Job market for experienced RN moving to Los Angeles

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Specializes in OR.

I've found love! WHOO-HOO! Will be moving to LA in fall of this year as an old newlywed. I see the posts on new grads having a hard time finding employment but I need info on jobs in Los Angeles for my 3 years of experience as an RN in the OR.

My History = career change from the insurance industry to nursing school; straight out of nursing school (2006) into job as RN circulator and I LOVE WHAT I DO! I know how blessed I am to be able to say that. My hospital is small, rural and not a whole lot of shaking going on but we do handle whatever comes through the door, that means, orthopedics, ENT, GYN/OB, urology and general surgery. That which we cannot handle gets shipped to regional trauma center.

Will ya'll (yes I'm southern) give me some feedback on what to expect in the big city of LA? Also, I have no exposure to this working within a union, what all does that mean? Do all the hospitals have unions? Should that be my aim? I've gotten the application by endorsement and understand that process. Should there be other skills/certifications I should be looking at obtaining. We are planning marriage in the winter, so I do have some time to bone up on the things that will make me more marketable. Thankin you guys in advance for considering my post.

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The job market for nurses in LA is not as good as it was a few years ago. Suggest that you job hunt and get something lined up before you move as it may take quite some time to get a job.

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Specializes in med-surg, step-down, ICU/CCU, ED.

Job market isn't the same as it used to be, but as an OR nurse with 3 years exp you might have an easier time finding work. Have you considered travel nursing? It's a great way to quickly get into the city while not having a long term commitment to a hospital that you might not enjoy working in.

In the meantime, check out UCLA, they are advertising for OR nurses (https://jobs2.mednet.ucla.edu/css_external/CSSPage_Welcome.ASP)

UCLA is an excellent facility, I spent a year there and still miss working there.

As for LA in general, wherever you end up be sure to have a car that runs very well. The cost of living can be high but it all depends on how flexible you are.

Good luck, and congratulations on finding love! I'm digging your positive attitude :)

Alem

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