Med/Surg RN in Des Moines, Iowa
- Agency
- Atlas MedStaff
- Location
- Des Moines, IA
- Job type
- Travel
- Pay
- $2,798/Per Week
- Profession
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Industry
- Nursing & Healthcare
- Posted
- Sep 29, 2026
Pay breakdown
- Hourly
- $77.72
- Weekly
- $2,798
- Yearly (full-time)
- $145,496
- Contract length
- 13 weeks
This job pays about $77.72/hour — 106% above the median for Registered Nurse (RN) jobs in Iowa ($37.80/hour). The total includes tax-free housing and meal stipends, which staff jobs don't pay, so take-home pay is usually higher than the hourly figure suggests.
Estimated from the weekly pay in the listing, 36 hours a week; yearly = 52 weeks. Median wage: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.
Registered Nurse (RN) jobs in Iowa right now
- 849 open Registered Nurse (RN) jobs in Iowa from 6 agencies, 282 of them in Des Moines.
- Pay in these listings: $17.80 – $112/hour, median $57.36/hour.
- Typical Registered Nurse (RN) pay in Iowa: $37.80/hour ($78,624/year, BLS).
- Highest median pay: AHS Staffing ($60.25/hour across 429 jobs).
Job description
Join us for a 13-week travel contract in Des Moines, Iowa, where you'll spend nights making a real difference on a Medical Surgical unit. This role involves working 12-hour night shifts, providing critical care to pulmonary and ventilated patients, including those with COVID-19. Your expertise in Med Surg, along with recent charge experience, will be key to your success. The assignment offers an engaging opportunity to hone your skills in a supportive team environment, all while exploring a city known for its vibrant cultural scene and friendly community. The schedule may include working 1-2 of the upcoming winter holidays, adding a sense of camaraderie and celebration to your experience.
Weather:
The weather around this time of year typically features cool to cold temperatures with crisp mornings and occasional snow, providing that classic Midwest winter experience. Expect chilly days, perfect for exploring cozy coffee shops, or enjoying outdoor winter festivities.
Fun Things To Do:
- Historic walking tour of downtown Des Moines
- Visit the Des Moines Art Center
- Day trip to the Iowa State Capitol and nearby Capitol Building Gardens
- Explore Gray's Lake and enjoy a paddleboat ride or biking
- Spend a day in nearby Ames at Reiman Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden
Job Specifics:
Location: Des Moines, IA
Shift: 12-hour nights
Duration: 13 weeks
Hours per week: 48
Applying is free. ReferHire lists openings from staffing agencies; when you are hired through our link, the agency may pay us a referral fee. It never reduces your pay. Never pay anyone for a job offer.