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Registered Nurse Travel Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Information About Travel RN Positions in Des Moines, IA

At AMN Healthcare, we understand that Registered Nurses seeking travel opportunities in Des Moines are looking for more than just a job; they’re pursuing a rewarding career filled with diverse clinical experiences and professional growth. With over 40 years of leadership in staffing, we proudly support more than 10,000 healthcare professionals annually, providing personalized guidance and resources tailored to your unique career path. Our extensive offerings for travel Registered Nurse positions include in-demand specialties such as Medical Surgical, Telemetry, Emergency Room, Intensive Care Unit, Operating Room, and many more. Whether you have a passion for Labor & Delivery, Pediatric care, or advanced roles in Cath Lab and Rehabilitation, AMN Healthcare is committed to connecting you with rewarding assignments that align with your skills and aspirations. Join us as we empower your journey through continuous support, exceptional opportunities, and a network of professionals dedicated to your success.

Research High-Paying Registered Nurse Opportunities in Des Moines, IA

A few of the highest paying Registered Nurse jobs available in Des Moines, IA include:

AMN Healthcare is currently offering 92 travel Registered Nurse job opportunities in Des Moines, IA, with weekly pay ranging from $1,884 to $3,133 and an average of $2,139 per week. These positions span a variety of specialties including Oncology RN, Outpatient Registered Nurse, and Psychiatric. With start dates available as early as 10/12/26 (2 jobs), 10/19/26 (21 jobs), 10/22/26 (38 jobs), and 10/26/26 (15 jobs), professionals can quickly secure a role that aligns with their career goals.

Jobs are available in zip codes 50314, 50309, and 50316, with additional opportunities in nearby cities such as West Des Moines (5.5 miles), Urbandale (5.6 miles), and Clive (5.9 miles). Whether you’re looking to explore new locations or gain diverse clinical experience, we’re here to help you find the perfect travel Registered Nurse job. Just click Apply Now and we’ll match you with a recruiter to help you find your next Registered Nurse position in or near Des Moines!

Research Recent RN Job Trends in Des Moines

AMN Healthcare has recently filled 1,561 Travel Registered Nurse positions in Des Moines, Iowa demonstrating the high demand for skilled professionals in Electrophysiology Lab, Outpatient Oncology, and Postpartum specialties. These positions offered competitive weekly pay ranging from $762 to $3,575, with an average of $2,262. Jobs were placed in top facilities such as Iowa Methodist Medical Center, Iowa Lutheran Hospital, Blank Children’s Hospital, and Mercy Medical Center – Des Moines .

If you’re looking for your next travel opportunity, these recent placements highlight the range of roles available and the earning potential in this field. AMN Healthcare is committed to helping you find a position that matches your expertise and career goals—connect with us today to explore current openings.

Take a look at a few recently filled Registered Nurse positions in Des Moines, and gain insight into the competitive pay rates and opportunities available.

  • Registered Nurse making $2,089 per week filled on 10/6/26
  • Registered Nurse making $2,002 per week filled on 10/6/26
  • Registered Nurse making $2,001 per week filled on 10/6/26

Registered Nurse Facilities and Duties in Des Moines

In Des Moines, Iowa, Registered Nurses (RNs) can expect a dynamic array of opportunities across various healthcare settings, engaging in specialized roles that cater to diverse patient needs. Whether working in fast-paced environments like the Emergency Room and Intensive Care Units, providing critical care in Progressive Care, or supporting surgical teams in the Operating Room and Ambulatory OR, RNs will play a pivotal role in patient recovery and comfort. Those in Telemetry and Cardiac units will monitor and assess patients’ cardiovascular health, while RNs in Labor & Delivery or Pediatric settings focus on family-centered care in both maternal and pediatric health. Opportunities extend to home health and hospice care, where RNs foster meaningful connections with patients in their own environments, as well as in outpatient clinics, urgent care facilities, and rehabilitation centers. With a commitment to clinical excellence, RNs in Des Moines also participate in roles like case management, clinical education, and risk management, ensuring that they contribute to holistic patient care across the continuum of healthcare services.

