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Step Down Unit Rn Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bileddo Associates

Travel RN Step down

San Francisco, CA

$67.50 - $82.50/hr

Looking for an Step down ICU RN with proficiency in Step down procedures, vascular procedures and Neuro Stroke procedures. EDUCATION: * Associate Degree in Nursing. CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE: * BLS ...

GQR Global Markets

RN - Step Down Unit

Inglewood, CA · On-site

Step Down Unit Provider Opportunity GQR Healthcare is representing a well-known health system seeking experienced Step Down Unit providers to add to their team. If you are passionate about providing ...

Bestica Healthcare

RN II-SDU PCU/SCU

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$2.2K - $3.1K/wk

RN - Step Down/PCU | San Luis Obispo, CA 2 Positions Available | 13-Week Contract Start Date: 09/14/26 Shift: Nights | 7:00 PM - 7:30 AM Hours: 36 hrs/week Requirements: * Active CA RN License * ACLS ...

GQR Global Markets

RN - Step Down Unit

Modesto, CA · On-site

$636.91 - $731.91/wk

Contract - W2 Cardiac Stepdown (PCU/IMC) Registered Nurse (RN) Job Location: Modesto, California ... A dedicated recruiter and support team that will help you every step of the way to ensure you start ...

GQR Global Markets

RN Step Down Unit

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

$592.40 - $687.40/wk

Contract - W2 Cardiac Stepdown (PCU/IMC) Registered Nurse (RN) Job Location: Palm Springs ... A dedicated recruiter and support team that will help you every step of the way to ensure you start ...

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Step Down Unit Rn information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$71.5K

$100.7K

How much do step down unit rn jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for step down unit rn in California is $71,453.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,100.00 and $68,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a step down unit RN?

Step Down Unit RNs are registered nurses who care for patients who require more attention than those on a general medical-surgical floor but are not critical enough for the intensive care unit (ICU). They monitor patients closely, administer medications, and respond quickly to changes in condition. Step Down Unit RNs often work with patients recovering from surgery, cardiac events, or severe illnesses, providing advanced monitoring and support to help them transition to lower levels of care.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a step down unit RN?

To thrive as a Step Down Unit RN, you need strong clinical assessment skills, acute care experience, and an active RN license, often with ACLS certification. Familiarity with telemetry monitoring, electronic health records (EHRs), and advanced life support protocols is essential. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and resilience help you manage complex patient needs and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes in a high-acuity, fast-paced environment.

What are common challenges faced by step down unit RNs, and how can they be addressed?

Step Down Unit RNs often manage patients who are too ill for general medical-surgical floors but do not require intensive care, which means rapidly changing patient conditions can present significant challenges. Balancing a higher patient-to-nurse ratio than in the ICU while still providing vigilant monitoring requires strong organizational and prioritization skills. Effective communication with multidisciplinary teams and quick decision-making are essential to ensure patient safety. Many RNs find that actively seeking mentorship, participating in continuing education, and using available support resources can help manage these challenges and support professional growth.

What is the difference between Step Down Unit Rn vs Medical-Surgical Nurse?

AspectStep Down Unit RnMedical-Surgical Nurse
CredentialsRN license, possibly CCRN or specialty certificationsRN license, often same certifications
Work EnvironmentIntermediate care units, closer patient monitoringGeneral hospital floors, broader patient care
Patient AcuityHigher acuity, more complex casesModerate acuity, routine cases
Job FocusMonitoring critical signs, managing unstable patientsProviding basic nursing care, patient education

The main difference between a Step Down Unit Rn and a Medical-Surgical Nurse lies in patient acuity and care complexity. Step Down Unit Rns handle higher acuity patients requiring closer monitoring, while Medical-Surgical Nurses care for patients with moderate needs. Both roles require an RN license and similar certifications, but the work environment and patient care focus differ significantly.

Do step down unit RNs get paid more?

Step Down Unit RNs typically earn higher salaries than those working in general medical-surgical units due to the increased complexity of patient care and the specialized skills required. Their advanced training, certifications, and experience in critical care contribute to higher compensation levels.

What are popular job titles related to Step Down Unit Rn jobs in California?

For Step Down Unit Rn jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Step Down Unit Rn jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Step Down Unit Rn jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Step Down Unit Rn jobs?

Cities in California with the most Step Down Unit Rn job openings:

Step Down Unit Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Step Down Unit Rn job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,453 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

WAMC | RN Stepdown | Days | Per Diem

Anaheim, CA • On-site

Skybridge Resources
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Skybridge Resourcesexternal

$49.50 - $58.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Registered Nurse Step Down Unit

Type: Step Down Unit Anaheim, CA SkyBridge Healthcare is currently seeking Registered Nurse with Step Down Unit experience for a 13-week contract in CA. SkyBridge Healthcare is a premier staffing firm dedicated to matching outstanding talent with exceptional opportunities. Our commitment to excellence and our consultative approach has helped us become a leader in the Healthcare staffing industry. Whether you are an experienced traveler, or this is your first travel position, SkyBridge Healthcare puts our Nurses first and ensures a seamless travel experience.

Minimum Requirements: 1 year full time RN Step Down Unit experience within the last 2 years. SkyBridge Healthcare offers industry leading benefits including: Top of the line weekly pay packages Travel assistance Weekly tax-free stipend Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance 24/7 support with a dedicated recruiter This role may include a Completion Bonuses, Signing Bonuses, and generous Referral Bonuses. SkyBridge Healthcare is dedicated to being with you every step of the way and we personally will ensure we provide you with all the tools needed to be successful.

Working in a new city is an experience in itself, especially when starting a new job you are passionate about. Your exposure to unfamiliar territory will push you to broaden your horizons, enhance your professional skills, and grow your network. SkyBridge Healthcare wants the best for our employees, and we are dedicated to helping professionals land their ideal travel assignment.

Pay Rate Range: $49.50 - $58.50 Pay Rate is dependent on seniority and other factors that will be discussed during the hiring process

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