Chicagoland jobs for new grads?

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Naturally, I would love to get a great job at a reputable hospital. But the downturn in the economy means the job market is getting tight for new grads. Outside of hospitals, what are the options? Are there more difficult and less desirable positions that are still up for grabs??

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I understand how you feel. I am in the same position. I have applied some of everywhere and I am now starting to go at least 50 miles from the chicago area, but nothing has tunred up so far. I was advised to try home health. I just want a job at this point. Keep me posted on any openings and I will do the same. Good luck in your job hunt.

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Hi inspired, I'm actually just getting started in school, and I'm looking into nurse assistant jobs, volunteer work, and internships as a way to get a foot in the door. Best of luck. I hope you find something soon. I've read that the nursing shortage will likely deepen as the economy settles down.

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You have the right idea. I was told that if you volunteer that they are already familiar with you and it is a little easier to transition into the position that you are seeking. Thank you for the support and I wish you good luck as well.

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Try Outpatient Clinics and Community Clinics as well as Dr's Offices. I'm about to start a job at an outpatient clinic.

Good Luck.

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How about mental health and nursing homes? is anyone finding demand at these venues?

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Specializes in LTC/Skilled Care/Rehab.

I found a job in a nursing home. I work on a skilled nursing unit so we have residents with trachs, G-tubes, foley's, all kinds of meds. I like it so far but I have only been working a couple of weeks. Plus the pay is pretty good ($26/hr). I didn't want to work in Psych because I know that isn't an area I am interested. We have a lot of patients with Psych issues but most also have medical issues also. I think it is great experience for a new nurse. The only problem is learning how to juggle 20+ patients at a time!

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

I also found a job in a nursing home @ $21/hr. not the best pay but I put in around 20 applications including internet, resumes through emails and faxes and walk in. I actually scored two on the spot interviews. So when you go to put in applications dress for success because you never know. It took me about 2months and now I have a permanent position on a skilled unit. 30 pts. they have. g-tubes, supra-pubic & foley cath. ostomies. trach, J-pratt. vision impaired. wounds and amputees, diabetics, dialysis, and dementia pts all on one unit. Lots of on hand experience. I was really intimadated by how I only got 2 wks of orientation..I think a lot of the south and west side of chicago are like that. so get ready. Good luck with the job search, you'll find something. Trying to hang in there to get my year in so I'll have options.don't know if your RN or LPN but most of LPN jobs are in nursing homes.But there are some hospital jobs out there.Good luck with the job search, you'll find something.

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Hi all,

The job market in Chicago STINKS right now. I finished school in November and finally got hired at a teaching hospital at the beginning of May. I'm guessing I applied for at least 80-90 positions, and even ventured into Milwaukee and parts of Indiana. If you're willing to take anything, I did get a few calls from outpatient clinics and community hospitals just from posting my resume on Careerbuilder and Monster, so that might be an idea. These days it's also all about who you know, or who your parents/siblings/friends know!

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Specializes in Accepted...Master's Entry Program, 2008!.

I would like to second the opinion that the Chicago job market sucks for new grads and experienced RNs as well. I have gotten my first year of experience (graduated in 2009) and finding another job is nearly impossible. I currently work at a small community hospital and I'm sort of stuck there for the time being.

My suggestion is the same as the other posts. Do not forget the small community hospitals. I believe that smaller community places is where a new grad is more likely to get a job. That's how it worked out for my class.

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I just recently graduated and passed the NCLEX-PN, now I'm looking for jobs:). I'm still in school to finish my RN, but would like to start working to gain nursing experience. Anyone know who's hiring in Chicagoland and surrounding suburban areas. Thanks in advance for your help.

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Specializes in Geriatrics, Adult Psych, Peds HH.

Nursing homes are your best bet. There is a job fair on September 16th at the Drury Lane in Oak Brook, IL, I believe, and some big names hospitals will be there (Loyola, Alexian Brothers, Sinai,etc.)

But for a new grad, hit the nursing homes and the open houses for them. It won't be the greatest job, but it's better than being unemployed.

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