Reasons RN Professionals Like to Work a Travel Job in Des Moines, Iowa

As a Registered Nurse considering a travel job in Des Moines, Iowa, you’ll discover a vibrant city brimming with both professional and personal opportunities. Des Moines boasts a welcoming community known for its affordable cost of living, allowing you to enjoy comfortable housing in popular neighborhoods like the trendy East Village or the picturesque Historic Court Avenue District, both teeming with charm and nightlife. The climate features four distinct seasons, offering snowy winters perfect for cozying up indoors and vibrant summers ideal for outdoor festivals and fun. Beyond work, immerse yourself in the local culture with exciting attractions such as the iconic Iowa State Capitol, beautiful parks like Gray’s Lake, or indulge in the bustling farmer’s market. With a thriving arts scene, impressive dining options, and countless recreational activities, Des Moines provides a fulfilling backdrop for both your career and lifestyle.

Find Your Ideal Travel Registered Nurse Jobs in Des Moines

Discover a range of exciting travel Registered Nurse job opportunities waiting for you in Des Moines! Explore the listings below to find the perfect fit for your skills and career goals, and take the next step in your professional journey.

travel Compact State
Registered Nurse – Intensive Care – ICU
  • Des Moines, Iowa – 50314
  • October 22, 2026
$2,980 to $3,133
Weekly Pay*
Travel RN LTAC jobs in Des Moines, IA offer you the chance to provide specialized care for patients with complex medical needs in a supportive community. You will assess, plan, and implement nursing care for patients requiring extended hospitalization at the facility. Required qualifications include an active registered nurse (RN) license and at least one year of recent experience in long-term acute care or a similar setting. Experience with electronic medical record (EMR) systems is recommended. The facility values collaboration, adaptability, and high standards of patient care, creating an environment focused on patient recovery and professional growth. AMN Healthcare offers excellent compensation, discounts and perks, dedicated recruiters and clinical support, the AMN Passport mobile app with 24/7 support, and a commitment to high ethical standards. Apply now to join this Travel RN LTAC assignment in Des Moines, IA.
travel Compact State
Registered Nurse – Cardiac Catheterization Lab
  • Des Moines, Iowa – 50309
  • 10 D,
  • October 26, 2026
  • 13 weeks
$2,740 to $2,881
Weekly Pay*
Iowa Methodist Medical Center was established in 1901 in a single building. Today, Iowa Methodist has become an important regional medical center and teaching hospital. Located in downtown Des Moines on a 42-acre campus, Iowa Methodist employs nearly 4,000 people and has 370 staffed beds. Iowa Methodist is well known throughout the Midwest for cancer care. Iowa Methodist is one of two Level I Trauma Centers in the state of Iowa. Life Flight, the air ambulance program for Iowa Methodist, began in 1979 and continues to fly hundreds of vital missions per year.
travel Compact State
Registered Nurse – Cardiac Catheterization Lab
  • Des Moines, Iowa – 50309
  • 10 D,
  • October 26, 2026
  • 13 weeks
$2,740 to $2,881
Weekly Pay*
Iowa Methodist Medical Center was established in 1901 in a single building. Today, Iowa Methodist has become an important regional medical center and teaching hospital. Located in downtown Des Moines on a 42-acre campus, Iowa Methodist employs nearly 4,000 people and has 370 staffed beds. Iowa Methodist is well known throughout the Midwest for cancer care. Iowa Methodist is one of two Level I Trauma Centers in the state of Iowa. Life Flight, the air ambulance program for Iowa Methodist, began in 1979 and continues to fly hundreds of vital missions per year.
travel Compact State
Registered Nurse – Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab
  • Des Moines, Iowa – 50309
  • 12 D,
  • October 12, 2026
  • 13 weeks
$2,300 to $2,418
Weekly Pay*
Iowa Methodist Medical Center was established in 1901 in a single building. Today, Iowa Methodist has become an important regional medical center and teaching hospital. Located in downtown Des Moines on a 42-acre campus, Iowa Methodist employs nearly 4,000 people and has 370 staffed beds. Iowa Methodist is well known throughout the Midwest for cancer care. Iowa Methodist is one of two Level I Trauma Centers in the state of Iowa. Life Flight, the air ambulance program for Iowa Methodist, began in 1979 and continues to fly hundreds of vital missions per year.
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Job Market Statistics for Travel Registered Nurse Professionals in Des Moines, IA

