Per Diem Nursing Jobs in New Orleans, Louisiana
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Working as a nurse in New Orleans
Healthcare in New Orleans is as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re working near the Central Business District, commuting from Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Slidell, or the West Bank, there are flexible opportunities for RNs, LPNs, and CNAs across hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, long-term care communities, and senior living facilities. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income or create a schedule that fits your lifestyle, per diem work gives you the flexibility to choose when and where you work.
Major healthcare systems like Ochsner Health, LCMC Health, University Medical Center New Orleans, Touro Infirmary, East Jefferson General Hospital, and Children’s Hospital New Orleans serve patients throughout southeast Louisiana. In addition to these major hospitals, the region has a large network of skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, memory care communities, and assisted living facilities that regularly need qualified healthcare professionals.
If you’re licensed in another state, Louisiana is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) member, allowing eligible RNs and LPNs with a multistate license to practice in Louisiana without obtaining an additional state license. CNAs must meet Louisiana certification requirements.
Many healthcare professionals choose per diem work in New Orleans because it offers flexibility around family responsibilities, nursing school, and full-time employment. Others appreciate the ability to pick up shifts closer to home and avoid commuting across the metro area, especially during festivals, major events, or peak tourism seasons. With Switch, you can browse available shifts, choose the ones that fit your schedule, and get paid quickly, giving you more control over your time and your income.
About New Orleans
Home to nearly 370,000 residents and more than 1.2 million people across the greater metro area, New Orleans is known around the world for its rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable food. The city is famous for the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, Mardi Gras, live jazz, and award-winning Creole and Cajun cuisine. Residents and visitors also enjoy neighborhoods like the Garden District, Uptown, Mid-City, and the Warehouse District. Healthcare remains one of the area’s largest employment sectors, making New Orleans a great place for professionals searching for per diem nursing jobs in New Orleans, RN jobs, LPN jobs, CNA jobs, and flexible healthcare careers. Whether you’re a longtime local or relocating to Louisiana, Switch helps you find local healthcare shifts that work with your schedule.
Nursing pay in New Orleans, Louisiana
RNs in the New Orleans area typically earn $36–$46/hr, LPNs $25–$31, and CNAs $15–$18 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025).
Figures show typical area wages for staff roles (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025) and vary by facility, shift, and experience. Per diem shifts on Switch often pay above these averages — you’ll see the exact rate on every shift before you claim it.
What nurses say about Switch
“Working for Switch has been a wonderful experience and has also been empowering for a busy mom like myself. I have the privilege to pick and choose my own schedule and work around my hectic schedule outside of work as a parent.”
“I have been with Switch for about five years now and the thing that I like the best about them is because they care about their workers. They pay me quickly, which is a good thing. Being with Switch brings me peace of mind. Great agency to work for!”
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FAQs about working in New Orleans
Do I need a Louisiana nursing license to work per diem shifts in New Orleans?
Louisiana is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If you hold a qualifying multistate RN or LPN license from another compact state, you can generally work in Louisiana without obtaining a separate Louisiana nursing license. CNAs must hold a valid Louisiana certification before accepting shifts.
How much do per diem nurses and CNAs make in New Orleans?
Pay varies based on your license, experience, facility type, and current demand. Weekend, holiday, overnight, and high-demand shifts may offer increased pay. With Switch, you'll always see the pay before accepting a shift.
Does Switch have shifts throughout New Orleans?
Yes. Switch connects healthcare professionals with opportunities throughout the New Orleans metro area, including Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Harvey, Slidell, Marrero, and other nearby communities as facilities become available.
Can I work per diem shifts while keeping my full-time nursing job?
Absolutely. Many RNs, LPNs, and CNAs use Switch to supplement their income while working full-time, attending nursing school, or balancing family responsibilities. You choose the shifts that fit your schedule with no minimum hour requirements.