Finding a job in Florida

[paradox28]

I currently live in Ohio, and I'm seriously considering moving to Florida.

I was wondering how hard it is to find a job as an LPN in Florida. I've recently graduated and I'm taking my NCLEX in the next 2-4 weeks. I plan on working for 6 months-1 year in Ohio so I can get some experience and save money.

I have family that lives in Englewood, so I would want to live and work near there. The counties that I would like to work in are Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, or Desoto. I was wondering how hard it is to find a job as an LPN. I see a decent amount of job postings on websites, but from what I read here, it's hard to find jobs. I wouldn't mind working LTC, which I know is one of my few options.

Also, I'm a 24 year old male and plan on getting my BSN.

Any input would be appreciated!

[BrendaH84, BSN]

one to three years of experience as an LPN or RN will get you a job. otherwise there are a ton of recent grads here-who are willing to go anywhere in the state to get a job. plus everyone wants to live in florida.

so once you have 1 - 3 years of experience as a working nurse THEN start applying BEFORE YOU MOVE :)

two different recruiters have told me they get hundreds of apps for every job they post, so obviously they need a criteria to start with , which is 1. you have experience or 2. you already work there as a tech or something.

[emcadams]

Personally, I have found that you just need to apply and see what happens. There is a lot of job availability in Lee County (not sure about the others). That said, there are also many people applying to those jobs. The interview is all about making sure you are the right personality for that company. They already know your credentials. LTC pay more than some of the hospitals in South Florida. While you are working, make sure you write down and put into a portfolio things that they will ask in an interview...a time when you mediated a stressful situation, provided great care, showed good teamwork, etc.

[paradox28]

Thanks for the responses and help people.

I've decided that I'm going to work in Ohio for 1 year +...while saving all of my income (besides necessities). I'll find an apartment in FLA, and let the job hunt begin!

Can't wait, a year is a long time away....

[BrendaH84, BSN]

u can always apply while ur still in ohio and at that time apply for ur license here too, i think it's just some paperwork and a fee. i worked with someone who did that and after her phone interviews the hospital even gave a her a few thousand for moving expenses to move to florida :)