CNA Salary Expectations

Regardless of the profession, salary expectations fluctuate greatly depending on geographic location. Typically, CNAs who work in large cities earn more money than CNAs who work in smaller towns. Salaries also fluctuate from employer to employer. A large hospital may not pay a CNA as much as a private nursing home.

In addition, a CNA who has many years of experience is likely to gain a better position than someone who does not have any practical experience. Attaining a university degree is another way to secure a high-paying CNA position.

Typical North American Pay Scale

Certified nursing assistants have an advantage. A globe shortage of nurses and nursing assistants is driving up the average CNA salary. Within North America, the average CNA starting salary fluctuates from 20,000 per year to 30,000 per year.

As mentioned, this number varies according to a number of different factors. In addition to geographical location, CNAs who have more experience tend to make more money. In some instances, experience CNA be traded for additional education. A CNA who spends more than the required amount of time in nursing school may, for example, earn more than a CNA who spent a short amount of time in school.

Private VS. Public Sector

Many CNAs CNA find work immediately following graduation. Hospitals tend to employ the most CNAs, though a hospital may not be the best place to earn a high salary. Publically funded hospitals are restricted budget-wise, which means that a CNA who works in a hospital may earn significantly less than a CNA who works in a private home.

Nursing schools also hire CNAs. Some schools select new graduates who work within a school setting. These professionals help future CNAs learn about nursing. While a school may pay more than a hospital, private hospitals and homes still pay more than nursing schools. Thus, competition between CNAs attempting to gain private employment is fierce.

Finding Employment As a CNA

Most CNAs choose the certified nursing assistant path in order to help people. Yet, it’s also important to earn enough money to live comfortably. Therefore, gaining a top paying job as a CNA is crucial. There are two ways to secure a job that pays well.

The first way is to gain experience. This may mean taking a job that doesn’t pay well for a few years. After four years working as a CNA, most people will be able to secure better job positions. The second way is to attend a university in lieu of an online course or technical school degree. Generally, CNAs who have university degrees earn more money than those people who do not have university degrees.