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Travel Nursing Jobs in Wisconsin

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• The most jobs in the industry. We have the largest and most reliable job database, which means the jobs you see are open, updated in real time and ready for you!
• Competitive advantage over other agencies. Front-of-the-line access through our direct facility relationships — many with quick (even same-day) offers, giving you the best chance of securing your ideal opportunity.
• Expedited licensing and streamlined compliance. An industry-leading on-time start rate and strong relationships with boards of nursing across the country to accelerate the process in all 50 states.
• Expert career guidance. A dedicated recruiter to help you achieve your dream career. Travel, per diem, permanent — we have the reach and access to get you the jobs you want, and the expertise to help you realize your long-term goals.
• A best-in-class support system and an exceptional experience. Enjoy accurate, weekly pay, and an entire team dedicated to your happiness on assignment, 24/7.

Plus, you get everything you expect from the largest healthcare staffing company in the industry:

• Exceptional benefits, including premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance beginning day one of your assignment. Want to take time off? Keep insurance coverage for up to 24 days between assignments.
• A generous 401(k) match.
• Paid company housing (we'll help you bring your pets along, too!) or a generous housing stipend.
• Paid sick time in accordance with all applicable state, federal, and local laws. Aya's general sick leave policy is that employees accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. However, to the extent any provisions of the statement above conflict with any applicable paid sick leave laws, the applicable paid sick leave laws are controlling.
• The industry's only clinical ladder program for RNs on assignment.
• Access to unlimited continuing education units online.
• Licensure, relocation and other reimbursements, when applicable.
• Pay listed above includes taxable wages and tax-free expense reimbursements.

For all employees and employee applicants, Aya is an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") Employer, including Disability/Vets, and welcomes all to apply. Please click here for our EEO policy.

• A rental car and bi-weekly weekend travel home.

With Aya Locums you get:

• Access to top hospitals and healthcare systems in diverse care settings.
• Highly competitive, transparent locum tenens pay.
• Dedicated application and assignment support.
• In-house credentialing and licensing teams.
• Full coverage of licensing costs.
• Travel and lodging coverage.
• Easy timekeeping and streamlined management of documents.
• Malpractice coverage and risk management support.
• Premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance beginning day one of your assignment.
• Paid sick time. Aya provides paid sick leave in accordance with all applicable state, federal, and local laws. Aya's general sick leave policy is that employees accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. However, to the extent any provisions of the statement above conflict with any applicable paid sick leave laws, the applicable paid sick leave laws are controlling.
• Generous 401k match.
• Aya may provide other benefits where required by applicable law, including but not limited to reimbursements.
• Aya coordinates all travel and lodging accommodations.
• Travel information is received the evening prior to your scheduled departure.
• Airfare is covered and, if driving to the assignment, reimbursement is available.
• Once notice is received, communication from our team is sent via email and text to ensure you are kept in the loop as soon as information becomes available.
• Your safety is Aya's top priority. We work closely with the facility to ensure additional security measures are taken onsite so you can focus on what really matters: patient care.
• Licensure, relocation and other reimbursements.

Experience the Aya difference today

• A dedicated recruiter who advocates for you every step of the way.
• We'll ensure the hiring manager prioritizes your interest and schedules an interview quickly.
• A streamlined hiring process means offers are often presented within 24-48 hours after an interview with a hiring leader.
• Flexible start dates that work around your availability.
• We make it simple with one point of contact the entire time.
• University of Washington (UW) offers a wide range of benefits as part of your total compensation package. Choose from top medical and dental insurance programs; plan for your future with tax-deferred investing through the UW retirement options; enjoy generous vacation and sick leave policies; and protect yourself and your family with life and long-term disability insurance. For more information, follow the links shown below or explore the Benefits website at http://hr.uw.edu/benefits/

With Aya, you get:

• Higher compensation - we negotiate on your behalf.
• Work-life balance - contracts are up to 40 hours per week, with workdays ending mid-late afternoon and weekends off!
• An employee advocate - our team ensures you have the support needed to be successful in your role.
• Options post contract - extend, convert to a permanent employee or find a new job.
• Paid company housing (pets are welcome to tag along) or a generous housing stipend.
• If qualified, continued insurance coverage over the summer.
• A generous 401k match.
• A robust team to support you every step of the way.
• A credentialing specialist to streamline the entire compliance process.
• Freedom and flexibility around your current schedule.
• The easy-to-use Shifts app. Select shifts anytime, anywhere.
• Premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance.
• Front-of-the-line access to exclusive jobs at thousands of healthcare facilities nationwide.
• A robust team to support you every step of the way to ensure you start on time, have accurate payroll and an exceptional experience.
• Certification and other reimbursements, when applicable.

