If you’re a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) looking for a change, travel certified nursing assistant jobs might be perfect for you. These positions let you gain new skills and see different places.

Healthcare facilities rely on traveling CNAs for many reasons, including low-staffed units, strikes, maternity leaves, and increased patient ratios. That means plenty of job opportunities and options for you! With high demand across the country, now is the perfect time to pack your suitcase and consider making the switch to travel CNA jobs.

This guide will explain what travel certified nursing assistant jobs are, their benefits, and how to succeed in this exciting field. Get ready to learn about the opportunities and adventures that travel certified nursing assistant jobs can offer!

Travel Certified Nursing Assistant- Job Role and Benefits

A travel certified nursing assistant (CNA) job involves taking short-term assignments, usually lasting 8 to 26 weeks, at various healthcare facilities across the country. Instead of being directly hired by one facility, travel CNAs work through staffing agencies that place them where needed.

Travel CNA positions offer a chance to gain experience in different settings while exploring new places. Facilities use travel CNAs to temporarily meet higher patient demand.

Travel nurses, who work 13-week contracts nationwide, receive higher pay and benefits than permanent staff. This model has expanded to CNAs and therapists.

For CNAs, travel jobs provide opportunities to enhance skills and visit new locations. They enjoy benefits like housing stipends and mileage reimbursement, often better than permanent positions. Facilities hire travel CNAs through agencies to quickly increase staff for seasonal demands, employee leaves, or expansion projects.

How Can You Become a Travel Certified Nursing Assistant?

To qualify for travel certified nursing assistant (CNA) jobs, you must:

• Hold an active CNA license in good standing.
• Have at least 1 year of recent experience as a CNA.
• Be willing to take assignments across the U.S., often in rural areas.
• Pass a background check and meet health requirements.
•  Provide references from recent healthcare employers.
• Have a flexible and adventurous spirit, comfortable working with new people and environments.

Skills like communication, teamwork, organization, and efficiency are highly valued. Facilities want travel CNAs who can quickly adapt to new processes and work well with internal staff. Be prepared to submit all required licenses and certifications. Holding multiple state CNA licenses can increase your marketability for travel roles.

Why Should You Opt For Travel CNA Jobs?

There are multiple reasons why working as a travel CNA would enhance your profile and help you navigate your career as a CNA.

1. Job Stability 

As a travel CNA, job stability is something you won’t need to worry about. With a projected 17% growth over the next 10 years, there’s a rising demand for CNAs. This means there will always be a position for you, even if you need to relocate.

2. Flexibility

Flexibility is crucial for many people. As a CNA, you can choose from three shifts, allowing you to balance work with your personal life. This flexibility is important for maintaining good mental health.

3. Emotionally Rewarding

Being a CNA is emotionally rewarding. You get to make a real difference in people’s lives with the care you provide. The relationships you build with patients and their families will have a lasting impact on you.

4. Affordability 

Working as a travel certified nursing assistant is affordable compared to other programs. Many companies offer tuition assistance, helping you advance your education and build your skills without a heavy financial burden.

5. Enriching Work Experience 

This career provides valuable training and hands-on experience, making you a more well-rounded nurse. It’s a great starting point for a career in healthcare, helping you gain the experience you need to grow. While traveling, you will also learn about healthcare and medicines in different terrains and climate conditions.

6. Opportunity to Specialize

In travel certified nursing assistant jobs, you can explore different specializations and certifications, such as geriatrics, psychiatry, home care, pediatrics, and cardiology. This allows you to find what you’re passionate about and narrow down your focus.

7. Growing Job Market

The CNA job market is booming, with a projected growth of 18% in 2024. This translates to around 300,000 new CNA positions. Now is the perfect time to get certified and start your career.

8. Dynamism 

In a travel CNA role, no two days are the same. Patient needs change daily, keeping your job interesting and dynamic. You can always look forward to making someone’s day better.

9. Opportunity to Travel

Travel certified nursing assistant jobs offer the chance to travel. You can take contract positions around the country, allowing you to practice in different settings and explore new places, creating a perfect work-life balance.

10. Continued Education

Working as a CNA gives you the chance to learn from RNs and other medical professionals. This experience can inspire you to pursue further education and obtain degrees like LPN, RN, or BSN, often with support from your employer. 

Sailing the Travel CNA Boat

Choosing a travel CNA job is a fantastic way to gain diverse experience, explore new places, and enjoy competitive benefits. If you’re flexible, adventurous, and ready for a rewarding career, this path could be perfect for you.

Check out Wanderly, where you can find numerous travel CNA jobs tailored to your preferences. Explore the options and select the best fit for your next adventure!