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Observation Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

RN - Observation Unit

Duluth, MN · On-site

$45.03 - $68.87/hr

We are currently hiring an RN for our Observation Unit at Essentia Health Duluth - Miller Dwan. Education Qualifications: BSN or ADN degree from an accredited school or college of nursing What you'll ...

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Observation information

See Minnesota salary details

$7

$45

$92

How much do observation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for observation in Minnesota is $45.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.90 and $58.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an observation?

An Observation job typically involves monitoring, recording, and reporting specific activities, behaviors, or events in a given environment. This role is common in fields such as security, research, education, and healthcare, where accurate data collection and attention to detail are critical. Observers may work independently or as part of a team, using various tools and techniques to document findings. Strong analytical skills and objectivity are essential for success in this position.

What are the typical responsibilities and daily tasks involved in an observation role?

In an Observation role, your daily responsibilities usually include monitoring designated areas or activities, recording pertinent information, and promptly reporting irregularities or incidents according to established protocols. You may also review video footage, maintain detailed logs, and communicate observations to supervisors or relevant departments. Observation professionals often collaborate closely with security teams, quality assurance staff, or medical personnel, depending on the industry. Staying alert and focused throughout your shift is crucial to ensure that nothing important is missed. Over time, there are opportunities to move into supervisory or specialist positions, expanding your expertise and leadership within the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the observation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in an observation role—such as an Observation Specialist or Observation Technician—you need strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and a background in data collection or surveillance, often supported by relevant certifications or training in observation methods. Familiarity with video monitoring systems, logging software, and specialized reporting tools is commonly required. Excellent communication, discretion, and the ability to remain focused over extended periods are key soft skills for excelling in this position. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring that incidents are accurately documented and reported, supporting organizational safety and compliance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Observation jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Observation jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Observation jobs in Minnesota?

For Observation jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Observation job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,949 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Registered Nurse | Observation Unit

St. Cloud Hospital

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

$42.86 - $71.51/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Help make a difference in the lives of our patients and find your purpose providing care and dignity to the Observation Unit patient population!

The Observation Unit team works closely together on the 14-bed unit. Unit flow is fast-paced with average patient stay less than 24 hours. Adult patient population has a large variety including medical, cardiac, surgical, post-procedure and outpatient services. Previous experience lending well to this environment include Med-Surg, Emergency Room and Urgent Care. Unit manager is engaged on the unit, working Charge Nurse shifts and pursuing improvement projects identified by nurses.  

  • Schedule
    • Part-time | 32-48 hours every two weeks | Onsite
    • Rotating shifts | 8 & 12 hour shifts | 7am-3:30pm, 7am-7:30pm, 3pm-11:30pm
    • Every other weekend (Fri-Sun) | rotating holidays
  • Pay and Benefits 
    • 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

    • Earn extra pay for working evening/night/weekend shifts 
    • $3,500 hiring bonus and $5,000 relocation bonus for eligible candidates!
    • Full time benefits: medical, dental, PTO, retirement, employee discounts and more!
  • Qualifications
    • Graduate from a nursing program and current MN RN license required
    • BSN required within three years
    • Current American Heart Association (AHA) BLS Healthcare Provider card required

“I regularly hear staff from outside of our department say that they like floating to the Observation Unit because the teamwork is good. The patient turnover is faster than the inpatient units.” - Manager, Observation Unit

To be eligible for the hiring and relocation bonus you must be an external candidate who is hired into an eligible full or part time benefited position.  Previous employees qualify if they have not worked for CentraCare for at least 9 months at the date of hire.  To be eligible for the relocation bonus, you must currently reside more than 50 miles away from St. Cloud Hospital and relocate to within 30 miles of it. CentraCare hiring incentives to include but not limited to, hiring and relocation bonuses may be discontinued at any time.  

Please apply below so we can start the conversation. You're also welcome to contact our recruiter for this role before or after you apply. Patty McNary can be reached at 320-251-2700 x 54745 or mcnaryp@centracare.com