Thinking of Wisconsin brings to mind the taste of cheddar cheese, images of idyllic farms and the passion of its football fans. All of these things and more are found in “America’s Dairyland.”

Wisconsin’s geography is diverse – from the Central Plains in the west to the lowlands that stretch to the shores of Lake Michigan and the largest city in the state, Milwaukee. Boasting pro sporting events, arts, theatre, fine dining, vibrant nightlife, shopping and more, Milwaukee has everything you could hope to find in a large city. Located mere minutes from downtown, the Potawatomi Hotel and Casino offers everything the novice or veteran gambler could desire from slots to poker to horse racing.

If you want to experience the beating heart of Wisconsin, look no further than Lambeau Field. Home of the Green Bay Packers, this awesome structure seats over 80,000 screaming fans who love their team so much you would think wearing green and gold on game days is a government mandate.

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Wisconsin Travel Nurse Jobs

Find travel nursing jobs in wisconsin, wisconsin travel nursing jobs by specialty.

The most popular nursing specialties with positions available in Wisconsin include:

Cardiac Cath Lab Cardio ICU Cardio OR Case Management ER (Emergency Room) ICU (Intensive Care Unit)

Interventional Radiology L&D (Labor & Delivery) LTC/SNF Medical Surgical NICU OR (Operating Room)

PACU Psychiatric Unit Radiology Stepdown Telemetry Wound Care

Everything you need to know about Travel Nursing in Wisconsin

With a middle-of-the-road cost of living, an abundance of travel nursing jobs, cool cities, Midwestern charm, and, of course, all that world-famous cheese and dairy, Wisconsin might be the perfect spot for your next travel nurse assignment. (Don’t worry vegans, there’s plenty here for you to love too!) They may call Minnesota the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but Wisconsin is no slouch in this area either with more than 14,000 lakes for you to explore on your days off. Maybe you can collect them all! Let’s explore deeper about why Wisconsin’s such a traveler favorite. Keep reading to learn more, search Wisconsin travel nurse jobs , or apply now to take the next step in your career in care.

Travel Nursing in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a great state and a wonderful location for your next travel nursing assignment. When you take a job with Medical Solutions in The Badger State, you’ll have access to travel nurse jobs that offer great pay and benefits — all with our incredible human-first service and support.

Wisconsin has lots of traveler-friendly healthcare facilities. U.S. News & World Report ’s 2020/2021 Best Hospitals list evaluated 149 hospitals in Wisconsin — 13 of which met high U.S. News standards and are ranked in the state. The #1-ranked hospital is University of Wisconsin Hospitals in Madison, followed by #2-ranked Froedtert Hospital and the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, #3-ranked Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center in Milwaukee, #4-ranked Mayo Clinic Eau Claire in Eau Claire, and #5-ranked Aurora Medical Center-Grafton in Grafton. Wisconsin also has many other great facilities and clinics throughout the state where you might find a travel nursing job that fits your needs.

U.S. News & World Report ’s 2021 Best States list ranked Wisconsin at #8 overall, #8 for education, #9 for opportunity and fiscal stability, and #15 for healthcare. With its high overall rank and other great marks, plus its many cool cities and natural beauty, Wisconsin is a wonderful travel nursing location. In The Badger State, you can earn great pay at one of the state’s traveler-friendly facilities while having all kinds of fun on your days off!

Wisconsin is currently a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) . The NLC lets nurses practice in other NLC states without having to get additional state licenses. New states frequently join so keep an eye on the latest NLC map . Also, our team can always help you with Wisconsin state licensing questions.

Quick Wisconsin Facts

State Nickname : The Badger State

Capital City : Madison

Largest Cities : Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, Racine

Charming Towns : New Glarus, Lake Geneva, Sturgeon Bay, Fish Creek, Wisconsin Dells

Cost of Living : 25th-lowest cost of living in U.S.

Average RN Salary : $74,760

Random Trivia : Wisconsin has 14,000-plus lakes and almost 7,500 stream and rivers.

To Do and See in Wisconsin

From rolling hills dotted with cows to beautiful cities to glacier-carved lakes and sandstone formations, Wisconsin is a gorgeous location for your next travel job.

  Madison’s the perfect college town, with lots of youthful energy, plus great music, art, restaurants, shops, and culture. Milwaukee — not just the hometown of Laverne and Shirley — wows with its many to-dos. Stroll, kayak, or cruise the Milwaukee River, or hit up Bradford Beach, Sculpture Milwaukee, Brady Street, the Pabst Mansion, Milwaukee Art Museum, the Harley Davidson Museum, and tons more.

