Corrections Nursing for LVNs

Working As An LVN At One Of California’s Correctional Facilities

So, you’re either already a Licensed Vocational Nurse or are considering going through one of the LVN programs in California. Have you considered working at a correctional facility? Yes, I mean working at a State Prison. Sure, the idea of working around people who have been convicted of violent crimes may be intimidating, at first.

But keep in mind that the Correctional Officers at these facilities are there to protect your safety. When you consider the pay, both for brand new nurses and experienced LVN’s, a position with the California Department of Corrections may be worth looking into.

The pay currently STARTS at $34.65 per hour for a new LVN, to $37.50 for LVN’s with experience. So, on base pay alone, that’s a solid pay package. But that’s not the only consideration. There’s also overtime due to prison lock-downs, and the BENEFITS!

Benefits Working For The California Department Of Corrections

California State employees have some of the best benefits in the Country. Working as an LVN or RN for the California Department of Corrections allows you to benefit from the California State retirement system.

It’s harder than ever these days to find a job that actually offers a pension, but nurses working for the State not only get a guaranteed generous pension, they can also participate in 401(k) plans. When you factor in some of the best health, dental, and vision insurance available, plus FOURTEEN paid holidays per year, it’s worth considering looking into a State position.

Vocational Nursing in Prison Hospitals

The Department of Corrections LVN salary in California is one of the highest in nation. For nurses, there’s also the opportunity to work for one of the State hospitals. These hospitals often house patients who have committed crimes, but have been sentenced to hospitalization.

Many LVNs Make 6 Figure Salaries

One of the other benefits as a nurse with the California Department of Corrections is the Overtime. Whenever there’s a “mandatory lock-down”, nurses stay on the clock until the reason for the lock-down has been resolved. It’s not unusual for LVN’s to make a 6 figure salary when regular pay and overtime are added up!

So, as you’re researching the LVN programs out there, don’t forget about considering a career as a corrections nurse. It’s one of the most lucrative out there!