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Per Diem Rn Jobs in Santa Maria, CA (NOW HIRING)

HCS 247

Travel Labor and Delivery RN

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

HCS 247 is seeking a travel nurse RN Labor and Delivery for a travel nursing job in Santa Maria ... Lodging Per-Diem for those who qualify * Meals and Incidentals Allowance for those who qualify

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Per Diem Rn information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$5

$42

$78

How much do per diem rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem rn in Santa Maria, CA is $42.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.58 and $58.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a per diem RN?

A Per Diem RN is a registered nurse who works on an as-needed basis rather than having a set, full-time schedule. These nurses fill staffing gaps, cover for absences, or help during busy periods at hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. Per diem RNs often have flexibility in choosing their shifts, but they may not receive the same benefits as full-time staff. This role is ideal for nurses seeking variety and work-life balance.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a per diem RN?

To thrive as a Per Diem RN, you need a valid RN license, strong clinical assessment abilities, and experience across various healthcare settings. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and up-to-date certifications such as BLS and ACLS are typically required. Flexibility, strong communication, and the ability to quickly adapt to different teams and environments are standout soft skills. These competencies are vital for delivering safe, effective care while efficiently integrating into new units with minimal orientation.

How does scheduling typically work for a per diem RN, and what level of flexibility can I expect?

As a Per Diem RN, you have the flexibility to choose your shifts based on your availability, which makes this role ideal for those seeking work-life balance or supplemental income. Scheduling is often managed through online portals or direct communication with nurse managers, and you may be asked to fill shifts on short notice to cover staff shortages or peak periods. While you have control over your schedule, keep in mind that the most shifts are often available during weekends, holidays, or less desirable hours. Building strong relationships with staffing coordinators and being open to various shifts can help you secure more consistent work.

What is the difference between Per Diem Rn vs Staff Nurse?

AspectPer Diem RnStaff Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN) licenseRegistered Nurse (RN) license
Work EnvironmentVaries daily, short-term assignments, flexible schedulingFull-time or part-time hospital or clinic settings, consistent schedule
Employment TypePer diem, as-needed basisPermanent or temporary staff position
UsageSupplemental staffing, fill-in shiftsPrimary nursing staff in healthcare facilities

Per Diem Rns are registered nurses working on a flexible, as-needed basis, often filling in for staff shortages or covering shifts temporarily. Staff Nurses typically hold full-time or part-time positions with consistent schedules in healthcare facilities. The main difference lies in employment type and scheduling flexibility, with Per Diem Rns offering more adaptability compared to the steady employment of Staff Nurses.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rn jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

The most popular types of Rn jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Per Diem Rn jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

For Per Diem Rn jobs in Santa Maria, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Per Diem Rn jobs in Santa Maria, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Per Diem Rn jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Per Diem Rn jobs?

Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Per Diem Rn job openings:

Per Diem Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Per Diem Rn job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,644 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Per Diem Registered Nurse - Emergency Dept.

Lompoc Valley Medical Center

Lompoc, CA • On-site

$54.07 - $69.23/hr

Per diem

Posted 20 days ago

Lompoc Valley Medical Center rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 1,065 rated hospitals

Job description

Salary Range: $54.07-$69.23

Pay rates are determined based on experience and internal equity.

Position Summary:

  • Plans, coordinates and implements patient care for emergency department patients. 
  • Demonstrates quality and effectiveness in work habits and clinical practice.
  • Remains flexible to changing systems.
  • Supports other nursing units by floating when needed after appropriate orientation.
  • Treats patients, families, visitors, peers and physicians with consideration and respect.
  • Works well under stress or with tight deadlines.

District Responsibility

  • Supports the District Mission, Vision and Values Statements.
  • Demonstrate Respect, Professionalism and Courtesy to all patients, visitors, other providers and coworkers, as delineated in the LVMC “Commitment to Care”.
  • Constantly use C-I-CARE principles when communicating with others.
  • Maintains all principles of confidentiality according to District policy and as required by State and Federal agencies.
  • Follows guidelines and practices identified in the Employee Handbook. 
  • Participates in continuous quality improvement activities within the unit and within the Nursing Department.
  • Completes hospital-wide skills criteria annually.
  • Complies with annual PPD testing. 
  • Maintains responsibility for own professional development.

Position Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrates proficiency in the care of patients in the Emergency Department after appropriate orientation to the area.
  • Maintains ability to perform competencies within each area as assigned and completes renewal of competencies annually.
  • Demonstrates the knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and the skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served.
  • Is able to assess and interpret data about the patient’s status to identify each patient/family’s specific needs and to provide the care needed to the appropriate level.
  • Documents care through appropriate charting and care planning for continuation of care.
  • Other duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

Essential Functions:

  • The ability to be able to walk or stand for long periods of time.
  • The ability to transfer patients.
  • The ability to have fine motor control of hands and fingers.
  • Maintains nursing license following the Scope of Practice for Registered Nursing. 
  • Demonstrates the ability to function as a team member within the unit and the nursing department.
  • Demonstrates the ability to have positive personal interactions with staff, patients, visitors and physicians.
  • Accepts appropriate supervision.
  • Communicates concerns appropriately using the established chain of command.

Position Qualifications:

  • Education: Current State of California Registered Nursing License.  Successfully completes ED Risk Initiative assignments, as directed, upon determined deadline.
    • Certifications: BLS, ACLS, PALS
  • Experience: 1 year previous experience preferred but not required.
  • Certifications: BLS required from the American Heart Association prior to hire date.  ACLS, PALS required prior to end of orientation period or 120 days from hire date, whichever is sooner.
  • Skills/Ability: Current knowledge of the care of the Emergency Department patient within a reasonable time after hire.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills.  Computer skills preferred.  Exhibits the ability to organize work assignments and follow through with accuracy.  Exercises good judgment, demonstrates initiative, emotional stability, tact and poise.
  • LVMC reserves the right to modify the minimum requirements depending on the needs of the organization.    

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