Find a Job You Really Want In
Nursing school is a demanding journey, and balancing a job alongside your studies can be challenging yet essential. Whether you seek financial support or valuable experience, certain roles are particularly well-suited for nursing students in 2026.
Key Takeaways:
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Nursing students can qualify for roles like Home Health Aide, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Hospital Clerical Worker, and more.
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When seeking employment, consider your nursing program’s schedule to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
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Look for jobs that provide experience relevant to your nursing education, especially in areas you wish to develop further.
The 10 Best Jobs for Nursing Students
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Average Annual Salary: $23,000
Transporters play a crucial role in hospitals by moving patients between rooms, departments, or to their vehicles upon discharge. They are trained to handle beds, stretchers, and wheelchairs, and assist patients as needed. This role provides valuable insights into hospital operations, beneficial for future nursing careers.
Requirements: No degree or certification is typically needed to become a transporter, making it an accessible position for nursing students while they enhance their interpersonal skills.
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Average Annual Salary: $23,000
Dietary aides support the nutritional needs of patients by assisting dieticians in preparing and delivering meals. This role enhances understanding of dietary requirements while allowing nursing students to practice patient interactions.
Requirements: Typically, no degree or certification is required, making this role widely available across healthcare facilities.
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Average Annual Salary: $29,000
Orderlies maintain cleanliness and assist with patient transport within healthcare facilities. This role provides a valuable perspective on hospital operations, essential for future nursing interactions with orderlies.
Requirements: No additional certifications are usually required, with many part-time opportunities available for nursing students.
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Average Annual Salary: $24,000
Home health aides provide essential care to patients in their homes, assisting with both medical needs and daily activities. This role allows nursing students to gain hands-on experience in patient care.
Requirements: A certification may be needed, but nursing students can often obtain this quickly due to their existing knowledge and experience.
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Occupational Therapy Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $47,000
Occupational therapy assistants help patients recover and improve their ability to perform daily tasks. This role provides nursing students with experience in therapeutic settings and teamwork with healthcare professionals.
Requirements: While certification is not always required, CPR certification is typically necessary, aligning well with nursing students’ qualifications.
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Average Annual Salary: $34,000
Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood, providing nursing students with crucial practice in a skill they’ll need as registered nurses. This role also involves patient care and comfort during procedures.
Requirements: Certification programs are often necessary, but many facilities offer training opportunities for nursing students to gain practical experience.
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Average Annual Salary: $22,000
Personal care assistants help individuals with daily tasks, assisting those who may have cognitive impairments or disabilities. This role is vital for developing empathic communication skills essential for nursing.
Requirements: Generally, no specialized certification is required beyond basic CPR and first aid, which nursing students usually possess.
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Undergraduate Tutor
Average Annual Salary: N/A
Tutoring can be a flexible job option for nursing students, especially if they excel in certain subjects. This role enhances knowledge retention and develops teaching abilities, which are crucial in nursing.
Requirements: Many organizations seek successful students for tutoring roles, providing an opportunity for nursing students to share their expertise.
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Hospital Clerical Worker
Average Annual Salary: N/A
Clerical workers manage administrative tasks in hospitals, giving nursing students insight into the healthcare system’s operational side. This experience aids in understanding the interplay between administrative and nursing roles.
Requirements: Typically, no formal certification is needed, but prior experience in clinical settings can be beneficial.
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Average Annual Salary: $28,000
CNAs support nurses with various patient care tasks, offering hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings and a clearer understanding of nursing responsibilities.
Requirements: CNA candidates must complete a training program, typically lasting four to twelve weeks, providing practical nursing experience before graduation.
What to Consider When Looking for a Job as a Nursing Student
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Schedule
Your availability varies significantly based on your nursing program structure—whether it’s a traditional four-year program with summers off or a year-round part-time certification. Clearly define your working hours to optimize your job search.
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Work-Life Balance
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. Seek a job that accommodates your study schedule and allows for personal time, while ensuring it does not overly tax your mental and emotional resources.
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Experience
While any job can meet financial needs, aim for positions that provide relevant nursing experience. Even roles in administrative settings can offer valuable insights into healthcare operations. Consult instructors for recommendations on positions that align with your career goals.
In summary, the job landscape for nursing students has evolved, offering a variety of roles that not only support your financial needs but also enrich your educational experience. As you navigate your nursing career path, consider the job opportunities that align with your schedule, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and provide relevant experience to enhance your nursing skills.
Author
Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.