Oh, and all those 14,000 lakes? They’re also accompanied by 7,500 rivers and streams, making Wisconsin a wonderful location for travelers who love to be in, on, or near the water. Enjoy stunning sights like Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Devil’s Lake State Park, Mirror Lake State Park, and so much more.

Speaking of lakes — glacial water supply, tons of cows munching on the state’s ample grasslands, and a long history of expert cheesemakers have combined forces to earn Wisconsin’s nickname: America’s Dairyland. So, if you love cheese and dairy, you’ll also love the food here. Not to be cheesy, but it’s truly some of the world’s best and you can enjoy incredible beer cheese soup, cheese plates, cheese curds, and other such delights. The Badger State also loves its butter burgers, bratwurst, fish fries, hot ham and rolls, Cornish pasty, cream puffs, and frozen custard. You can wash it all down with a craft brewski from one of the state’s micro or macro breweries.

We connect care by staffing top healthcare facilities in Wisconsin  with brilliant Travel Nurses .

Checkmark A checkmark in a circle that is dark. Personalized Pay Packages

Travel Nurses working in Wisconsin enjoy a personalized payment package with great wage rates, licensure and certification reimbursement, a 401(k) with an immediately vested company contribution, loyalty and referral bonuses, and more.

Checkmark A checkmark in a circle that is dark. Great Benefits

We offer our travel nurses and travel allied health professionals day one medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus the option of several additional voluntary benefits, including life, long-term disability, critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, and AD&D insurance.

Checkmark A checkmark in a circle that is dark. Employee Assistance Program

Current travelers also have automatic, free access to our employee assistance program (EAP) through Cigna, which includes eight free counseling sessions and many more free resources to support you and your family in every facet of life.

Checkmark A checkmark in a circle that is dark. Travel Nurse Housing

When it comes to making a home in your latest location, Medical Solutions travelers have the option of company-provided, private, fully furnished, secure, pet-friendly housing arranged by our expert housing team or a non-taxable housing stipend that helps you arrange and pay for your own housing costs, depending on your eligibility and location.

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Travel Nurse Jobs in Wisconsin

Welcome to Wisconsin, a state renowned for its natural beauty, vibrant communities, and top-notch healthcare facilities. From the bustling city life of Milwaukee to the charming small towns of Madison and Green Bay, Wisconsin offers travel nurses and allied health professionals an array of exciting opportunities to grow their careers while experiencing the unique charm of the Midwest.

103 Travel Nurse Jobs

• $3,397 /wk Open Job Details Page Marshfield, WI Intermediate Care Unit RN June 17th ( 13 wks )  
• $3,397 /wk Open Job Details Page Marshfield, WI Intermediate Care Unit RN June 24th ( 13 wks )  
• $3,397 /wk Open Job Details Page Marshfield, WI Intermediate Care Unit RN Start ASAP ( 13 wks )  
• $2,815 /wk Open Job Details Page Madison, WI Post Anesthesia Care Unit RN July 8th ( 13 wks )  
• $2,533 /wk Open Job Details Page Madison, WI Pediatric Intensive Care Unit RN Start ASAP ( 13 wks )  
• $2,546 /wk Open Job Details Page Madison, WI Peri-Op RN June 24th ( 13 wks )  
• $2,546 /wk Open Job Details Page Madison, WI Hematology/Oncology Unit RN June 17th ( 13 wks )  
• $2,535 /wk Open Job Details Page Marshfield, WI Medical Surgical / Telemetry Unit RN June 24th ( 13 wks )  

Travel RN, LPN/LVN, and Allied Health Jobs

At Trusted Health, we understand the importance of finding the perfect fit for your healthcare career. We provide travel nurses and allied health professionals navigate the job search process in Wisconsin with ease. Our platform connects you with leading healthcare facilities across the state, from world-class hospitals in Milwaukee to rural clinics in La Crosse and Eau Claire. With our intuitive job board, personalized support, and comprehensive career resources, Trusted Health empowers you to find rewarding opportunities and make a difference in the lives of patients across Wisconsin.