Understanding the current landscape of travel Registered Nurse jobs in Des Moines can empower you in your career decisions. The statistics presented below offer a comprehensive overview of the job market, highlighting essential trends that can assist you in navigating your next opportunity. From average pay trends over the past three months to a detailed breakdown of average, minimum, and maximum salaries in the past year, this data is invaluable for making informed choices.

Additionally, we have included insights into the count and types of healthcare facilities in Des Moines that are actively hiring, providing you a clearer view of potential employers and work environments. By leveraging this data, you can align your expectations with real market conditions, gain a competitive edge, and seize the best opportunities that this vibrant city has to offer. Dive into the information and discover how it can shape your career path!

Salary Range

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Salary Trends

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Jobs by Facility types

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Frequently Asked Questions about Travel RN Jobs near Des Moines, IA

What is the average pay for a Travel RN job in Des Moines, Iowa?

The average weekly pay for a Travel Registered Nurse job in Des Moines, Iowa is approximately $2,261 per week for Telemetry Registered Nurse, Medical Surgical RN, and Emergency Room RN. This data was last updated on October 8, 2026.

What is the highest weekly pay for a Travel Registered Nurse job in Des Moines?

The highest weekly pay for a Registered Nurse Travel job in Des Moines is $3,575 per week for a Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse. This data was last updated on October 8, 2026.

What types of experience are most commonly required for a Travel Registered Nurse job in Des Moines?

Most travel Registered Nurse positions in Des Moines typically require experience in acute care settings, such as medical-surgical or emergency departments, along with proficiency in electronic medical records systems. Additionally, having strong communication skills and the ability to quickly adapt to new work environments are highly valued.

What types of job opportunities are typically available for RN Travel positions in Des Moines?

Registered Nurse professionals seeking Travel positions in Des Moines can find opportunities in a variety of job types, including per diem, travel, and rapid response roles, including per diem, travel, and rapid response roles, including per diem, travel, and rapid response roles. These positions are available in specialized fields such as Emergency Room, Intensive Care Unit, and Telemetry, offering flexibility and career growth in diverse healthcare settings.

What types of healthcare facilities in Des Moines typically offer Travel positions for Registered Nurse professionals?

In Des Moines, travel positions for Registered Nurse professionals are commonly found in hospitals, urgent care centers, and rehabilitation facilities. These healthcare settings often seek temporary staff to meet fluctuating patient demands and cover staffing shortages.

What types of specialties are common for a Registered Nurse professional working a Travel job in Des Moines, Iowa?

Common specialties for Registered Nurses in travel positions in Des Moines, Iowa, often include emergency room, critical care, and telemetry nursing. Additionally, telemetry and surgical nursing roles are also frequently available, catering to the diverse needs of local healthcare facilities. The demand for nurses in these areas allows for a variety of opportunities for travelers. Overall, the travel nurse experience can be enriching, allowing professionals to work in different settings while honing their skills.

What are some keys reasons a Travel Registered Nurse professional might consider seeking a Telemetry, Medical Surgical, and Emergency Room job in Des Moines?

Travel Registered Nurses may consider seeking a job in Des Moines due to its affordable cost of living and the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the area. Additionally, the city’s friendly atmosphere and access to a variety of recreational activities can enhance both work and life balance.

What are some most popular areas in Des Moines a Travel RN professionals would prefer to work and live?

Travel Registered Nurse professionals in Des Moines often prefer to work and live in areas like Downtown, where they have access to hospitals, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Neighborhoods such as East Village and the Western Gateway also appeal due to their vibrant community, entertainment options, and close proximity to healthcare facilities. Additionally, areas with easy commutes and a lively atmosphere can provide a balanced lifestyle during their assignments.

