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

Travel Physical Therapist

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.3K/wk

We support travel assignments, local short- and long-term contracts, per diem, temp-to-perm, and direct hire opportunities nationwide. Our clinical coverage includes Registered Nurse specialties such ...

Travel Occupational Therapist

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$1.8K - $2.2K/wk

We support travel assignments, local short- and long-term contracts, per diem, temp-to-perm, and direct hire opportunities nationwide. Our clinical coverage includes Registered Nurse specialties such ...

Showing results 41-60

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:

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.

Ambulatory Services Nurse II, Preop & PACU, Operating Room

Sutter Health

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$62.84 - $87.98/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Sutter Health rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 330 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!
Organization:
SOPS-Sutter Outpatient Services - San Luis Obispo
Position Overview:
Accountable for the assessment, planning, treatment and evaluation during the pre operative, intra operative and post operative phases of nursing care. Assists the physician during surgery and procedures by functioning in the circulating role. Develops, implements, manages/coordinates an optimal interdisciplinary plan of care that incorporates psychological, sociocultural, spiritual, economic, and life-style factors. Fosters and maintains collaborative relationships between patients, their family/support group, physicians, and other healthcare providers through timely and effective communications. Adheres to polices, industry standards, best practices, and applicable laws/regulations and codes to promote a quality, highly reliable patient experience. Engages in continuous growth and development in professional nursing practice.
Job Description:
EDUCATION
  • Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.

CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE
  • RN-Registered Nurse of California
  • BLS-Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider
  • ACLS-Advanced Cardiac Life Support
  • PALS-Pediatric Advanced Life Support

TYPICAL EXPERIENCE:
  • 2 years recent relevant experience

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
  • Demonstrated knowledge and competence with regard to nursing theories, concepts and practices; medical terminology; anatomy; and physiology.
  • Working knowledge of the healthcare industry, safety precaution policies, best practices regarding patient care and privacy, and changes in local/state/federal regulations.
  • Possess written and verbal communications skills to explain sensitive information clearly and professionally to diverse audiences, including non-medical people.
  • Basic knowledge of computer applications, such as Microsoft Office Suite (Word and Outlook), Electronic Health Record.
  • Ability to prioritize assignments and work within standardized policies, procedures, and scientific methods to achieve objectives and meet deadlines.
  • Work independently, as well as be part of the team, including accomplishing multiple tasks in an environment with interruptions.
  • Identify, evaluate and resolve standard problems by selecting appropriate solutions from established options.
  • Ensure the privacy of each patient's protected health information (PHI).
  • Build collaborate relationships with peers and other healthcare providers to achieve departmental and corporate objectives.

These Principal Accountabilities, Requirements and Qualifications are not exhaustive, but are merely the most descriptive of the current job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, staff changes, workload, or technical development).
Job Shift:
Days
Schedule:
Per Diem/Casual
Shift Hours:
8
Days of the Week:
Variable
Weekend Requirements:
Saturday
Benefits:
No
Unions:
No
Position Status:
Non-Exempt
Weekly Hours:
0
Employee Status:
Per Diem/Casual
Employees of Sutter Health and its entities may handle hazardous drugs in the course of their work, including patient care, which requires them to manage, store, prepare, receive, unpack, transport, dispose of, or administer drugs identified as hazardous or potentially hazardous by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and in accordance with the USP 800 guidelines.
Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.
Pay Range is $62.84 to $87.98 / hour
The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.

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