What are the licensing requirements for travel nurses and allied health professionals in Wisconsin? In Wisconsin, travel nurses must secure state licensure, while allied health professionals may also need licensing, depending on their specific roles. It's important to note that Wisconsin is a member of the  Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) , which allows nurses with multistate licenses to practice in participating states without needing additional licenses. At Trusted Health, we understand the importance of navigating these requirements seamlessly. That's why we offer comprehensive resources like our  Nursing Licensure Guide and  Allied Career Guide . These resources are designed to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth transition into your new role. What are the typical housing options for healthcare professionals in Wisconsin? Housing options in Wisconsin vary depending on the location and preferences of healthcare professionals. In urban areas like Milwaukee and Madison, professionals may find apartments or condominiums near healthcare facilities. In rural areas, options may include single-family homes, duplexes, or temporary housing provided by healthcare facilities. Trusted Health offers housing resources and support to help professionals secure suitable accommodations during their assignments in Wisconsin. What are the most in-demand specialties in Wisconsin for healthcare professionals? In Wisconsin, healthcare facilities often seek professionals in specialties such as critical care, emergency medicine, cardiology, and mental health. Allied health professionals in fields such as nursing, respiratory therapy, and radiology are also in high demand to support patient care across diverse healthcare settings. How do I navigate transportation and logistics in Wisconsin, especially in rural areas? Transportation options in Wisconsin include public transit, ridesharing services, and personal vehicles. In rural areas, travel nurses and allied health professionals may need to rely on personal vehicles for commuting to healthcare facilities. Trusted Health provides guidance on transportation options and assists professionals in accessing resources for navigating transportation challenges, especially in rural communities. What opportunities are available for professional development and continuing education in Wisconsin? Wisconsin offers numerous opportunities for professional development and continuing education in healthcare. From accredited universities and medical centers to online courses and professional conferences, there are ample resources for travel nurses and allied health professionals to enhance their skills and advance their careers. Trusted Health provides access to career resources to support professional growth and development in Wisconsin's dynamic healthcare landscape.

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Wisconsin Travel Nursing Jobs

Jobs listing, what to see and do.

Outside of the obvious aforementioned obsession with Cheese in Wisconsin, there are also plenty of family filled destinations that may even interest someone on their own as they spend some time in the State on their work assignment.   Entertainment includes the Wisconsin Dells indoor and outdoor water park and the Circus World Museum in Baraboo, where the Ringling Bros. Circus started in 1884.  It is a gateway to the Great Lakes and a winter wonderland for outdoor adventurers.

Lambeau Field, the home of the Packers, acts as a sort of Wisconsin Mecca for sports fans and visitors alike.  If you are there in the fall, we strongly suggest a sampling of all the hype and the tradition that goes hand in hand with the event.

Travel Nurses looking for a relaxing getaway can visit Lake Geneva, filled with boutique shops and restaurants.  Lake Geneva is a classic lakefront resort town known as “Newport of the West,” where you can take a cruise around the lake and hike paths nestled between century-old mansions.

Find a Travel Nursing Job

Make new friends and learn new skills in Wisconsin in no time. Stability Healthcare can’t wait to get you on the road to Wisconsin with a Travel Nurse Assignment! Apply Now or Call us for any Wisconsin RN jobs:

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Find your outdoor playground with travel nursing jobs in wisconsin, travel nursing reviews, jennifer, rn.

The response time from my recruiter and nurse specialist is amazing! They both have been so great to work with on my first assignment out in California!!! Chad and Samantha both are super caring and very responsive! I already extended my contract with the hospital because of the smooth process. They made the transition from Florida to California a lot loss stressful than I imagined. Would definitely recommend them both!!!

My recruiter, and other staff I have had the pleasure of interacting with, are all so friendly and helpful. My recruiter is responsive, and even reached out while she was on vacation to check on me! I’ve worked with other agencies in the past, but Stability is next level when it comes to making your travel nursing experience as seamless as possible! Special shout out to Lindsay (best recruiter ever) and Tracy. Amazing people to work with.

Brittany J.

My recruiter is very responsive and personable. I have NEVER had any issues with them!! This agency even has PTO! None of my co workers with other agencies have this benefit!! Also the rates are equal or higher than most other agencies!! Everything feels more like family than business and for that I would choose stability over any other agency!! I am so happy I chose to work with them!

Sopheare C.

My recruiter Amanda is amazing and always timely with her responses. Debbie who is my nurse experience specialist who is with me all times of the contract is truly awesome. Love how responsive she is and will answer any and all my questions. Big thanks to Jesse my compliance coordinator for making all the appointments and getting me travel ready. Can’t thank my team enough for all they do. Any question or issue I have they resolve right away. And I love that they breakdown each contract into a spread so you know exactly what your getting for the terms of the contract.

I have been incredibly impressed by the professionalism, ease of communication, ability to have all requirements for onboarding fulfilled in a timely manner, and just overall outstanding service. Lindsay Hernandez is my particular recruiter and she has been a pleasure to work with, as well as all the team members at Stability. I’m looking forward to staying with them for my next assignment. I highly recommend them to my nursing friends, and anyone looking to travel as a nurse!

