Intro
Explore in-demand nurse positions near you! Discover five rewarding nursing roles, including travel nursing, pediatric nursing, and nurse education, that offer flexibility and career growth. Learn about job requirements, salary ranges, and growth opportunities in this informative guide to kickstart your nursing career.
Nursing is a highly respected and rewarding profession that offers a wide range of career opportunities. With the increasing demand for healthcare services, the job market for nurses is booming, and there are numerous positions available near you to consider. Whether you're a recent nursing graduate or an experienced professional looking to transition into a new role, there are many exciting options to explore.
The nursing profession is not only fulfilling, but it also offers excellent job security, competitive salaries, and opportunities for advancement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 12% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population, an increased focus on preventive care, and the need for healthcare services in a variety of settings.
If you're considering a career in nursing or looking to transition into a new role, here are five nurse positions near you to consider:
1. Registered Nurse (RN)

Registered nurses are in high demand, and this role is an excellent option for those who enjoy working directly with patients. As an RN, you'll be responsible for assessing patient needs, developing care plans, and administering medications and treatments. You'll work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive high-quality care.
To become an RN, you'll need to earn an Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree in nursing and obtain a state license. RNs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and community health organizations.
Salary Range:
- Median salary: $76,840 per year (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Starting salary: around $60,000 per year
- Experienced salary: up to $100,000 per year
Growth Opportunities:
- Specialize in a particular area, such as pediatrics or oncology
- Move into leadership roles, such as nurse manager or director of nursing
- Pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree in nursing
2. Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who provide primary and specialty care to patients. As an NP, you'll be responsible for conducting physical exams, diagnosing illnesses, and developing treatment plans. You'll work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care.
To become an NP, you'll need to earn a Master's degree in nursing and obtain a state license. NPs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations.
Salary Range:
- Median salary: $111,840 per year (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Starting salary: around $90,000 per year
- Experienced salary: up to $140,000 per year
Growth Opportunities:
- Specialize in a particular area, such as pediatrics or gerontology
- Move into leadership roles, such as director of advanced practice
- Pursue a Doctoral degree in nursing
3. Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

Certified nurse midwives are APRNs who provide prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care to women. As a CNM, you'll be responsible for conducting physical exams, developing birth plans, and assisting with deliveries. You'll work closely with obstetricians and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive high-quality care.
To become a CNM, you'll need to earn a Master's degree in nursing and obtain a state license. CNMs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and birth centers.
Salary Range:
- Median salary: $115,780 per year (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Starting salary: around $90,000 per year
- Experienced salary: up to $140,000 per year
Growth Opportunities:
- Specialize in a particular area, such as maternal-fetal medicine
- Move into leadership roles, such as director of midwifery
- Pursue a Doctoral degree in nursing
4. Nurse Educator

Nurse educators are RNs who teach nursing students in academic settings. As a nurse educator, you'll be responsible for developing curriculum, teaching classes, and mentoring students. You'll work closely with other faculty members to ensure that students receive high-quality education.
To become a nurse educator, you'll need to earn a Master's degree in nursing and obtain a state license. Nurse educators can work in a variety of settings, including universities, colleges, and vocational schools.
Salary Range:
- Median salary: $76,840 per year (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Starting salary: around $60,000 per year
- Experienced salary: up to $100,000 per year
Growth Opportunities:
- Specialize in a particular area, such as pediatrics or gerontology
- Move into leadership roles, such as department chair or dean
- Pursue a Doctoral degree in nursing
5. Nurse Informatics Specialist

Nurse informatics specialists are RNs who design and implement healthcare technology systems. As a nurse informatics specialist, you'll be responsible for analyzing data, developing software, and training staff on new systems. You'll work closely with IT professionals and other healthcare stakeholders to ensure that technology systems meet the needs of patients and healthcare providers.
To become a nurse informatics specialist, you'll need to earn a Bachelor's degree in nursing and obtain a state license. You may also need to obtain a certification in healthcare informatics.
Salary Range:
- Median salary: $83,610 per year (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Starting salary: around $70,000 per year
- Experienced salary: up to $110,000 per year
Growth Opportunities:
- Specialize in a particular area, such as electronic health records
- Move into leadership roles, such as director of informatics
- Pursue a Master's degree in healthcare informatics
If you're considering a career in nursing, these five positions offer excellent opportunities for growth and development. Whether you're interested in working directly with patients or behind the scenes, there's a nursing role that's right for you.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information about nurse positions near you. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out. Share this article with your friends and colleagues who may be interested in pursuing a career in nursing.
What is the average salary for a registered nurse?
+The average salary for a registered nurse is around $76,840 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What is the job outlook for nurse practitioners?
+The job outlook for nurse practitioners is excellent, with employment projected to grow 28% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
What is the typical work environment for a nurse informatics specialist?
+Nurse informatics specialists typically work in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations, and may also work remotely or as consultants.