Job Market for Sacramento

[BaileyRNBSN]

​Hello to ALL!!

I am relocating to Sacramento Area with my military husband:cool:. I am hearing horror stories:cry: about not being able to find a job for months or years. How true is this? Do they really still have paper charting in Cali?? My biggest concern is that most requirements for postings want 2yr minimum as RN. I am a 1yr BSN from a Level 1 trauma facility on a tele/CCU step down as night shift charge nurse, we take any where from 3-6 pts no matter the acuity. Any and all suggestions, tips & feedback will be appreciated.

[akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P]

The job market is going to be tough, but less so for you than me. Most of the acute care hospitals have EHR systems up and running now in this area. There is one that I'm aware of that still uses paper, but they're planning to switch over in the near future. I'm less certain about the LTC's and the LTAC facilities on this point though.

It may not be much, but I hope it helps!

[BaileyRNBSN]

How much different?? I have butterflies in my stomach:speechless: thinking about this move!! Most of the job posting I see require or prefer 2yrs min.

[akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P]

It really depends upon what you're looking for. I'm a new grad. I have zero experience post nursing school. That means I need to be fully trained/oriented to function on a given floor or unit whereas you have documented experience as an RN. You'll require less of an orientation than I will, so you'll be less expensive to train. The other side of that coin is that an employer can mold me more easily into the nurse they need me to be whereas you have to adapt to the new situation. On the whole, you'll have an easier time than I will.

Hopefully the fact that you're in a Military Family won't work against you.

Even if you don't find a job out here right away, I think you'll like the Sacramento area... except when it gets hot but at least it's usually a dry heat.

[RunBabyRN]

The major cities in CA are tough right now, but depending on where you're headed (Travis?), there are slightly more rural options, which may be easier to find.

The year of experience will definitely help you. Apply, even if they say they require 2 years. The worst that happens is they reject you, but you never have a chance if you don't try! Start applying at least 3 months out before you move. New grads are taking 6-9 months to find work (or longer) right now. Tele experience will be very helpful! Few hospitals have paper charting anymore. I know the hospital where I did clinicals and precepted does, but they're switching later this year, and they're the only place in the area that still does it that way.