Travel Nurse Experiences

• May 29, 2024
• by Leslie Catalano

• April 22, 2024
• by Myah Christenson

• April 12, 2024

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How to Become a Travel Nurse

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• Career Overview
• Steps to Become
• Education Options
• Certification and Specialization

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Are you interested in a financially rewarding nursing career that offers the flexibility to take short-term assignments across the country and abroad? The nursing shortage has increased the demand for travel nurses in every type of healthcare setting, often in underserved communities in both urban and rural locations. Employers offer higher pay and more generous benefits to travel nurses with certain specialties, such as ICU or neonatal nursing, or those holding advanced practice registered nursing licenses.

Keep reading to learn how to become a travel nurse, what kind of license and certifications you need to enter the field, and what to expect on the job.

How Long to Become 2-4 years

Degree Required ADN or BSN

Average Annual Salary $83,386

Source: Payscale , May 2024

What Is a Travel Nurse?

A travel nurse is a skilled nursing professional willing to take short-term assignments locally, across the U.S., and even internationally . These assignments can last from a few weeks to several months. Instead of seeking permanent positions in healthcare facilities, these nursing professionals find temporary placements using the services of staffing agencies that specialize in travel nursing. Travel nurse contracts outline the start and end dates for the placement, total compensation for the duration of the assignment, and work expectations.

The demand for registered nurses has increased throughout the healthcare industry, along with critical nursing shortages in some geographic locations and in high-demand specializations. Travel nurses have stepped in to fill these gaps. According to data compiled by Zippia , there are 1,733,502 traveling nurses currently employed in the United States. For comparison’s sake, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that as of 2023 there were about 3.2 million registered nurses (RN) employed in the U.S.

Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Steps to Becoming a Travel Nurse

A travel nurse must meet the same educational and clinical requirements as all registered nurses (RNs). You must first earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). According to the Zippia data, 47% of travel nurses have a BSN degree, more than any other degree type.

Once you earn your degree, you need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and acquire your state nursing license. Because employers expect travel nurses to immediately begin working, travel nurse staffing agencies typically look for applicants with at least one year of clinical experience. Specializations and certifications can give you an advantage.

Earn an ADN or BSN Degree From an Accredited Program.

Travel nurses must earn an ADN or a BSN to qualify for RN licensure. An ADN offers the fastest pathway to an RN nursing career. However, a BSN, which typically takes four years to complete, provides graduates with a higher level of training and clinical experience, leading to broader employment opportunities. The major travel nurse staffing agencies and large healthcare systems prefer to hire RNs with a BSN degree.

Pass the NCLEX Exam to Receive RN Licensure.

You need to pass the National Council Licensure Exam for RNs (NCLEX-RN) to earn an RN license. This computer-adaptive test takes up to six hours and covers nursing practice, conditions and treatments, how the healthcare system works, legal and ethical issues, and patient communication and education.

Gain Clinical Nursing Experience.

The more clinical experience you have, the more likely you will find a placement. Most agencies only consider applicants with a minimum of one year of experience. However, some healthcare contracts require two years or more of clinical experience. Travel nurses must have the skills and background to jump into assignments without on-the-job training or orientations, adjusting to new environments, staff, and procedures.

Find a Travel Nursing Agency.

Nurse staffing agencies have grown in popularity, filling the nursing shortage gap resulting from RNs who retire or leave the workforce. Consequently, many agencies have emerged that specialize in travel nurse staffing. Travel nurse agencies advertise for specific positions, often recruiting at nursing school career offices, professional associations, and online. Before working with a travel nurse agency, it is important to research its reputation. When evaluating agencies, you should compare if the contracts they offer meet your expectations about available locations, types of assignments, salary and benefits, and travel and housing arrangements.

Begin Your First Travel Nursing Assignment.

Because travel nurses work in multiple settings with varied patient populations , duties and responsibilities differ for each new assignment. In most cases, you will receive little on-the-job training. Depending on the employer, your first shift may begin with a full orientation or just a brief introduction to the facility’s procedures and policies. You may be paired with a nurse for your first few days, but then you will be expected to work independently soon after.

While some travel staffing agencies handle housing arrangements to help you settle into your new environment, you may decide to find your own accommodations to save on living expenses.

Travel Nurse Education

Different employers and positions have different travel nurse requirements. Generally, it takes at least two years to earn an ADN, the minimum requirement to become an RN.

Most travel nurse positions require a BSN, but some nurses start with an ADN, which takes two years to complete rather than the four years required for a BSN. Many BSN programs offer RN-to-BSN bridge programs .

Admission Materials

Program curriculum, time to complete, skills learned.

All travel nurses must be licensed RNs by earning an undergraduate nursing degree, either a BSN or an ADN, and passing the NCLEX-RN examination. However, many employers require or strongly prefer a BSN.

