As a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you are responsible for providing primary care to patients in a healthcare setting. This includes helping with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Once you have completed your training program and certification exam, it is time to start looking for a job as a CNA.
There are plenty of job listings in search of a CNA–you just have to choose the one that fits your schedule and location! Finding the perfect job as a CNA requires dedication but can ultimately lead to an exciting career path in healthcare!
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the average Certified Nursing Assistant salary in the United States is $34,445 as of November 2022, but the range typically falls between $31,393 and $38,034.
Salary ranges can vary significantly based on a variety of crucial aspects. Each state has its own salary range. You can view the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics website to find the average pay in your state. Working as a CNA provides a stable and recession-proof position that is emotionally and mentally rewarding.
Once you have acquired your certification after passing the exam, you must check your current licensure status in your state’s official nurse aide registry. Your name and license must be active on your state’s official registry to start working. All 50 states and the District of Columbia have nurse aide registries with different websites and contact information.
Showing on the nurse's aide registry after passing your exams can take anywhere from one to two weeks. The duration depends on the process of the state you are applying in and what their process is. Some states claim to have license updates in 48 hours or less, and others longer.
Healthcare institutions frequently post job listings for properly qualified nursing assistants. However, some organizations might only want to recruit CNAs who have already completed their examinations. You can start applying to various CNA job advertisements while you're still in class.
Networking is vital when finding employment – don’t be afraid to reach out directly to contacts in the industry or attend job hiring events. The best way to find open positions is by looking online on websites like Indeed or Monster. You should also look into local hospitals or nursing homes for any available openings and inquire about opportunities at your school’s career center.
Improve your chances of landing a job by building a solid resume with your educational background, relevant skill set, and working experience. You can check out some CNA resume guides online to help you get started in establishing your Certified Nursing Assistant resume.
We’re excited about the career growth waiting for you out there. As a Certified Nursing Assistant, searching for work opportunities in the industry won’t be a challenge. Use the considerable demand for CNAs today to your advantage, and find the working environment that best suits your lifestyle and schedule.
Venice Nuyda is a student-support representative at Dreambound. She is responsible for helping students through their training journey in the allied health space. She is passionate about helping others and writing informative articles to aid candidates in advancing their vocational careers.