Can a new grad RN apply for part time jobs?

One1, BSN, RN · Jun 10, 2012

Cory,
The more hours you work, the more rapidly this development occurs. If you are only working half the number of hours, it will take you twice as long to become competent. You would also run the risk of having a bazillion different preceptors which would make the process even slower.
So, part time is not an option normally offered to new grads.

I can tell you that I learned twice as much in my part-time midshift position than I did in my full-time night position, simply because the patient load is that much higher during mid-shifts. And yes, our facility absolutely offers part-time positions to new grads.

Alikatz · Jun 12, 2012

I just accepted a job offer in the speciality I wanted as a new grad for part time (right now they don't have full time position to offer on that floor)! Eventually I will be able to get a full time position, but for now it's fine (just glad to have a job and in what I love, couldn't be happier). The hospital is excellent and has a super graduate nurse residency program, so I will be orientating for several months full time on days to gain as much experience on the unit as possible and then will go into my shift. I will have preceptors for both and mentors after preceptorship is done, so I can always ask for help/questions/etc. It really depends on the hospital!

dressagerdr · Jun 12, 2012

Do it! I just graduated nursing school less than a month ago, and I got a part-time job on a Neuro floor. For my first three months, I'll be full time as I'm being trained, and then go down to .5 FTE. At first I balked at the idea, but after the manager reassuring me that there are plenty of opportunities to pick up hours beyond what I'm scheduled, I'm actually kind of happy it's working out this way! Since I'll only be scheduled 20 hours a week, this offers me more flexibility to schedule myself where I want to be scheduled for whatever hours I want to pick up. I also have full benefits, so I wouldn't change a thing! Good luck!

saera · Jan 23, 2013

Hi! Several of you mentioned that you found part time jobs as new grads--could you share what hospitals you work at? I'm a new grad interested in working at a hospital part time but am having a hard time finding a match.

Thanks!

willmakeit · Jul 3, 2013

Its been 2 years since my original post. Just wanted to update that I was offered a part time position at a LTC/sub-acute rehab close to my home sometime Aug'11. I kept calling and calling the same place after I filled out an application at their premises. The nurse manager had actually called another candidate to offer this position but since that person didnt return her call and I happened to call the manager at the right time and right moment, she offered me the position. I jumped at it right away even though it was part time and a night shift position.

I've been there ever since and hv learned a lot. It was a blessing because it is much quieter at night compared to day/evening shifts and I was able to develop and learn many skills. Now I've been offered a RN Field position with a HHC agency. :nailbiting:

KryBry · Mar 26, 2014

Good for you! i'm assuming you found a job within NYC? Do you think it has been easier/harder for new graduates to obtain a job and if I may ask, where did you get your nursing education?

willmakeit · May 12, 2014

Good for you! i'm assuming you found a job within NYC? Do you think it has been easier/harder for new graduates to obtain a job and if I may ask, where did you get your nursing education?

Hi Krystal, it's difficult to say if the job market is easier/harder for new grads. It all depends on the location. Some places are willing to hire new grads and mold them. I think what these companies do for new grads are awesome. Everyone has to start somewhere. On the other hand, there are those that will not even look at your resume if you are a new grad.

I did my nursing at a local community college. I am now enrolled in a online BSN program.