Travel Nurse Licensure

If you plan on becoming a travel nurse, you must have a valid nursing license in the state where you intend to practice. If the state where you earned your initial RN license participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), you do not need to apply for another license to work in any other NLC state. However, not all states are NLC members . If your intended travel nurse assignment is located in a non-NLC state, you must apply for a license in that specific state before starting your contract. Some states have expedited processes for temporary licenses, and certain staffing agencies can assist you with the application process.

Maintaining an active license as a travel nurse is no different than for other RNs. You need to renew your RN license periodically, meeting the specific requirements for contact hours and continuing education units in your home state. If you are working in a non-NLC state, you must meet the renewal requirements for that jurisdiction.

Travel Nursing Certification and Specialization

RNs often choose to earn specialty nurse certifications in a variety of areas, including emergency care, pediatrics, obstetrics, and infection control. While earning a certification may not be required for a certain position, a specialization helps distinguish you from other job applicants and may boost your salary.

According to a 2019 travel nurse compensation report , the demand for travel nurses is highest for those with specializations in ICU, medical-surgical, operating room, and emergency room nursing. ICU nurses, the most in-demand travel nurse specialty, accounts for 16.5% of all travel nurses. Healthcare employers and staffing agencies often look for travel nurses with specialties in particular patient populations, including neonatal nursing and pediatrics, or those with experience in specific types of services, such as emergency and critical care nursing.

Working as a Travel Nurse

Travel nurses fill temporary assignments wherever nurses are needed. They may find placements in hospitals and clinics facing nursing shortages, community health facilities, and healthcare organizations in the U.S. and abroad that must respond to public health crises, disease outbreaks, and other medical emergencies. The average travel nurse contract lasts between 13 and 26 weeks, but hours and shifts vary widely depending on the assignment.

Travel nurse salaries also vary by setting, location, and specialization. According to Vivian , a major healthcare hiring service, the average weekly pay for travel nurses is $2,104 or $44.79 an hour, compared to $42.80 per hour for RNs overall, according to BLS data . However, earnings can range from $458 weekly for the lowest-paid travel nurses to $6,419 for the top earners, and some travel nurses may be given a housing/relocation stipend.

Although working as a travel nurse has many benefits, there are some potential downsides. Travel nurses may be required to complete onboarding for each new contract they begin, even if they have already previously worked at a facility. This process can require time-consuming steps, such as providing proof of vaccination, fingerprinting, and documentation of your medical history, which can delay your start date.

Some travel nurses have difficulty finding affordable housing options for the duration of their contract. You can review a travel agency’s benefits to determine if they may provide assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Travel Nurse

Do travel nurses get benefits.

In addition to the attractive salaries, some travel nurse placements offer benefits. These may include medical and dental coverage, 401K contributions, sign-on bonuses, and stipends for housing, travel and per-diem living expenses.

Can travel nurses choose where they work?

One of the major perks of working as a travel nurse is the flexibility to choose when and where to work. However, your ability to choose your placement depends on the demand for your particular specialty or the number of available positions in the location where you want to work.

What is the best degree to become a travel nurse?

Many staffing agencies prefer to hire travel nurses who have completed a bachelor of science in nursing. A BSN equips nurses with a solid foundation of nursing knowledge and skills. This can prepare them for a travel nursing role, where they may need to transition between healthcare facilities and effectively adapt to diverse patient populations and settings.

How do I find a travel nurse staffing agency?

Travel nurse staffing agencies may recruit at nursing schools, through referrals, or through advertisements for specific positions or general placements. You can also look online for travel nurse staffing agencies or discover agencies through networking. Be sure to double check references and the agency’s reputation.

Related Pages

What to Know About Working as an International Travel Nurse

If you love traveling and want to become a nurse, consider the growing field of international travel nursing. Choose from many well-paying positions in a variety of destinations all over the world.

The 7 Top States for Travel Nurses (Fall)

The travel nurse industry is rapidly expanding. If you’d like to plan your first or next assignment, consider these top seven states for your fall destination.

How to Become an International Travel Nurse

International travel nursing offers great pay and adventure. Take these steps to get your first international assignment.

Page last reviewed on April 7, 2024

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

• If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
• Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel. 

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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The 20 Most Stressful Jobs

How does your career compare when it comes to stress? Take a look at the most stressful jobs.

