New Grad Nursing Jobs in CA

[canuck1019]

Hey all..

I'm new to this site, so here's a little bit about myself.. I graduate from nursing school in May, and I live in NY. I am looking to move to CA and hopefully find a position in an ICU there. I don't really have much information about CA hospitals, but I know here in NY a few hospitals do an ICU internship program that they offer to new grads and experienced nurses. I was wondering if anyone knew if there was anything offered like that in CA? Also, if anyone knows any hospitals that are willing to hire new grads to their ICU I would appreciate the information! I am looking to take my boards in June and then hopefully come to CA to continue my job search/interview over the summer. I just want to get as much information right now as I possibly can so that I am prepared!

Thanks!

Katie

[Maria209]

You should consider the fact that some hospitals will not hire beyond their area code, specially in the central valley. DMC has a Versant new grad program, but they only hire local because people tend to get their experience and then leave. You can't blame them for that.

[MoshRN]

Stay where you are, get experience, and then move. California is wicked wicked depressing (unless you know somebody who can give you a job)

[dcc28561]

So what type of experience should we get before moving and trying to get a job in CA? Any RN experience? Home care? I really want to work in PICU, or NICU, or Peds ICU but most CA hospitals require at least 6 months of experience. I don't know how I can make my resume good enough to get the jobs. Any suggestions? I'm in DC and there are not very many children's hospitals here. I want to work with kids and I thought CA would be a better place for me since there are several children's hospitals there. I thought that meant more opportunity for new grads.

[willowita, ADN, RN]

Here's the new RN residency program info from Children's Hospital LA. You don't need prior experience. RN Residency in Pediatrics | CHLA

[NickiLaughs, ADN, BSN, RN]

It's a challenge to get into a new grad program if you aren't from the state. Many look at where you currently live as a factor and will only hire local from their county. I'd move somewhere rural in any state and start in your specialty if possible. Get 2 to 3 years experience, specialty certification and a BSN if you don't already have one. There are a ton of nursing programs in California as well as many experiences nurses wanting to move here because of salary. Competition is stiff across the board.