February 16, 2024

Your Guide to Navigating Part-Time Nursing Jobs

A nurse in scrubs pours coffee as she stands in the kitchen of her home.

Can nurses work part-time?

Yes, nurses can work part-time, and many do! Part-time nursing has become an increasingly popular and viable option for healthcare professionals seeking flexibility in their work schedules. Many nurses opt for part-time roles to strike a balance between their professional commitments and personal lives. 

This shift towards accommodating various work arrangements is not only reflective of changing workforce dynamics but also acknowledges the diverse needs of healthcare professionals.

How many hours do part-time nurses work?

The short answer is: it depends. The number of hours part-time nurses work can vary, and it often depends on individual preferences and employer policies. While there isn't a standardized definition, part-time nursing roles typically involve working fewer hours than their full-time counterparts. 

Part-time schedules may range from a few shifts per week to a set number of hours per day. Some part-time nurses choose to work on a per diem basis, allowing them to have even greater flexibility. The variability in hours provides nurses with the opportunity to tailor their schedules based on personal needs, making part-time nursing an attractive option for those seeking work-life balance.

How many days do part-time nurses work?

The number of days part-time nurses work can vary based on individual preferences and employer agreements. Typically, part-time nurses may work anywhere from two to four days a week, allowing for a more balanced approach to their professional and personal lives. In contrast, full-time nurses commonly adhere to a standard five-day workweek.

How to find part-time nursing jobs near you

Finding part-time nursing jobs near you is now more accessible than ever, thanks to various online platforms and resources dedicated to healthcare job listings. 

  • Search Job Sites: Websites like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn often feature a plethora of part-time nursing opportunities. 
  • Check Local Healthcare Facility Sites: Exploring the career sections of major healthcare institutions in your area, such as hospitals and clinics, can unveil part-time positions. 
  • Grow Your Network: Networking within the healthcare community and attending job fairs will help share your interest in part-time work and potentially open up opportunities.
  • Explore Staffing Agencies: Connecting with staffing agencies specializing in healthcare placements is also an effective way to discover part-time nursing opportunities that align with your preferences and skill set.
  • Join CareRev: If your goal is to set your own schedule, this may be the option for you. CareRev connects healthcare facilities and nurses, allowing nurses to choose which shifts fit their schedule and lifestyle. If you’re looking for part-time nursing shifts that you can pick up when you want, check out shifts near you to get started. 

Things to consider before taking a part-time nursing job

Transitioning from full-time to part-time work can be a major life change. Nurses should consider a number of factors before deciding what is right for them. These are some of the factors you may want to consider before taking your first part-time nursing job:

  • Work-Life Balance: Assess whether part-time nursing aligns with your desired work-life balance and provides the flexibility you need.
  • Emotional Well-being: Consider whether part-time nursing provides the balance needed to reduce stress and enhance overall job satisfaction.
  • Personal Commitments: Consider any personal commitments, such as caregiving responsibilities, continuing education, or pursuing additional certifications, and assess how part-time nursing accommodates these commitments.
  • Career Goals: Consider how part-time nursing fits into your long-term career goals and aspirations.
  • Professional Development: Evaluate how part-time nursing aligns with your goals for professional development. Consider whether the reduced hours allow time for continuing education, training, or pursuing additional certifications.
  • Healthcare Benefits: Investigate how a shift to part-time nursing might impact your healthcare benefits, including insurance coverage, retirement plans, and other perks provided by your employer.
  • Shift Preferences: Explore your preferences regarding work shifts. Part-time nurses often have more flexibility in choosing shifts, allowing for customization based on personal preferences and lifestyle.
  • Transition Plan: Develop a transition plan for adjusting to part-time nursing. Consider how you will manage the change, communicate with colleagues, and ensure a smooth transition in your professional responsibilities.
  • Support Systems: Assess the support systems available to you, both professionally and personally, as you transition to part-time nursing. Ensure you have the necessary support to navigate potential challenges.
  • Changes in Pay: Part-time nurses are often paid by the hour, as opposed to an annual salary. Learn more about average part-time nurse pay in our blog.

In conclusion, the world of nursing careers has evolved to embrace diverse work arrangements, including part-time roles. Nurses seeking flexibility in their schedules can find fulfilling opportunities that cater to their individual needs. 

Whether you're exploring part-time nursing for better work-life balance or embarking on a phased retirement, the abundance of available resources makes it easier than ever to navigate and find part-time nursing jobs near you.

Ready for more freedom and flexibility in your nursing career?

Find shifts with CareRev