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Stressful jobs can be fulfilling because they make a difference – in people’s health, public safety or a company's bottom line. And high-stress jobs often come with high pay. Find out whether your job is among the most stressful careers, according to experts, and how it compares with other high-stress careers from U.S. News' 100 Best Jobs ranking . Data comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Anesthesiologist

Median salary: $239,200 Education needed: Doctoral or professional degree Expected job growth by 2032: 2.6%

Anesthesiologists are health care professionals who monitor patient health during a procedure, adjusting the amount of anesthetic to relieve pain. "The need for precision and constant vigilance, coupled with the potential for severe complications and the unpredictability of patient responses, makes this a highly stressful job," organizational psychologist Etty Burk said in an email.

Learn more about anesthesiologists .

Business Operations Manager

Median salary: $98,100 Education needed: Bachelor’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 4.2%

Business operations managers are responsible for managing all business operations and setting organizational goals. "Their stress often stems from managing budgets and optimizing processes, all while meeting organizational goals and deadlines – often without control over external factors like the business market and employee behavior that can impact outcomes," Burk said.

Learn more about business operations managers .

Clinical Social Worker

Median salary: $60,280 Education needed: Master’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 9.6%

Clinical social workers are licensed social workers who can diagnose and treat individuals with behavioral, mental and emotional conditions.

While it can be rewarding, social work can be a stressful profession. “It used to be that jobs that had lives on the line every day, like first responders, were believed to face the most stress. While their jobs are still incredibly challenging, roles that involve supporting our communities have seen dramatic demands for their time and energy,” Kelly Roehm, career consultant and a senior certified professional by the Society of Human Resources Management, wrote in an email.

Learn more about clinical social workers .

Community Health Worker

Median salary: $46,190 Education needed: High school diploma or equivalent Expected job growth by 2032: 14.1%

Community health workers rank No. 2 among the Best Jobs Without a College Degree and No. 4 among the Best Social Services Jobs . They work with community and health professionals to promote wellness.

According to Roehm, because communities often lack adequate resources, these workers are often paid far less than other health care professionals. “Coupled with loss of funding, increasing caseloads and burnout have impacted these vital workers,” she said.

Learn more about community health workers .

Child and Family Social Worker

Median salary: $50,820 Education needed: Bachelor’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 5.3%

Child and family social workers provide interventions and support to ensure the well-being of children and families in need. “Post-COVID, we saw rising rates of children in school struggling to keep up and parents trying to balance child care and work, which is why children's services workers are carrying a heavy load,” Roehm said.

Learn more about child and family social workers .

Median salary: $155,040 Education needed: Doctoral or professional degree Expected job growth by 2032: 4.4%

Dentists identify and treat problems with a patient's mouth, gums and teeth. Career counselor Lynn Berger says that dentists have one of the most stressful jobs because most patients don’t like going to the dentist and may even feel scared or uncomfortable.

Managing the emotions that patients experience can be mentally taxing. “The most stressful occupations are those with much responsibility and not a lot of positive reward and feedback,” she explained in an email.

Learn more about dentists .

Firefighter

Median salary: $51,680 Education needed: Postsecondary nondegree award Expected job growth by 2032: 3.6%

Firefighters are responsible for responding to emergency situations involving fires, hazardous materials and other disasters.

“Firefighters work in dangerous and high-pressure environments where split-second decisions can mean life or death,” Conor Hughes, an SHRM senior certified professional and HR consultant, wrote in an email.

Learn more about firefighters .

Financial Analyst

Median salary: $90,680 Education needed: Bachelor’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 8.2%

Financial analysts are responsible for analyzing financial data, trends and market conditions to help businesses make informed financial decisions. While they make lucrative salaries, their job is not easy. "The need for accuracy, staying updated on market trends and making impactful decisions under tight deadlines is compounded by the volatility of financial markets, which financial analysts cannot influence," Burk said.

Learn more about financial analysts .

High School Teacher

Median salary: $62,360 Education needed: Bachelor’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 1%

In the U.S., high school teachers typically teach students from the ninth through 12th grades. While working with teenagers can be rewarding, it can be stressful as well.

“Educators often work long hours for little pay while managing overloaded classrooms, meeting strict curriculum standards and dealing with challenging student behaviors. This results in high attrition,” Hughes explained.

Learn more about high school teachers .

HR Specialist

Median salary: $63,080 Education needed: Bachelor’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 6.3%

Human resources specialists’ duties can include helping with recruiting, facilitating employee onboarding and supporting employees in managing their compensation and benefits packages. “HR specialists are typically the most stressed role for a good three weeks during performance reviews and compensation processes,” Daniel Space, senior HR business partner director, wrote in an email.

Learn more about HR specialists .

Median salary: $135,740 Education needed: Doctoral or professional degree Expected job growth by 2032: 7.5%

Lawyers rank No. 1 among the Best Social Services Jobs and No. 14 among the Best-Paying Jobs. They’re licensed professionals who provide legal advice to individuals or businesses in one or more areas of law.