What important factors should a Travel Registered Nurse professionals consider when evaluating a new position?

Travel Registered Nurse professionals should consider the location and cost of living in their new position, as these factors can greatly affect their overall satisfaction and financial well-being. Additionally, the facility’s reputation, available support, and the specific job responsibilities are crucial to ensure a positive work environment. Lastly, it’s important to evaluate the benefits package offered, including healthcare and housing stipends, to ensure it meets their personal and professional needs.

Which US Cities Offer Job Opportunities Similar to Des Moines for Registered Nurse Professionals

One city that offers a similar environment to Des Moines, Iowa, for Registered Nurses is Omaha, Nebraska. Omaha features a thriving healthcare scene with several hospitals and medical facilities, giving nurses ample job opportunities in fields such as Medical Surgical, Telemetry, and Emergency Room. The cost of living in Omaha is generally affordable, comparable to that of Des Moines, and housing options range from charming older homes to new developments in suburban areas. With its friendly Midwestern vibe, Omaha provides a balanced lifestyle with a range of recreational options, including parks, museums, and an emerging food scene, ensuring that there is always something to do in your free time.

Another option is Cedar Rapids, Iowa, which offers a similar work environment, being just a couple of hours from Des Moines. Cedar Rapids has numerous healthcare institutions that cater to a variety of nursing specialties, including emergency and critical care. The cost of living in Cedar Rapids is also low, making it financially feasible for nurses starting their careers or looking to settle down. The city boasts a community-oriented atmosphere, with family-friendly activities, local festivals, and a rich arts scene, along with plenty of recreational outdoor activities along its rivers and parks, which contribute to a fulfilling lifestyle.

In addition, Springfield, Missouri, shares parallels with Des Moines regarding job opportunities for Registered Nurses. Springfield’s healthcare sector is robust, offering various positions in hospitals and specialty clinics suitable for nurses in Medical Surgical and Telemetry fields. The city’s cost of living is reasonably affordable, and housing options range from affordable urban apartments to more spacious suburban homes. Springfield also has a variety of parks, cultural attractions, and seasonal recreational activities, providing a well-rounded lifestyle for those living and working there, along with a pleasant climate that features mild winters and warm summers.

Fort Wayne, Indiana, is another city that presents a similar experience for Registered Nurses. This city has seen significant healthcare growth, with many hospitals and clinics providing diverse nursing opportunities, particularly for those in the Emergency Room and Telemetry departments. The cost of living in Fort Wayne is low, and the housing market is favorable, making it an attractive option for new graduates and seasoned professionals alike. The community is vibrant, offering a range of activities such as arts, festivals, and outdoor events in its many parks, supporting a relaxed yet engaging lifestyle for residents.

Lastly, Madison, Wisconsin, is a great alternative for those considering a career in nursing akin to what one might find in Des Moines. Madison features high-quality healthcare facilities and a strong demand for nurses across various specialties, including Telemetry and Emergency Room settings. While the cost of living can be slightly higher than that in Des Moines, it still remains manageable relative to many other urban areas. The city is known for its beautiful lakes, vibrant cultural scene, and numerous educational opportunities related to healthcare, making it an excellent place for both personal and professional growth. The lifestyle in Madison is engaging, with a focus on outdoor activities, dining, and community events, ensuring a high quality of life for residents.

Des Moines, IA Healthcare Facilities With a History of Hiring Travel Registered Nurse Professionals

Des Moines boasts a diverse array of healthcare facilities that have established a reputation for hiring Registered Nurses in travel positions, particularly in Medical Surgical, Telemetry, and Emergency Room settings. These leading institutions offer dynamic opportunities for nursing professionals seeking to expand their experience in a vibrant community dedicated to quality patient care.

