PRN Nursing Jobs in Montana: Ultimate Guide [2024]

Want to pick up high-paying PRN jobs in Montana? Nursa is a marNursing professionals in "The Treasure State" can discover what the state offers nurses and nursing assistants in this ultimate guide to working in Montana, from top nursing schools to excellent job opportunities and more.ketplace that connects nurses and CNAs with shifts near them.

Are you a nurse or nursing assistant working in Montana? Nursing professionals can find RN, LPN, and CNA jobs in Montana with Nursa. This guide will provide an overview of what the Treasure State offers nursing professionals, including average wages, nursing schools, cheapest cities, and how to find PRN nursing jobs.

RN, LPN, and CNA salary information throughout this guide comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and living wage information is from the MIT Living Wage Calculator (most recent data as of January 2024).

How Much Do Nurses in Montana Make?

Salary in Montana’s nursing field varies based on your workplace and qualifications. Bustling healthcare hubs like Billings, Missoula, and Bozeman offer excellent prospects, with CNAs, LPNs, and RNs finding competitive pay in line with their jobs.

In smaller towns or rural areas, such as Dillon, Lewistown, and White Sulphur Springs, the pace and atmosphere change, and nursing salaries are typically lower than in urban centers. However, these areas attract nurses seeking a community-centric environment and quieter lifestyle.

Wages across Montana’s cities are intriguingly diverse. In Anaconda and Butte, compensation is competitive, mirroring these cities’ active healthcare scenes. Conrad and Glendive offer balanced wages that align with living costs, while Hardin and Havre harmonize wages with modest living expenses. Helena, with its governmental hub, and Libby, known for its quiet charm, provide attractive wages. Livingston and Wolf Point match compensation to their community-centric healthcare settings. Finally, Hamilton and Scobey balance nursing salaries with local lifestyle and healthcare demands, ensuring a professionally satisfying experience.

To adapt to this economic diversity, many nurses in Montana look for flexible PRN nursing jobs with high hourly pay. Nursa connects clinicians with flexible, high-paying per diem jobs across Montana. Nursa can be an excellent way for nursing professionals to earn more money while enjoying flexibility, while working in various healthcare settings.

Which Are the Highest-Paying Cities in Montana?

This table presents the average wages for nurses and nursing assistants across Montana. It lists cities in descending order, beginning with the top-paying locales for registered nurses, and includes average salaries for practical nurses and nursing assistants.

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Montana’s urban areas, particularly Billings, Missoula, and Bozeman, offer high-paying nursing jobs in the state. However, cities like Helena and Great Falls also provide competitive wages. In rural areas like Plentywood and Warm Springs, wages are lower but often offset by a lower cost of living.

Browse PRN nursing jobs in Montana for higher-than-average hourly pay for nurses and nursing assistants.

Some of the Best Hospitals and Other Medical Centers in MT

Montana boasts numerous top-notch hospitals and other healthcare facilities, offering diverse career opportunities, such as jobs in the emergency room (ER), intensive care unit (ICU), and medical-surgical (med/surg) departments.

Some of the most highly acclaimed healthcare facilities in Montana include the following:

• Billings Clinic: This clinic is the largest healthcare organization in the region and is highly regarded for its advanced care across numerous specialties. It integrates cutting-edge research and technology in patient treatment, making it a leader in healthcare innovation.

• Bozeman Health: Located in the Gallatin Valley and distinguished for its comprehensive healthcare services, it emphasizes a community-focused approach, catering to the holistic wellness of its patients and making it a cornerstone of healthcare in the area.

• St. Patrick Hospital: Located in Missoula and specializing in cardiac and cancer care, this hospital sets high standards in these specialties with its state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centered approach. 

• Benefis Health System: Based in Great Falls, this system offers a wide range of medical services and is known for its integrated healthcare approach and dedication to improving community health. It plays a pivotal part in the region’s healthcare landscape.

• Logan Health: Located in scenic Northwest Montana, Logan Health excels in providing advanced medical services. It focuses on delivering compassionate care tailored to the region’s unique needs, making it a critical healthcare provider in the area. 

What Are the Best Nursing Schools in Montana?

Are you thinking about a career in nursing? Montana boasts a variety of nursing programs accredited by the state’s Board of Nursing, encompassing a wide range of licensure options. Prominent nursing institutions in the state include the following:

• Montana State University: This school offers a comprehensive suite of nursing programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which provides foundational nursing education, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) suitable for advanced practice roles, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) focused on clinical expertise and leadership.

• The University of Montana: This institution stands out for its innovative MSN program, which caters to advanced practice nurses and features a DNP program that emphasizes clinical practice in rural and underserved areas, aligning with Montana’s unique healthcare needs.

• Carroll College: Well-known for its personalized approach, the college offers a BSN program that combines rigorous academic training with hands-on clinical experiences, effectively preparing graduates for successful nursing careers in various healthcare settings.

• Salish Kootenai College: This college is dedicated to serving the Native American community and provides a culturally enriched BSN program emphasizing holistic nursing care and community health and designed to address the healthcare needs of tribal communities.

• Montana Tech: Renowned for its strong focus on practical skills, the institution offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program, ideal for those aiming to enter the nursing profession promptly, with a significant emphasis on hands-on clinical experience.

For nursing license applications in Montana, visit the Montana State Board of Nursing. If you are already a licensed nurse, Nursys provides a national verification platform to look up the status of your Montana RN or LPN license.  

Working as a nursing assistant before becoming a nurse is common in Montana. Cities throughout Montana, including Conrad, Culbertson, and McLeod, offer nursing assistants opportunities to acquire nursing experience and an attractive income. Nursa offers flexible, well-paid shifts for nursing assistants, helping them gain valuable field experience.  

What Are the Cheapest Cities in Montana?

While Montana’s urban centers like Billings and Bozeman have a higher cost of living, several affordable cities offer reasonable living options. Cities like Anaconda, Lewistown, and Dillon balance affordability and quality of life, making them attractive for healthcare workers.

• Havre: Nestled in Northern Montana, Havre is known for its affordability, with a cost of living lower than the national average, making it an appealing option for residents seeking low-cost living. The city offers limited public transportation options, primarily relying on personal vehicles and some local bus services. Havre is approximately 230 miles from the nearest metropolitan city, Great Falls, offering small-town tranquility while providing access to urban amenities. The city’s remoteness contributes to its serene charm and strong community spirit.

• Butte: Located in Southwest Montana, Butte stands out for its historical significance and relatively affordable living costs. Public transportation is available, including bus services that facilitate travel within the city. Butte is about 60 miles away from the state capital, Helena, providing a balance of affordable small-town living and proximity to a larger urban center. The city’s rich mining history and cultural heritage add to its unique appeal.

• Hamilton: Nestled in the Bitterroot Valley, Hamilton is known for its stunning natural beauty and reasonable cost of living. The town offers limited public transportation, with most residents relying on personal vehicles. It’s approximately 45 miles south of Missoula, the nearest metropolitan area, blending the allure of rural life with convenient access to city amenities. Hamilton’s scenic surroundings and outdoor recreation opportunities make it desirable for nature enthusiasts.

• Libby: Situated in the northwest corner of Montana, Libby boasts affordable housing and a low cost of living. Public transportation options are minimal, with a local shuttle service providing limited connectivity. The nearest metropolitan city, Kalispell, is about 90 miles away, offering residents a peaceful, small-town environment with urban services within reach. Libby’s proximity to natural wonders, including Kootenai Falls, enhances its appeal for outdoor lovers.

• Livingston: Located along the Yellowstone River, Livingston is known for its artistic community and cost-effective living. The city offers basic public transportation services, though many residents prefer personal vehicles for commuting. Livingston is approximately 110 miles from Billings, the nearest metropolitan city, providing a harmonious mix of affordable living, artistic culture, and access to urban facilities. Its proximity to Yellowstone National Park makes it an attractive destination for tourists and residents alike.

Health Insurance in Montana

Healthcare workers in Montana, understanding the high costs of medical treatments, recognize the importance of health insurance. Many have employer-provided plans; however, independent contractors do not. Medicaid is an option for those not covered by employer insurance, and many Montanans rely on it for healthcare coverage.

If you don’t have employer insurance or aren’t eligible for Medicaid, explore options through the Montana State Insurance Department for individual or family plans.

Fun Things to Do in Montana

Montana offers a wealth of activities:

• Glacier National Park:  Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Glacier National Park offers a myriad of outdoor adventures, from scenic drives along the Going-to-the-Sun Road to over 700 miles of hiking trails showcasing spectacular mountain vistas and pristine lakes. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot diverse species, including grizzly bears and mountain goats, while the park’s many glaciers and alpine meadows provide stunning backdrops for photography.

• Museum of the Rockies, Bozeman: This renowned museum, affiliated with Montana State University, is a treasure trove of natural history. It features one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils, including the famous Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, and offers interactive exhibits on the geological and cultural history of the Rocky Mountain region.

• Big Sky Resort: As one of North America’s largest ski resorts, Big Sky Resort boasts over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, suitable for all skill levels. During the warmer months, it transforms into a haven for outdoor activities like mountain biking, zip-lining, and golf, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

• Little Bighorn Battlefield: This historic site commemorates the 1876 Battle of the Little Bighorn, offering a poignant look into the clash between the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry and the Sioux and Cheyenne warriors. Visitors can explore the battlefield, view memorials, and participate in ranger-led programs to understand this significant event in American history.
• Flathead Lake: As the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States, Flathead Lake is a paradise for water enthusiasts, offering activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and surrounding orchards and vineyards make it a picturesque destination for picnicking and scenic drives.

How to Find Per Diem Jobs in Montana

Montana’s diverse landscape sees nurses and nursing assistants working tirelessly to ensure residents’ health and well-being, reflecting the profession’s esteemed reputation. Nursa connects Montana’s healthcare professionals with PRN nursing jobs, offering flexibility and competitive pay. By downloading Nursa, nurses in Montana can find jobs that suit their schedules and preferences, enhancing their careers with flexibility and attractive hourly rates at various healthcare facilities.

Sources:

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (Montana)
• MIT Living Wage Calculator: Counties and Metropolitan Statistical Areas in Montana
• United States Census Bureau: Montana