Intro
Unlock lucrative career opportunities as a Pediatric Registered Nurse (PRN). Discover 7 high-paying PRN jobs, including NICU, PICU, and pediatric oncology nursing positions. Learn about the roles, responsibilities, and salary ranges for these in-demand careers, and take the first step towards a rewarding and financially stable future in pediatric nursing.
Pediatric registered nurses (RNs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing care and support to infants, children, and adolescents. With a strong demand for skilled pediatric nurses, there are numerous high-paying job opportunities available in this field. Here, we will explore seven high-paying pediatric registered nurse jobs that offer competitive salaries and benefits.

1. Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Nurse
Pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) nurses work in specialized units that provide critical care to children who are seriously ill or injured. PICU nurses require advanced training and skills to care for patients who are ventilator-dependent, require dialysis, or have other complex medical needs.
- Median salary: $110,000 - $140,000 per year
- Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing, PICU certification, and 2-3 years of experience
Key Responsibilities:
- Assess and manage patients' conditions, including vital signs, lab results, and medical histories
- Develop and implement individualized care plans
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care
- Provide education and support to patients' families
2. Pediatric Operating Room (OR) Nurse
Pediatric operating room (OR) nurses work in surgical settings, providing care to children undergoing surgical procedures. OR nurses require strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure.
- Median salary: $100,000 - $130,000 per year
- Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing, OR certification, and 2-3 years of experience
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare patients for surgery, including administering medications and conducting pre-operative assessments
- Assist surgeons and anesthesiologists during procedures
- Monitor patients' conditions during recovery and provide post-operative care
- Maintain a safe and sterile environment

3. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Nurse
Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses care for newborns who are premature, critically ill, or require specialized care. NICU nurses require advanced training and skills to care for fragile patients.
- Median salary: $105,000 - $135,000 per year
- Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing, NICU certification, and 2-3 years of experience
Key Responsibilities:
- Assess and manage patients' conditions, including vital signs, lab results, and medical histories
- Develop and implement individualized care plans
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care
- Provide education and support to patients' families
4. Pediatric Travel Nurse
Pediatric travel nurses work temporary assignments in various healthcare settings, providing care to children and adolescents. Travel nurses require flexibility, adaptability, and strong communication skills.
- Median salary: $90,000 - $120,000 per year
- Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing, pediatric certification, and 2-3 years of experience
Key Responsibilities:
- Assess and manage patients' conditions, including vital signs, lab results, and medical histories
- Develop and implement individualized care plans
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care
- Provide education and support to patients' families

5. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) provide primary and specialty care to children and adolescents. PNPs require advanced education and training, as well as certification in pediatrics.
- Median salary: $120,000 - $150,000 per year
- Requirements: Master's degree in nursing, PNP certification, and 2-3 years of experience
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct physical exams and diagnose patients' conditions
- Develop and implement treatment plans
- Prescribe medications and order diagnostic tests
- Provide education and support to patients' families
6. Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
Pediatric clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) work in specialized roles, providing expert care and consultation to patients, families, and healthcare teams. CNSs require advanced education and training, as well as certification in pediatrics.
- Median salary: $110,000 - $140,000 per year
- Requirements: Master's degree in nursing, CNS certification, and 2-3 years of experience
Key Responsibilities:
- Assess and manage patients' conditions, including vital signs, lab results, and medical histories
- Develop and implement individualized care plans
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care
- Provide education and support to patients' families

7. Pediatric Nurse Educator
Pediatric nurse educators teach and mentor nursing students, as well as provide continuing education to healthcare professionals. Nurse educators require advanced education and training, as well as certification in pediatrics.
- Median salary: $90,000 - $120,000 per year
- Requirements: Master's degree in nursing, pediatric certification, and 2-3 years of experience
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement curricula for nursing programs
- Teach and mentor nursing students
- Provide continuing education to healthcare professionals
- Conduct research and publish scholarly articles
In conclusion, pediatric registered nurses have numerous high-paying job opportunities available, ranging from critical care to education and research. By pursuing advanced education and training, as well as certification in pediatrics, nurses can increase their earning potential and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adolescents.
Inviting readers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments section below. What are some other high-paying pediatric nurse jobs that you know of? Share your insights and help others explore the many opportunities available in this rewarding field!
What is the highest-paying pediatric nurse job?
+The highest-paying pediatric nurse job is often the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Nurse, with median salaries ranging from $110,000 to $140,000 per year.
What are the requirements for becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)?
+To become a PNP, one typically requires a Master's degree in nursing, PNP certification, and 2-3 years of experience.
What is the role of a Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)?
+A Pediatric CNS works in specialized roles, providing expert care and consultation to patients, families, and healthcare teams.