“The adversarial nature of law combined with billable hour requirements, client demands and high-stakes cases create a pressure-cooker environment for many attorneys. If you’re in this field, my advice is to set boundaries, delegate tasks when possible and build time for stress management,” Hughes said.

Learn more about lawyers .

Marriage and Family Therapist

Median salary: $56,570 Education needed: Master’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 14.9%

Marriage and family therapists are mental health professionals licensed to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couples and family systems.

While this career can be fulfilling, it's rather demanding. "The challenge of providing effective support while maintaining professional boundaries can be emotionally draining, and factors beyond their control can influence the progress of therapy," Burk explained.

Learn more about marriage and family therapists .

Mental Health Counselor

Median salary: $51,240 Education needed: Bachelor’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 10.6%

Mental health counselors assist patients with processing life experiences that can lead to grief and trauma. Of course, helping people achieve better mental health is deeply rewarding, but it could leave you feeling drained.

Also, as the pandemic led to rising mental health needs, mental health counselors experienced increasing caseloads, more stress and higher burnout rates.

Learn more about mental health counselors .

Nurse Practitioner

Median salary: $121,610 Education needed: Master’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 44.5%

Nurse practitioners rank No. 1 among the 100 Best Jobs, the Best STEM Jobs and the Best Health Care Jobs .

Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with additional education, which allows them to take patient histories, perform physical exams, order labs, prescribe medicine and even authorize treatment plans.

“However, due to the high-stakes nature of their profession, their enormous workloads, irregular hours and their frequent exposure to patient trauma and suffering, nurse practitioners, along with physicians and other frontline health care workers confront extreme stress,” Hughes said.

Learn more about nurse practitioners .

Median salary: $49,090 Education needed: High school diploma or equivalent Expected job growth by 2032: 5.4%

Paramedics are highly trained professionals who assess, treat and transport patients who need urgent medical attention. Being a paramedic can be rewarding but mentally and physically taxing.

“Paramedics operate in dangerous, high-pressure environments where split-second decisions can mean life or death. The threat of violence combined with witnessing trauma on a regular basis contributes to extremely high rates of PTSD, depression and anxiety among first responders,” Hughes said.

Learn more about paramedics .

Patrol Officer

Median salary: $65,790 Education needed: High school diploma or equivalent Expected job growth by 2032: 3.3%

Patrol officers are members of local or state law enforcement agencies responsible for preventing illegal activity and protecting communities. Exposure to violence, crime and the physical demands of the job can all contribute to a high stress level.

If you’re interested in becoming a patrol officer, Hughes recommends that you seek counseling, peer support and stress management training to keep your mental health in check.

Learn more about patrol officers .

Median salary: $227,180 Education needed: Doctoral or professional degree Expected job growth by 2032: 3.1%

Physicians, or primary care doctors, are patients' first stop when they experience health issues like headaches or heart problems.

Because of the high-stakes nature of their profession, heavy workloads and frequent exposure to patient trauma, physicians and other frontline health care workers are often under a tremendous level of stress.

Learn more about physicians .

Sales Managers

Median salary: $130,600 Education needed: Bachelor’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 4%

Sales managers rank No. 2 among the Best Sales and Marketing Jobs and No. 17 among the Best-Paying Jobs.

Sales managers are responsible for orchestrating an organization’s sales process, including product development, customer response and data collection. "This profession can be stressful since you must face the pressure of meeting or exceeding sales targets. You must also motivate your team, handle rejections and adapt to market changes. Plus, success is often dependent on market conditions and customer behavior that you cannot control," Burk said.

Learn more about sales managers.

Software Developer

Median salary: $127,260 Education needed: Bachelor’s degree Expected job growth by 2032: 25.7%

Software developers rank No. 1 among the Best Technology Jobs and No. 2 among the Best STEM Jobs.

Although software developers earn lucrative salaries, especially those who work at top companies like Meta or Google, the job can be stressful and fast-paced. These professionals use their design and coding skills to create software for clients and users. According to Space, they can sometimes feel “extremely stressed between product updates and launches.”

Learn more about software developers .

Median salary: $239,200 Education needed: Doctoral or professional degree Expected job growth by 2032: 1.7%

Surgeons operate on people in need of medical treatment related to diseases, broken bones and other issues. An error made in a critical procedure can change someone’s life or be fatal, which is why surgeons are often under high stress.

If you’re interested in entering this career field, Hughes recommends that you try to separate your professional life from your personal one. “It's very easy to allow the suffering you see at work to influence your personal energy,” he said.

Learn more about surgeons .

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