Published
It usually offers a lot of flexibility, but be sure to check out the specific requirements of the facility that you will work for -- some require that you work a minimum or maximum # of shifts a week or month, that you work a specific # of holidays per year (if you're just planning on doing it for the summer, that probably wouldn't matter), etc. And, yes, you can choose whether or not to work when they call you, but many places have a rule that they drop you from the pool list if you turn them down a specific # of times in a row.
It's esp. easy to get lots of work in the summer, because many of the regular staff will be wanting to take vacation time. It's probably doubtful that you'd be able to make OT -- the facility will just ask someone else who hasn't worked as much yet that week to come in. I'm not saying it couldn't happen, though.
I really enjoy "pool" positions. They are a great alternative if you do not need benefits. I am FT (32 hrs) right now, but just turned in my two weeks notice and plan to stay there at the very lowest pool level position. It will be less pay than I make now (strange, because most other pool positions I have worked offered higher pay), but I will have all the flexibility that is most important at this stage of my life. Once I have been employed by the facility for a year I plan to go agency, where I will (most likely) be paid more for the same type of flexibility.
Nalini
34 Posts
I've just completed my CNA classes and am wondering about the advantages/disadvantages of being in a pool. My understanding is that I can be called in anytime if needed but that I would be able to say no if I wasn't able to come in. Is it possible for this to be full time/OT/part-time? I'm hoping this will work around for summer classes for 6 weeks....
Thanks :)
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