Travel Emergency Department Charge Nurse

American Traveler is seeking a travel nurse RN ED - Emergency Department for a travel nursing job in Bakersfield, California.

• Specialty:
  ED - Emergency Department
• Discipline:
  RN
• Start Date:
  
  03/16/2026
• Duration:
  13 weeks
• 36 hours per week
• Shift:
  12 hours, nights
• Employment Type:
  
  Travel

Job Description

American Traveler is hiring an experienced Emergency Department RN to serve as Nurse Shift Manager for night shifts in a busy acute care setting in California, requiring a CA RN license and strong leadership skills.

• Work in a 21-bed Emergency Department within an acute care hospital
• Position functions as Nurse Shift Manager with charge and direct care responsibilities
• Patient population includes typical ER cases, Med Surg Tele holds, and stroke cases
• Nurse-to-patient ratios of 1:4 for general ER patients and 1:2 for ICU patients
• Uses Cerner as the EMR and Phillips telemetry equipment
• 12-hour night shifts with self-scheduling, not finalized until management review
• Required to work 4 weekend shifts per 4-week schedule; weekends are Friday/Saturday for nights
• Floating may occur between two ERs located 6.5 miles apart, with notice when possible
• No IV team support; RT and pharmacy available 24/7
• Primary job requirement—cannot accommodate external work schedules
• Responsibilities include patient care, triaging ambulance patients, medication administration, and departmental management
• Expected to support the department as Charge RN or in any other capacity as needed
• Department serves as a Primary Stroke Center and participates in rapid response with MET Team
• Must be highly teamwork-oriented, adaptable, and able to handle fast-paced environment
• Scrub color is navy blue; jackets and undershirts must be navy, white, or black
• Holiday coverage requires work on one major and one minor holiday per contract
• No IV team; nurses handle procedures such as IV starts and vent management
• Must have no direct employment (full time, part time, or PRN) with this health system in the past year

• Active CA RN license required at time of consideration
• Minimum 3 years of Emergency Department RN experience
• Current BLS, ACLS, PALS, and NIHSS certifications required
• Strong Charge RN or management experience in an acute care ER required
• Experience with Cerner EMR preferred
• Ability to pass required clinical skills tests prior to orientation
• Professional references, including one from a supervisor within the last 12 months and another from the past 3 years, required for consideration
• Copy of driver's license required

• High Pay and Bonuses
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance with Day 1 Options
• 401(k) Plan
• Weekly Payroll Deposit
• Free Online CEUs
• Generous Housing Allowance
• Travel and Licensure Reimbursements
• Non-taxed Per Diem and Subsidy
• Traveler Rewards and Discounts

American Traveler Job  #P-672847. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title:
Travel RN - Emergency Dept

With over 25 years of experience, American Traveler has established a reputation for outstanding customer service. Our team ensures a smooth, worry-free experience for those starting on or expanding their travel nursing and allied careers.

With thousands of travel nursing and allied jobs nationwide, our attentive and approachable recruiters find positions that align perfectly with your career aspirations and personal requirements.

American Traveler offers exceptional benefits, including premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance beginning day one of your assignment, generous 401(k) match, substantial housing stipends, and more. Additionally, with 24/7 support and access to our in-house clinicians, you are assured confidence and comfort throughout your assignment.

With our team behind you, you can relax and enjoy a rewarding travel career.