Help (state job vs. hospital job)

[Nurse_cox]

Hi all! I have been a RN for 10 years. I've always worked in hospitals but now I have an interview with for an office nurse (it is an office run by university physicians, so it will be North Carolina state benefits). Has anyone else here worked for the state of North Carolina? I'm guessing the salary will be less than my current job but the benefits may make up for that?? Will they negotiate at all with pay or should I expect them to offer me the bottom of the range? How flexible are these job? I've heard you can leave to run errands, unlike hospital positions where you are stuck there for the 12 hour shift and can barely stop to pee.

I appreciate any advice!

[kbrn2002, ADN, RN]

My father was a University employee for the state of Wisconsin for years. The benefits were phenomenal. He is still the only person I personally know who actually had a higher income after retirement than before. Retired with full pension, including insurance paid plus his personal retirement account and Social Security.

Of course this is a different state and that was a different time, but I'd still be willing to bet that benefits for a State position will be better than at any hospital.

Hopefully somebody is more up do date with current benefits in your state can answer your questions.

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

I can't speak to the particulars of your state, but I do know that where I live the state benefits are fabulous. I had health insurance which cost all of $70 a month and covered 95% of my medical expenses. There were also other goodies like free gym membership, counseling services, discounts on cell phone service, retirement benefits...the list goes on. The salary wasn't terrific, but it was adequate and the job security was awesome. Definitely worth it. :)