Nursing Graduate

New Graduate Nurse (GN) Program – Deaconess Illinois Hospitals
Start your nursing career with confidence, support, and a team that invests in YOU.

Our Graduate Nurse Program is designed to help new nursing graduates seamlessly transition into their professional RN role. As a Graduate Nurse (GN), you’ll gain hands‑on experience before receiving your RN license, working under the direct supervision of a dedicated RN preceptor. This structured, supportive environment gives you the opportunity to build confidence, strengthen your clinical skills, and care for complex patients within a highly collaborative team.

Once you obtain your full Illinois RN license (required within 60 days), you will step directly into a full‑time RN role within the Deaconess Illinois Hospital system.

• One‑on‑one guidance and mentorship from an experienced RN preceptor
• A unit‑based learning environment focused on growth and skill development
• Exposure to complex patient care while building a strong clinical foundation
• A smooth transition into a full‑time RN position after licensure

Education & Experience

• Graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing
• Applied for and/or awaiting results of the first NCLEX exam

NCLEX Requirements

• If unsuccessful on the first attempt, you may remain in orientation but must retake within 60 days
• If unsuccessful on the second attempt, you will be removed from the GN role
• GN status may not exceed four months

Licensure & Certifications

• Eligible for Illinois RN licensure
• Current AHA Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required at hire

• Starting at $28/hour as a Graduate Nurse
• Automatically transitions to RN pay scale upon passing NCLEX & license posting

• Eligible for evening, night, and weekend shift incentives
• Details provided during the interview

• Opportunity for a performance‑based bonus
• Full criteria and metrics shared during interview or upon hire

At Deaconess, we’re committed to helping you grow—professionally and personally.

• Flexible scheduling:
  Full‑time, part‑time, supplemental | Day, Evening, Night shifts
• Tuition reimbursement
• Student Loan Repayment Program
• Payactiv earned‑wage access (get paid as soon as tomorrow!)
• Opportunities for career advancement
• Robust health and retirement plans

Explore Our Full Benefits Guide:

Required

Associates

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.