New Grad Denver area

Hi, I'll be graduating at the end of July with my BSN. I have been looking at hospitals in the Denver area and I am trying to determine a little more about the hospitals. I have looked at St. Lukes, St. Joseph's, UCH and Denver Health. I am really hoping to work in labor and delivery. I want to do my practicum in labor and delivery but I am nervous to do this, in case I am unable to get a job in this department. Does anyone know about the L&D dept's at these hospitals? Do they hire often? What is the avg pay for new grads (I will be moving from Mississippi and am nervous I can't afford it)? Are there any other hospitals that I should be looking at? And also, as I will graduate on Jul 24, and most new grad programs start very soon after, can you begin the programs before you take your NCLEX? I have known people who have done this and I have heard conflicting answers.

Thanks so much for any help!