiences that promote participation, confidence, and skill mastery.
  • Clinical Judgement and NCLEX Preparation: Equip students with the theoretical understanding and clinical judgment essential for licensure and professional nursing practice.
  • Individualized Student Support: Identify student learning needs, provide personalized remediation, and mentor learners toward academic and clinical success.
  • Collaboration and Teamwork: Partner with academic leadership, course faculty, and clinical teams to ensure consistency and excellence across the curriculum.
  • Continuous Professional Development: Stay current with best practices in nursing, education, and technology to enhance teaching effectiveness and student outcomes.

Why Join Us?
  • Shape the Future of Nursing: Empower tomorrow's nurses with the skills and confidence to excel in patient care.
  • Professional Growth: Access continuing education and professional development opportunities designed for academic leaders.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a supportive faculty team that values innovation, collegiality, and shared success.
  • Meaningful Impact: Experience the fulfillment of teaching, mentoring, and guiding students toward licensure and lifelong careers in nursing.

Requirements
What We're Looking For
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Nursing (BSN) required; Master's or Doctorate in Nursing preferred.
  • Experience: Minimum of 3 years' experience as a Registered Nurse, with recent clinical practice and/or teaching experience.
  • Licensure: Current, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in Illinois.
  • Attributes:
    • A passion for education, mentorship, and professional excellence.
    • Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
    • Commitment to fostering student success and academic integrity.
    • Ability to inspire critical thinking and lifelong learning.

Benefits
At ATS Institute of Technology, we believe our instructors deserve the same level of dedication and care that they give to their students. We're proud to offer a benefits package that supports your well-being, professional development, and long-term success.
The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $78,000 - $85,000. Compensation is subject to change at the sole discretion of the institution, based on institutional needs.
Our benefits include:
  • Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage designed to support your well-being so you can continue supporting others.
  • 401(k) with Employer Match to help you plan for your future with confidence.
  • Tuition Reimbursement and Continuing Education Opportunities to invest in your professional growth and keep your skills at the forefront of nursing education.
  • Dedicated Paid Time Off including vacation, personal, and sick days for balance and rejuvenation.
  • Paid Holidays to enjoy well-deserved time with loved ones.
  • Mission-Driven Work where your expertise directly shapes the next generation of nurses and advances the quality of patient care.