Pay rate for new LPN grads

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Mar 26, 2015

Depending on which part of the state and job, yes too much Average start is $18-$22. Usually you don't ask, you are told this is the new grade rate take it or leave it Rarely do new grads negotiate salary

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Mar 26, 2015

I wanted to know what should I ask for as far as pay rate since I'm a new graduate?

You have no bargaining chips upon which you can negotiate as a new grad with no nursing experience. The pay rate they offer you is the rate you should accept. There is no nursing shortage in New Jersey. However, there is a horrid surplus of nurses from D.C. to Boston.

If you do not accept what is offered, this potential employer can simply hire one of hundreds of unemployed/underemployed new nurses who will accept any wage without any questions asked.

Butt3rfly · Mar 26, 2015

Thanks! I will definitely accept any pay rate. I must earn experience ðŸ˜‰

Phoenix16, RN, MSN · Mar 26, 2015

I agree with the previous post, but when I was interviewed as a new grad they did ask me what I was looking for in terms of pay( I think that was because of my experience in management on my resume) so it always good to have an idea in the event you are asked. Remember at this stage of your career you are really working for experience -sad but true. So take whatever comes and build that resume so that you can make yourself more marketable; then and only then will you have negotiating power.

My first job in MA in a nursing home $25/hr with $2/hr shift differential and $3/hr weekend differential. seeing I worked 2nd shift, on weekends I was $30/hr. I have since moved on from that job and is earning a bit more.

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Mar 26, 2015

You posted in a previous thread you are looking at a private duty nursing job. Don't be shocked if offered $15-18/hr as a new grad with $10/hr for training & orientation. You will require extensive orientation as a new grad that ultimately has to function as the single health care provider for a medically complex child or adult. PDN is shift or extended care in a home environment. You do not have back up of CNA RN LPN respiratory on location. You must have excellent assessment skills and know when to call the RN clinical manager for advice and assistance.

Even with nearly 4 years experience in private duty pediatrics from basic to most complex trach/vent & technology dependent children just last night I had to call my RN clinical manager for support & bounce off ideas for an unusual situation. No one knows everything.

Butt3rfly · Mar 28, 2015

@justbeachynurse

They can't offer me $15.-$18/hr. That's not the pay for a new LPN that's under paid for the qualifications. You were right the first time $18-22/hr.

IsmeAmanda, LPN · Mar 28, 2015

Georgia - SNF - $17-$20 per hour

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Mar 28, 2015

@justbeachynurse
They can't offer me $15.-$18/hr. That's not the pay for a new LPN that's under paid for the qualifications. You were right the first time $18-22/hr.

Employers can offer whatever rate the market will bear as long as it meets or exceeds minimum wage. It's not uncommon for private duty nursing agencies to hire new grads and pay lower wages especially if there are more new grads than jobs. It's an employers market. They even pay only $10/hr for training and orientation & precepting on cases. Why? Because they can.

There's a thread where a large agency offering RNs $10/hr pay for a 6 month new grad training program. Rate to increase to market rate ($25+) after 6 months new grad preceptorship complete. The program runs because nurses accept the job.

I know an LPN that decided her time, though completely inexperienced in healthcare, was worth $27-$35/hr as a new grad. Last I heard she was still searching for work 4+ years later. The starting rate was $15-22 depending on the employer & shift.

Butt3rfly · Mar 28, 2015

Yelp! I have a few friends that also new grads and just started working as LPN's and started at $23/hr. and $10/hr. for the orientation class. Reason why I asked the question is because all my friends are being asked, "what pay rate are you asking for?" just wanted to pick a decent number not scraps or too much knowing I'm a new nurse. I know that no one knows everything of course I may have to call the nurse manager many times to ask for whatever help in any questions I may have. I am very humble and I'm not a Ms know it all grad with excessive pride. I know I have to earn my experience and with experience I will earn more money. However, thanks for your input. Be well :)

Mewsin · Mar 30, 2015

I'm union so there is no negotiation here either but we get paid really well so I can''t complain.

Kak1206 · Mar 30, 2015

I have been an LPN for 20 years I work as a visiting nurse in Massachusetts I get paid 30.00 per patient i seen an average of 5 patienst per daat