Blank Children’s Hospital
Blank Children’s Hospital is a children’s hospital located at 1200 Pleasant Street in Des Moines, IA. Clinical departments include NICU, PICU, pediatric emergency (Pedi ER), general pediatrics and an ER. The facility’s clinical staff includes nursing, supporting inpatient and emergency pediatric care across neonatal, intensive care and emergency units.
1200 Pleasant Street, DES MOINES, IA 50309
Departments
NICU, Pedi, PICU, Pedi ER, and ER
Shifts: 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 13 wks and 14 wks
Iowa Lutheran Hospital
Iowa Lutheran Hospital is a short-term acute care hospital located at 700 E. University Ave., Des Moines, IA. Departments include MS, OR, Psych, Rehab, ER, Telemetry and PCU, and the facility employs nursing personnel. As a short-term acute care hospital, it provides inpatient acute medical and surgical services supported by nursing staff.
700 E. UNIVERSITY AVE., DES MOINES, IA 50316
Departments
OR, Psych, Rehab, Telemetry, ER, PCU, and MS
Shifts: 8 E, 8 N, 10 D, 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 4 wks, 9 wks, 11 wks, and 13 wks
Iowa Methodist Medical Center
Iowa Methodist Medical Center is a short-term acute care hospital at 1200 Pleasant Street in Des Moines, IA. Services and departments include a Cath Lab and telemetry, emergency department, ICU and PCU, operating rooms and post-anesthesia care, labor & delivery with postpartum care, oncology, dialysis, medical-surgical units and rehabilitation. The facility employs nursing and allied health professionals.
1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
Departments
ER, Oncology, MS, Cath Lab, ICU, Rehab, Telemetry, Dialysis, OR, Labor & Delivery, PCU, and Postpartum
Shifts: 10 D, 10 N, 12 D, and 12 N
Durations: 4 wks, 8 wks, 13 wks, and 14 wks
Lucas County Health Center
Lucas County Health Center is a critical access hospital at 1200 N. 7Th St., Chariton, IA, with 25 beds and established in 2002. Clinical capabilities include pharmacy, anesthesia, chemotherapy, clinical laboratory and comprehensive diagnostic imaging (CT, MRI, PET, nuclear medicine), along with respiratory care and a range of therapies and rehabilitation services; the facility operates two operating rooms and lists outpatient surgery, ophthalmic and orthopedic surgical services plus a postoperative recovery room and swing bed. Departments include emergency (ER), medical/surgical and surgical ICUs, inpatient surgical and pediatric units and outpatient rehabilitation, and the facility reports professions spanning nursing, physicians, allied health, advanced practice and support services; it also sponsors Allopathic, Osteopathic, Dental, Podiatric and other residency program types and has a workforce equivalent to approximately 187 full-time positions.
1200 N. 7TH ST., CHARITON, IA 50049
25 certified beds 2 operating rooms Established 2002
SERVICES
Pharmacy
Anesthesia
Chemotherapy
Clinical Laboratory
CT Scan
Departments
MS, ER, Emergency Department, Inpatient Surgical, Intensive Care Unit (Medical/Surgical ICU), Ophthalmic Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery (Hospital), Outpatient Rehabilitation, Outpatient Surgery, Pediatric, and Surgical ICU
Shifts: 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 7 wks and 13 wks
Mercy Medical Center – Des Moines
Mercy Medical Center – Des Moines is a short-term acute care hospital located at 1111 6th Avenue in Des Moines, IA. Departments include Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Laboratory, Adult services, Polysomnography, Diagnostic Radiology, Computed Tomography, Cath Lab and Echo, supporting both diagnostic and procedural care. As a short-term acute care hospital, it relies on nursing and allied clinicians to deliver inpatient and procedural services.
1111 6th Avenue, DES MOINES, IA 50314
Departments
Laboratory, Polysomnography, Adult, Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Echo, Cath Lab, Diagnostic, and Radiology
Shifts: 8 D, 8 E, 10 D, 10 E, 12 D, and 12 N
Durations: 8 wks, 12 wks, 13 wks, 14 wks, and 26 wks
MercyOne Clive Rehabilitation Hospital (FKA Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital)
