Receiving casual work only???

dishes, BSN, RN · Jun 8, 2017

Nursing jobs go through surplus and shortage cycles based on economic and political factors and most cities and well populated areas in Canada are currently in a surplus cycle. If you look at the current economy, job precarity and the number of new grads that are being churned out, it should come as no surprise that jobs are hard to come by in your area.

theRPN2b · Jun 8, 2017

I am casual in a hospital setting in Ontario. I started last year, and ever since then I have been working full time hours (lots of sick calls,vacation coverage).

In my hospital system it can take years to have enough seniority get a full time position,can even take a while to get regular part time sometimes. But right know I actually prefer working casual so I don't mind.

I am not familiar with the job market for nurses in BC, but if you want to stay in the area you live and get enough shifts each month, you may need to look for a second (or even maybe a 3rd) job. Apply everywhere (LTC,Home care, hospital, clinics/doctor's offices,hospice).It will be a little bit easier to find another job now that you have some experience to put on you resume. But if you prefer to have a full time/regular part time position sooner rather than later, you may need to relocate further up north, at least for some time

Fiona59 · Jun 8, 2017

It took me seven months to find a casual job on VI a decade ago. And I had experience in some specialized areas. Lucky to get one shift a week.

The lower mainland and the Island has always been a tough market. At least you are in an area where you could be casual in multiple facilities.

dayandnight · Jun 11, 2017

Hi everyone!
This is my first question I have posted here however I have been reading dozens of posts for a long time!
Anywhooo...
I am a recent LPN grad and I have been called for many interviews however ... they all offer me casual positions!! Is this normal? I live in BC in the lower mainland.. I know if I go up north they are highly short staff and will be offered full/part-time but at the moment that isn't possible.
I am really thankful that i'm even getting calls for interviews but right now I am working only 2-3 shifts a month!
BTW I have only applied at LTC facilities because I like geriatric care... What would happen if I apply at hospitals? I never see any posting on Fraser Health about hiring LPNs.
How long did it take you to get a full or part-time line?
Thank you!

That is very normal. Even RNs can only start out as casuals as a new grad. Work lots, get a second or third job if need be, gain lots of seniority hours and within a year or so, you will be able to get better opportunities. Get into the hospital though or get into a health authority residential care or rehabilitation facility because you can get more shifts as well as having opportunities to move onto hospitals in the future.

neongloss · Jun 15, 2017

It's pretty normal, yeah. I started off as a casual, then they offered me temporary full-time. But even as a casual at a LTC, I got full-time hours (I did a PSW shift with nursing pay as well... put yourself out there and ask scheduling coordinators for shifts). You'll be getting a lot of hours to cover for summer vacations too, I'm sure.