ICU and Critical Care Nurses

The specialized skills required of a critical care nurse make these experienced RNs an integral part of every hospital system. Critical care nurses have the unique ability to work in a variety of settings including the intensive care unit, progressive care unit and more specialized sectors such as CVICU nursing.

With so many career paths and specialties to choose from, ICU nursing jobs are plentiful in a variety of cities and states all across the nation. If you work as a critical care nurse, you can earn top pay and work at some of the most prestigious facilities across the nation with an ICU nursing job.

Salary Information for ICU and Critical Care Nurses

Since hospitals around the country are in urgent need of ICU nurses, experienced RNs can command top pay for their skills. Salaries for ICU nurses and critical care nurses vary depending on experience, location and facility, but the median salary continues to grow year over year. The average salary for ICU Nurses as of June 2008 was $60,574, and traveling ICU nurses can expect to make at least as much or more per year plus benefits due to the high need for their expertise and skills at short-staffed facilities throughout the nation.

Below are some of the most recent ICU nursing job assignments for critical care nurses from NurseZone.com's top travel staffing partners. Earn great pay with an ICU nurse job while also receiving company-paid housing, day-one benefits and much more-all while enjoying the experience of a lifetime!

If you are an experienced ICU nurse looking to enhance your career and earn great pay-check out NurseZone's robust database of ICU nurse jobs from top partners. View our featured jobs or try our enhanced ICU nurse jobs search today.

Job Outlook for ICU and Critical Care Nurses

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, if you're considering becoming an ICU nurse the job outlook for all RNs remains strong, with 587,000 new registered nurse jobs expected to be created by 2016.

Read More about ICU nurses in the ICU Specialty Spotlight

Sources: Salary.com and U.S. Department of Labor

  1. 1. Registered Nurse - ICU    Rate: $43*
    California

    Located in central California, just eight miles from the Pacific Ocean, Salinas is home to a large agricultural industry where you can find some of the best locally grown produce in the country. The thrilling California Rodeo is held here every year and is considered to be one of the top rodeos in the nation. Also, be sure to check out one of the many museums, restaurants or cute boutiques located throughout the area.
    *Once you apply, ask your recruiter for details.
    New! 15% more on each paycheck with maximum take home pay*
    Daily rate allowed for per diem meals and incidentals*

    Apply Now California
  2. 2. Registered Nurse - ICU     Rate: $36*
    Georgia

    Georgia’s historic awareness presents an outstanding opportunity to glimpse the culture of the Old South: You can choose to explore a wide assortment of vintage homes and plantations, forts and battlefields, reenactments and museums. But the state is not trapped in the past—Atlanta is the epitome of modern city life! No matter what part of Georgia you’re visiting, you’ll find nature preserves, natural wonders and recreation areas within easy reach.
    *Once you apply, ask your recruiter for details.
    New! 15% more on each paycheck with maximum take home pay*
    Daily rate allowed for per diem meals and incidentals*

    Apply Now Georgia
  3. 3. Registered Nurse - ICU    Rate: $35*
    California

    Situated in California’s San Joaquin Valley—one of the greatest agricultural areas in the nation— Modesto offers a small-town ambiance and easy access to the ocean, mountains and some of the nation’s most renowned national parks. Day trip options from Modesto include San Francisco, Sacramento, and Yosemite National Park among many others. With its mild climate, outdoor activities can be enjoyed year round.
    *Once you apply, ask your recruiter for details.
    New! 15% more on each paycheck with maximum take home pay*
    Daily rate allowed for per diem meals and incidentals*

    Apply Now California
  4. 4. Registered Nurse - ICU     Rate: $35*    
    New Jersey

    Miles of sandy Atlantic coastline, a variety of theaters and concert halls, thrilling professional and minor league sporting events, casinos and nature trails mingle together in the state of New Jersey. Since much of the state is surrounded by water, the ocean may play a big part in your visit whether you enjoy sunbathing, swimming or boating. But not to worry, there are plenty of other recreational or indoor activities to pursue if the sun and sea is not your style. There is something for everyone in this classic East coast destination.
    *Once you apply, ask your recruiter for details.
    New! 15% more on each paycheck with maximum take home pay*
    Daily rate allowed for per diem meals and incidentals*

    Apply Now New Jersey
  5. 5. Registered Nurse - ICU     Rate: $34*
    Rhode Island

    The smallest state in the United States, Rhode Island boasts more than 400 miles of rugged shoreline, wide sandy beaches, leafy state parks and elegant cities. From the beautiful seaport city of Newport to the historical sites and attractions of Providence, Rhode Island is jam-packed with entertainment options and outdoor pursuits.
    *Once you apply, ask your recruiter for details.
    New! 15% more on each paycheck with maximum take home pay*
    Daily rate allowed for per diem meals and incidentals*

    Apply Now Rhode Island
  6. 6. Registered Nurse - ICU     Rate: $35*
    Washington

    Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and sparkling bays, Seattle is one of the West’s most alluring cities. Relax at a sidewalk café and enjoy a latté, stroll along a waterfront park at sunset, go kayaking on Lake Union or shop for fresh fare at festive Pike Place Market. Here’s your chance to work at Seattle’s finest hospitals and to enjoy the many adventures that abound in this sparkling Northwest gem.
    *Once you apply, ask your recruiter for details.
    New! 15% more on each paycheck with maximum take home pay*
    Daily rate allowed for per diem meals and incidentals*

    Apply Now Washington
  7. 7. Registered Nurse - ICU     Rate: $34*
    California

    The “City by the Bay” is a favorite destination for travelers who thrive on fun, excitement and endless variety. Away from work, travelers have the chance to ferry across the bay to Alcatraz, explore Chinatown, stroll along the lively Embarcadero, drive through the wine country and, of course, feast on San Francisco’s famous cracked crab and sourdough bread.
    *Once you apply, ask your recruiter for details.
    New! 15% more on each paycheck with maximum take home pay*
    Daily rate allowed for per diem meals and incidentals*

    Apply Now California
  8. 8. Registered Nurse - ICU     Rate: $31*
    Florida

    Positioned on the southern tip of sunny Florida, this beach town is one of the Sunshine State’s crown jewels. You’ll find unique Spanish and Mediterranean architecture throughout the city as well as swanky boutiques and chic cafés. From the revitalized shopping area of Minzer Park to the sparkling blue waters that border the city, Boca Raton is a place that many people would long to call home.
    *Once you apply, ask your recruiter for details.
    New! 15% more on each paycheck with maximum take home pay*
    Daily rate allowed for per diem meals and incidentals*

    Apply Now Florida