As a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), you're a critical component of many healthcare systems. LVNs — known as LPNs in states other than California and Texas — are essential for the proper implementation of direct care. LVN jobs are expected to be in continued demand over the next decade thanks to the prevalence of certain chronic conditions, as well as the inevitable aging of the baby boomer population.
Whether you're interested in full-time, part-time, contract, or per diem vocational nurse jobs, you’ll find openings in a variety of facility types. You can also explore travel LVN jobs. Start your search on Credenza today.
Education and Skills for Licensed Vocational Nurse Jobs
To become an LVN, you must complete a certified practical or vocational nursing certificate program and then pass the NCLEX-PN national exam. Doing so legally permits you to hold LVN nurse jobs.
You'll probably need to obtain basic life support (BLS) certification for most positions. To advance your clinical training, consider pursuing additional certifications that pertain to your area of nursing, such as:
If you’re curious about the types of hard and soft skills that employers like to see in candidates, review our LVN job description sample for more information.
LVN Resume and Cover Letter
A strong resume and cover letter can help set you apart from other candidates pursuing vocational nurse jobs. The key is to look at the job ad and see what requirements are featured, then match up your skills accordingly. For example, if a job ad says the ideal candidate has “experience supervising nursing assistants and aides” as one of the top qualifications, your LVN resume should include that phrase — and if you can include the actual number of people you supervised, that would be a bonus.
Your cover letter should feature a line or two about your experience overseeing aides and assistants and how it taught you the importance of clear, concise communication. Our cover letter sample can show you what else you might want to include when applying to jobs for LVNs.
Interviewing for LVN Positions
No matter how comfortable and confident you are going into a job interview, it never hurts to practice in advance. Review examples of common LVN interview questions and prepare smart answers.
Remember that interviews give you a chance to ask your potential employer some questions, not just vice versa. Inquire about what the organization’s culture is like, if they have any training for new employees, how you’ll be evaluated, and any other questions that might help give you a better understanding of the LVN job.
Salary for Licensed Vocational Nurse Jobs
LVN jobs pay an average salary of $67,050 per year, or $32.24 per hour. Your salary can be affected by your years of experience, level of education, the type of facility that employs you, and your location. These states pay some of the highest salaries to LVNs/LPNs:
LVN Specialty Areas
If you're trained in a nursing specialty, you can search for jobs in that field. Check out the latest opportunities in these areas:
There's an LVN Job Waiting for You
Ready to get to work? Find out how Credenza can match you with LVN jobs in your area. Get started today.
