2 part-time jobs vs. 1 full-time job

[DesertSky]

I am considering accepting two part-time positions versus maintaining one full-time job. The reason I am considering two part-time positions is because each position is in a different area and I would like the chance to work in two different specialties (Surgical ICU & PACU). Each position requires 2 12 hour shifts per week which would mean a total of 48 hours per week. I am on my husbands health insurance so I am not concerned about not qualifying for benefits being full-time.

Can anyone share their experience and advice in the matter? I would appreciate any suggestions or thoughts! Thank you.

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

One employer isn't going to care about your obligations to the other. What if you're on call for the PACU, get called in for an overnight case and are scheduled to work in the SICU at 7am?

[amoLucia]

Because of necessity, I once worked 2 PT jobs - one in a small business school and the other as my nsg supervisor position, part-time EVERY WEEKEND. On holidays when the school was closed, I also did every holiday at the NH. In essence, I worked 365/365 without any days off for over a year.

That schedule was a KILLER!! After a while, I seriously missed not having a weekend off; not even a single day off. I never had the chance to ever 'sleep in' just to 'recharge' my body & psyche.

I'd also caution to be reasonably sure that your hubby's job is SECURE without the worry of unexpected unemployment.

And to cphilibinOK - interesting point to think about. TY

[DesertSky, BSN]

Each employer would have demands on your time for weekends, holidays, mandatory meetings, etc.

You would be viewed as a part-time employee in both facilities. They treat part -timers with MUCH less respect than full timers.

Experience in SICU more than qualifies you for PACU. Take it easy on yourself . 36 hours /week is enough for anyone to handle.

Best wishes. Let us know how it's going.

Thanks for the perspective! You're totally right about each employer giving you less respect as a PT employee yet still expecting all of the mandatory meetings, training, etc.

[chacha82, ADN, BSN]

I have done this in the past and found it to be quite challenging. Two jobs, even if they are part-time, means two sets of meetings to keep up with, competencies, etc...it depends. If you can "reign in" the competencies or professional development requirements it might not be bad. But in my experience one job always got the shorter end of the stick. I was always telling one manager I couldn't do some class or whatever. Once I had a full-time offer I took it. Everyone is different; it may be necessary for you. It is not easy and you have to be super organized!