WA State CNA pay scale?

Published

I am enrolled into a accelerated CNA class at the northwest regional training center in Vancouver which starts next month. I was wondering what is the average pay for a CNA in our state is and if I should expect any kind of benefits like medical, dental, and help paying for continuing education? I in south west Washington about 35 miles from Vancouver I am actually thinking about moving closer to the Vancouver area or up north to the Seattle tacoma area or possibly out to Spokane if I can afford to live on my own will still in school getting my LPN and RN degrees.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Case Manager/Administrator.

First let me say good luck with your education. I think NA-C's make anywhere from 10-13 dollars per hour. There are alot of choices but you do need experience for hospital or MD office employment. If you stay with an employer you could possible get tution reimbursment for continued education.

There are programs all over communities in WA find the place where you want to go to school and stick with it. You will be exposed to the medical community which will make it an easy transition from non-licensed personnel to licensed personnel.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC, rehab medicine & therapies.

When I was applying to CNA jobs, the lowest I was offered was $9/hour and the highest was $13/hour. The job I started with was around $11/hour and it was at a nursing home - full time, medical/dental, a chunk of money to help pay for school...the works. This was also a nursing home that was part of a larger "chain"...I can't speak for the more independent adult family homes.

My current employer is a hospital who wanted six months of experience as a CNA. I'm with them now, have been for awhile, really like the job. I get $15/hour with this job, with plans to increase my pay as my job continues to evolve. Full benefits with them, plus some financial help with school.

That said, if you're looking to live on your own, you'll probably want to consider the cost of living no matter where you go.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
When I was applying to CNA jobs, the lowest I was offered was $9/hour and the highest was $13/hour. The job I started with was around $11/hour and it was at a nursing home - full time, medical/dental, a chunk of money to help pay for school...the works. This was also a nursing home that was part of a larger "chain"...I can't speak for the more independent adult family homes.

My current employer is a hospital who wanted six months of experience as a CNA. I'm with them now, have been for awhile, really like the job. I get $15/hour with this job, with plans to increase my pay as my job continues to evolve. Full benefits with them, plus some financial help with school.

That said, if you're looking to live on your own, you'll probably want to consider the cost of living no matter where you go.

What hospital do you work at? I am finishing up my nursing pre-req's (hoping to start the program Fall 2010) and considering getting my CNA this summer and working as a part-time CNA during nursing school. Do you think that would be beneficial? Thanks! BTW...I am applying to Highline CC, Tacoma CC, and Peirce College as of now.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC, rehab medicine & therapies.

I work at Harborview. I'd recommend getting your CNA no matter what - it's experience, right? And experience is NEVER a bad thing. :) Good luck with your applications!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC.

I have been a cna for 5 plus years and many worked in LTC. Everyone said that you need @ least one year experience to work in the hospitals, and was wondering how I can get in or even get ex. Just doesnt make sence. I need to get hired in to get ex. right? I would like to work @ TG. Any suggestions?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion