Finding the right place to grow Iin Rn jobs Oshkosh Wi your nursing career can change everything—from your earning potential to your overall job satisfaction. Oshkosh, Wisconsin, once known mainly for Lake Winnebago views and aviation events, has become one of the region’s most promising destinations for registered nurses. Whether you’re a seasoned RN ready for your next move, a new graduate exploring your first job in Rn jobs Oshkosh wi, or a travel nurse searching for strong contracts, Oshkosh offers opportunities that are hard to ignore.
Key Takeaways
- RN jobs in Oshkosh, WI, are expanding due to rising healthcare demands and hospital system growth.
- Competitive pay, strong benefit packages, and stable work environments make Oshkosh a standout for nurses.
- The city offers diverse work settings—hospitals, clinics, specialty centers, home care, and senior living.
- Oshkosh provides an affordable lifestyle compared to larger metro areas in Wisconsin.
- High demand exists for specialty RNs such as ICU, ER, surgical, and behavioral health nurses.
Why Oshkosh, WI Is Becoming a Magnet for Registered Nurses
Oshkosh has seen steady population growth, a rise in healthcare utilization, and greater investments in medical infrastructure. Major employers like Ascension Mercy Hospital, Aurora Health Care, ThedaCare, and multiple long-term care and rehabilitation centers have significantly expanded services over the last decade.
This growth has triggered a consistent need for RNs across various specialties. Unlike some oversaturated markets, Oshkosh continues to offer a healthy balance between available positions and manageable competition, making it ideal for nurses seeking stability and upward mobility for Rn jobs Oshkosh Wi.
Beyond its healthcare landscape, Oshkosh offers an affordable cost of living, safe neighborhoods, a lively cultural scene, and outdoor recreation that attracts both young professionals and experienced nurses considering relocation for Rn jobs Oshkosh Wi.
Growing Demand for RNs in Oshkosh: What’s Driving It?
Several factors have contributed to the continuous rise in RN job openings:
1. Aging Population
Oshkosh and surrounding communities are experiencing demographic shifts, with an increasing number of older adults requiring skilled nursing care. This has led to expanded long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and geriatric programs.
2. Staff Shortages in Healthcare
Like most states, Wisconsin faces staffing shortages in nursing, but Oshkosh hospitals and clinics have responded with improved benefits, retention efforts, and flexible scheduling to attract qualified RNs.
3. Expansion of Specialized Medical Services
The city has grown its capabilities in cardiology, orthopedics, surgical care, and behavioral health—creating new specialty positions for experienced nurses.
4. Growth of Telehealth and Outpatient Clinics
More clinics are opening or expanding services to keep up with community demand, offering RNs more options beyond hospital-based roles.
Top RN Specialties in High Demand in Oshkosh
Oshkosh’s healthcare sector is looking for a wide range of nursing specialties. The following roles consistently appear among the most in-demand:
ICU / Critical Care Nurses
Intensive care units in Oshkosh hospitals have grown and require highly skilled RNs who can handle advanced patient monitoring and emergency interventions.
Emergency Room Nurses
ER departments experience steady patient flow, making ER RNs essential to fast-paced care environments.
Medical-Surgical Nurses
Med-surg nurses remain one of the backbone roles across hospitals and inpatient units.
Surgical / OR Nurses
With growing surgical departments and same-day procedure centers, OR nurses are especially valued.
Labor & Delivery Nurses
Oshkosh’s family and maternity services frequently seek compassionate, skilled L&D nurses.
Behavioral Health Nurses
Mental health units and rehabilitation centers need experienced RNs able to support individuals facing emotional and psychiatric challenges.
Home Health & Hospice Nurses
As more patients choose care at home, agencies continue to hire RNs willing to provide compassionate community-based care.
Where RNs Work in Oshkosh: Major Employers
Several top healthcare organizations fuel the job market:
Ascension NE Wisconsin – Mercy Campus
A full-service hospital offering emergency care, surgical services, ICU units, and specialty departments.
Aurora Health Care Clinics
Multiple clinics and outpatient facilities serving primary and specialty care needs.
ThedaCare Medical Center
A major healthcare provider offering inpatient and urgent care services.
Evergreen Retirement Community
A well-known senior living community seeking RNs for geriatric and long-term care roles.
Home Health & Hospice Agencies
These include nationally recognized providers offering meaningful community care positions.
Average RN Salary in Oshkosh, WI
While salaries vary by experience and specialty, RNs in Oshkosh typically earn:
- $34–$45 per hour (staff nurse roles)
- $72,000–$95,000 annually (full-time positions)
- $1,900–$2,700 weekly (travel nursing contracts)
Specialty areas such as ICU, ER, and OR often earn at the higher end of the range, with some facilities offering sign-on bonuses ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the shortage level and shift type.
Benefits Offered to RNs in Oshkosh
Healthcare employers in Oshkosh often provide strong benefits packages, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support
- Retirement plans with employer match
- Flexible scheduling options (day, night, weekend rotations)
- Paid leave and wellness programs
- Childcare support at select facilities
These benefits play a major role in helping hospitals retain experienced nurses and support new hires.
Work-Life Balance and Lifestyle Advantages
Oshkosh is a mid-sized city that blends urban convenience with Wisconsin’s signature natural beauty. Nurses relocating to Oshkosh often highlight:
Affordable Housing in Rn jobs Oshkosh Wi
Compared to Madison or Milwaukee, Oshkosh offers lower home prices and rental rates.
Outdoor Activities in Rn jobs Oshkosh Wi
With Lake Winnebago and the Fox River nearby, residents enjoy boating, fishing, biking, and scenic walking trails.
Community Atmosphere in Rn jobs Oshkosh Wi
The city is known for safety, friendly residents, and a welcoming environment for families and young professionals.
Events and Culture in RN jobs Oshkosh Wi
Oshkosh hosts festivals, concerts, art fairs, and the world-famous EAA AirVenture, drawing thousands each year.
How to Land an RN Job in Oshkosh: Practical Tips
1. Tailor Your Resume
Highlight clinical experience, certifications, and specialty skills relevant to Oshkosh’s most in-demand roles.
2. Earn Additional Certifications
Credentials like ACLS, PALS, CCRN, or TNCC can boost your chances, especially for specialty units.
3. Apply Early and Follow Up
Hospitals in Oshkosh often hire on a rolling basis, so follow-up communication helps you stand out.
4. Consider Travel and Temporary Positions
Travel contracts offer excellent pay and may lead to permanent roles.
5. Network with Local Healthcare Professionals
Joining nursing groups or attending career fairs can help you discover openings faster.
Best Places to Find RN Job Listings in Oshkosh
- Hospital and clinic career pages
- Healthcare staffing agencies
- Wisconsin nursing job boards
- Local community job portals
- National job sites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn
Applying directly through the hospital website often results in faster recruiter response times.
Final Thoughts: Should You Pursue RN Jobs in Oshkosh, WI?
If you’re looking for a location that offers career stability, strong earning potential, and a balanced lifestyle, Oshkosh is one of Wisconsin’s most promising destinations for registered nurses. With healthcare expanding, employers investing in staff support, and a warm community atmosphere, it’s a place where nurses can grow professionally while enjoying a fulfilling everyday life.
Whether you prefer hospital shifts, community care, clinic work, or specialized units, Oshkosh provides plenty of pathways to build a rewarding nursing career in Rn jobs Oshkosh Wi.
FAQs
Are RN jobs easy to find in Oshkosh?
Yes. Oshkosh currently has strong demand for RNs across hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, making job opportunities widely available.
What is the average salary for RNs in Oshkosh?
Most RNs earn between $34–$45 per hour, with specialty and experience increasing pay potential.
Which RN specialties are most in demand?
ICU, ER, OR, med-surg, behavioral health, and home health/hospice are among the highest-demand specialties.
Do Oshkosh hospitals offer sign-on bonuses?
Many facilities offer sign-on incentives ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, especially for night shifts or specialty roles.
Is Oshkosh a good place for travel nurses?
Absolutely. Travel contracts in Oshkosh often come with high weekly pay rates and chances for contract extensions.