AMN Healthcare, a trusted leader in staffing for over 40 years, is excited to invite NICU Registered Nurses to explore our exceptional travel job opportunities in beautiful Santa Cruz. Every year, we support more than 10,000 healthcare professionals, providing personalized guidance tailored to your unique career path and preferences. With our extensive network of facilities and commitment to your success, we ensure that you find fulfilling travel assignments in Neonatal Intensive Care Units that match your skills and aspirations. Join us at AMN Healthcare, where your journey as a nursing professional is supported every step of the way, allowing you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of newborns and their families while experiencing the scenic wonders of Santa Cruz.
Here is the top paying Neonatal Intensive Care Unit job currently available in Santa Cruz, California:
AMN Healthcare currently has 1 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit job available in Santa Cruz, with start dates as early as 1/5/26. As of December 4, 2025, the average weekly pay for a NICU Registered Nurse in Santa Cruz was $2,325, with the range in pay between $2,212 and $2,437.
If Santa Cruz isn’t your only option, we also have Neonatal Intensive Care Unit jobs nearby in Campbell (22.1 miles), San Jose (26.3 miles) and Santa Clara (26.6 miles). Or, if you’re looking for cities with the largest variety of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit jobs available currently, you should try Urbana (7 jobs), Los Angeles (4 jobs), Dallas (3 jobs), New York City (2 jobs), and Pasadena (2 jobs).
If you’re interested, just Apply Now and we’ll match you with a recruiter for more personalized service!
If you’re a NICU Registered Nurse curious about Travel job trends in Santa Cruz, CA, AMN Healthcare has successfully filled 1 similar positions in the area, providing insight into the opportunities you could expect. These previously filled roles offered competitive pay, with an average weekly rate of $2,346 and a range from $2,232 to $2,460 per week, showcasing the strong earning potential for professionals in this field.
Positions were located in key zip codes, including 95065. These placements reflect the high demand for skilled NICU Registered Nurses in Santa Cruz’s thriving healthcare landscape. With AMN Healthcare, you can count on access to similar roles tailored to your expertise and career goals. Explore how you can join this network of professionals and take the next step in your career today!
Here’s a look at some of the most recently filled Neonatal Intensive Care Unit positions in Santa Cruz, giving you a glimpse into the competitive pay rates and opportunities available.
As a NICU Registered Nurse in Santa Cruz, California, you can expect to engage in a rewarding and dynamic work environment across a variety of healthcare facilities, including well-established hospitals, specialized pediatric care centers, and community health organizations. In these settings, you will provide critical care to newborns facing health challenges, utilizing advanced neonatal technologies and interventions to stabilize and support their development. Additionally, you will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to create comprehensive care plans, educate families on care processes and infant health, and contribute to ongoing quality improvement initiatives. Santa Cruz’s picturesque coastal backdrop enhances this fulfilling role, allowing you to enjoy a balanced lifestyle while making a significant impact in the lives of vulnerable patients and their families.
As a travel NICU Registered Nurse considering an assignment in Santa Cruz, California, you’ll find a unique blend of professional opportunity and lifestyle allure. Nestled along the stunning Central Coast, Santa Cruz boasts a temperate coastal climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an ideal year-round destination. Explore vibrant neighborhoods like downtown Santa Cruz and the idyllic beach communities of Soquel and Live Oak, where you can enjoy charming local shops, restaurants, and cafes. Beyond work, indulge in the stunning natural beauty of the area with access to pristine beaches, the majestic redwoods of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and the enchanting Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. With a rich arts scene, farmers’ markets, and an active outdoor culture, your time in Santa Cruz will be fulfilling both personally and professionally, making it an excellent choice for travel nursing.
Discover exciting travel opportunities in Neonatal Intensive Care Units right here in Santa Cruz, where you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable newborns. Explore the range of available positions below to find your ideal job and embark on a fulfilling journey with AMN Healthcare today!
As you explore the exciting opportunities for travel Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) jobs in Santa Cruz, you’ll find a wealth of valuable statistics at your fingertips. Our comprehensive data highlights average pay trends over the past three months, helping you to gauge how compensation is evolving in this dynamic market. Additionally, we’ve included insights on average, minimum, and maximum pay for NICU positions over the last year, allowing you to make informed decisions about your career path in this vital field.
Understanding the landscape of healthcare facilities in Santa Cruz is equally important, and the statistics provided outline the count and type of institutions actively seeking skilled professionals like you. By leveraging this data, you can gain a clearer perspective on the job market, identify potential employers, and tailor your job search strategy effectively. Dive into these insights to empower your next career move in the vibrant city of Santa Cruz!
Candidates for a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit travel job in Santa Cruz, California typically need a minimum of two years of experience in a NICU setting, along with relevant certifications such as BLS and NRP. Preference is given to those with additional specialties or certifications and prior travel experience in clinical settings.
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit travel jobs in Santa Cruz, California, are typically offered by hospitals and pediatric care centers that specialize in high-risk infants. These facilities often have dedicated NICU departments staffed by specialized healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for premature and critically ill newborns.
For Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Travel jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, typical contract durations range from 13 weeks. These flexible contract lengths allow you to choose an assignment that best fits your career goals and lifestyle preferences.
A NICU Registered Nurse should inquire about comprehensive health insurance, housing stipends, and relocation assistance to ensure their basic needs are met while working in Santa Cruz. Additionally, they should seek employer support in the form of flexible scheduling, continuing education opportunities, and travel reimbursements to enhance their overall experience and career development.
A travel NICU Registered Nurse might seek a job in Santa Cruz for its picturesque coastal environment and vibrant community, which can provide a refreshing backdrop to their demanding work. Additionally, the opportunity to join a healthcare team that offers specialized care in a renowned area can enhance both their professional experience and personal fulfillment.
Some popular neighborhoods in Santa Cruz for a travel NICU Registered Nurse include the Westside, known for its proximity to the beach and vibrant community, as well as Downtown Santa Cruz, which offers a lively atmosphere with shops and restaurants. The Eastside also provides more residential options and a family-friendly environment. Each area features unique charm and accessibility to healthcare facilities, making them appealing for both work and living.
A travel NICU Registered Nurse should evaluate the facility’s level of care, including its accreditation and the complexity of cases commonly handled. It’s also important to consider the supportive resources available, such as staff ratios and access to continuing education. Additionally, the nurse should assess the location and community environment to ensure a personally satisfactory experience.
At AMN Healthcare, we are dedicated to connecting talented healthcare professionals with rewarding opportunities across the nation. For those interested in exploring careers in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), our recent job placements in Santa Cruz, California, serve as a valuable resource. This curated list highlights the diverse range of NICU positions currently available, showcasing the qualifications, specialties, and unique settings that define these roles. Whether you’re a seasoned NICU nurse or just starting your journey in neonatal care, reviewing these positions can provide insight into the job market and help you identify the opportunities that align with your career aspirations.
One city that mirrors Santa Cruz in many ways for a NICU Registered Nurse is San Luis Obispo, California. Known for its stunning coastal views and vibrant community, San Luis Obispo boasts a similar cost of living, though it is generally lower than Santa Cruz’s. The city features well-regarded healthcare facilities, providing ample job opportunities for NICU nurses, typically offering salaries comparable to those in Santa Cruz. The climate is temperate, with little variation in summer and winter temperatures, making for a pleasant year-round outdoor lifestyle, supported by numerous hiking trails and close proximity to beautiful beaches.
Another city worth considering is Boulder, Colorado, which shares a progressive and health-conscious culture reminiscent of Santa Cruz. With a cost of living that can be slightly higher than California averages, the pay range for NICU nurses is also competitive, particularly given the area’s strong healthcare industry. Boulder’s location at the foothills of the Rockies offers stunning natural scenery and an abundance of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and biking. The city also features a vibrant arts scene and frequent community events, contributing to a dynamic lifestyle that emphasizes both work-life balance and social engagement.
Asheville, North Carolina is another appealing option for NICU nurses seeking an experience similar to Santa Cruz. Known for its eclectic arts community, craft breweries, and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain scenery, Asheville presents a lower cost of living compared to both Santa Cruz and Boulder. The healthcare facilities here are reputable, with salaries for NICU nurses that align with the national averages, making it a financially viable option. Additionally, Asheville’s climate offers four distinct seasons, appealing to those who cherish seasonal changes and various outdoor activities like hiking and exploring lush landscapes.
Another option is Portland, Oregon, recognized for its laid-back vibe and strong focus on healthcare and wellness. While the cost of living is comparable to Santa Cruz, salaries for NICU nurses can be more favorable due to the increased demand for healthcare professionals in this region. The city’s climate is generally mild and wet, fostering a lush environment that encourages outdoor adventures year-round. With a vibrant food scene, a plethora of cultural activities, and various community events, Portland fosters a lifestyle that is both active and socially engaging, akin to what one might find in Santa Cruz.
Lastly, consider Gainesville, Florida, which may be less recognized but offers a unique combination of factors appealing to NICU nurses. The cost of living is considerably lower than in Santa Cruz, which allows for a more relaxed lifestyle despite a burgeoning healthcare job market. Gainesville’s climate is warm and typically humid, conducive to outdoor activities year-round, especially with its proximity to parks and rivers. With a strong emphasis on education and health, the local healthcare facilities provide robust job opportunities, while the city itself offers a friendly atmosphere with various cultural and recreational opportunities that attract those with a lifestyle focus similar to Santa Cruz.
Santa Cruz boasts a rich tapestry of healthcare facilities renowned for their commitment to exceptional neonatal care, making it an ideal destination for NICU nursing professionals seeking travel positions. With a variety of hospitals and specialty clinics dedicated to supporting the needs of vulnerable newborns, these establishments consistently seek skilled neonatal nurses ready to make a meaningful impact in underserved communities.