NCH Seasonal Contract in Florida

[jnh911]

Looking for someone who has completed a seasonal contract for NCH before. I have read the advertisements on their websites for a seasonal contract. Sounds okay since if you commit to a 6 month assignment, they pay for benefits year round. The pay rate might not be worth it though. I am going to check further, but I thought there might be someone who has completed one of these assignments that could give me more information.

[AWanderingMinstral]

Hi, jnh911! I am returning to NCH Downtown in October for my third season. I really like it there. If you take the flat rate [approximately $44.50 per hour plus differential ($2.60 from 3p-7p and $5 from 7p-7a)], then you do not receive health insurance or a housing stipend. However, if you agree to your market rate as well as returning for a subsequent year, you are eligible for both health insurance and housing stipend (which I think is around $850-$1,000 per month). My understanding is that the limited seasonal housing will no longer be available. The biggest issue is affordable housing during peak season in Naples, FL. I recommend that individuals interested in a seasonal contract in SWFL find a long-term apartment rental (i.e. 7 months; several complexes offer these for about $1,100 or so for a 2BR apartment), sign up ASAP for a 6-month contract, and enjoy two weeks before and after your contract begins. NCH employs approximately 150-200 seasonal staff members. So, it's a big network. They really care about their employees and, despite the community's wealth, patients are very nice. My unit has a 5:1 ratio and overtime is usually available between January and March. Let me know if you have any more questions!

[AWanderingMinstral]

BTW, I advise you to secure a 2BR apartment and find another seasonal staff member to share it. Another great part about being down here is visiting the Caribbean or South America and/or taking cruises from Fort Lauderdale. :)