MercyOne Clive Rehabilitation Hospital (FKA Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital) is a rehabilitation hospital located at 1401 Campus Dr in Clive, IA. Departments include Inpatient Rehab and Rehab, and clinical staffing lists nursing. As a rehabilitation hospital, it provides inpatient rehabilitative care with nursing support focused on restoring function after acute injury, illness, or surgery.
1401 Campus Dr, Clive, IA 50325
Departments
Inpatient Rehab and Rehab
Shifts: 12 D and 12 N
Durations: -22 wks, -20 wks, -16 wks, -8 wks, -5 wks, 6 wks, 8 wks, 13 wks, and 53 wks
Methodist West Hospital
Rainbow Pediatrics is a short-term acute care hospital located at 1701 N. Collins Blvd., Richardson, TX, near the Buckingham neighborhood. Departments include MS, Labor & Delivery, ER, and OR, and the facility lists nursing among its clinical professions. As a short-term acute care hospital with nursing staff, it provides acute inpatient care along with obstetric, emergency, and operative services.
1660 60th St, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Departments
MS, Labor & Delivery, OR, and ER
Shifts: 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 4 wks, 6 wks, 13 wks, and 14 wks
Pella Regional Health Center
TJC
Non-Profit
Pella Regional Health Center is a critical access hospital at 404 Jefferson Street in Pella, IA, established in 2005 with 25 beds, nonprofit ownership and accredited by TJC. Its clinical footprint includes ICU/medical-surgical and surgical ICU services, emergency department with emergency psychiatric care, labor and delivery/obstetrics, pediatric care, inpatient and outpatient surgery and rehabilitation, designated trauma services and an urgent care center; the facility operates five operating rooms and two endoscopy rooms and offers imaging and procedural support such as CT, MRI, PET, nuclear medicine and a clinical laboratory. The workforce is equivalent to approximately 583 full-time positions and the staff mix encompasses physicians, nursing, advanced practice clinicians, allied health and support services, with affiliated residency programs in allopathic, osteopathic, dental, podiatric and other training tracks.
404 Jefferson Street, PELLA, IA 50219
25 certified beds 5 operating rooms Established 2005
SERVICES
Pharmacy
Anesthesia
Audiology
Chemotherapy
Clinical Laboratory
Departments
ICU, Outpatient Clinic, Labor & Delivery, MS, CARF Inpatient Rehabilitation, Designated Trauma Center, Emergency Department, Emergency Psychiatric, Inpatient Surgical, Intensive Care Unit (Medical/Surgical ICU), Obstetrics (OB/L&D), Ophthalmic Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery (Hospital), Outpatient Rehabilitation, Outpatient Surgery, Pediatric, Surgical ICU, and Urgent Care Center
Shifts: 8 D, 12 D, and 12 N
Durations: 12 wks and 13 wks
Trinity – MercyOne Newton Medical Center
Trinity – MercyOne Newton Medical Center is a short-term acute care hospital located at 204 N 4th Ave E in Newton, IA, with clinical departments that include ICU, ER, Telemetry, and medical-surgical (MS) units. As a short-term acute care hospital, it provides urgent and inpatient services across those specialty areas and employs nursing professionals to deliver bedside, critical care, and emergency nursing functions.
204 N 4th Ave E, NEWTON, IA 50208
Departments
ICU, Telemetry, ER, and MS
Shifts: 12 D and 12 N
Durations: 12 wks and 13 wks
UnityPoint Health – Methodist West Hospital – MSP
UnityPoint Health – Methodist West Hospital – MSP is a short-term acute care hospital located at 1660 60Th Street in West Des Moines, IA with clinical departments that include MS, ER, Labor & Delivery, and OR. Nursing and allied health professionals are among the on-site clinical staff. As a short-term acute care hospital, the facility provides inpatient medical-surgical care, emergency services, operative procedures, and obstetric services typical of this type of hospital.
1660 60TH STREET, WEST DES MOINES, IA 50266
Departments
ER, MS, OR, and Labor & Delivery
Shifts: 10 D, 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 1 wks, 6 wks, 12 wks, 13 wks, and 14 wks
* Estimate of payments is intended for informational purposes and includes hourly wages, as well as reimbursements for meal & incidental expenses and housing expenses incurred on behalf of the Company. Please speak with a recruiter for additional details.