Graduate Registered Nurse Residency Program

Nurse Residency Program

The Trinity Health Of New England Nurse Residency Program is a 12-month transition-to-practice program for newly licensed Registered Nurses and RNs with less than 12 months of clinical experience. Using the Vizient/AACN Nurse Residency Program framework, the program supports the development of clinical judgment, confidence, leadership, and evidence-based nursing practice. Participation in the Nurse Residency Program is mandatory for all eligible nurses and is a condition of employment.

Nurse Residents attend monthly seminars while completing a specialty-based clinical orientation with support from experienced preceptors and educators.

What You Will Do

• Transition from graduate nurse to professional RN through a structured 12-month Nurse Residency Program.
• Provide safe, evidence-based, people-centered patient care.
• Participate in monthly residency seminars and complete required program activities.
• Learn alongside experienced preceptors, educators, and nurse leaders.
• Complete an Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) project and professional development activities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program with an Associate's Degree in Nursing or higher.
• Less than 12 months of RN clinical experience at the time of hire.
• Connecticut RN licensure is not required to apply; however, candidates must obtain an active Connecticut RN license prior to employment start date.
• Resume required. Candidates are encouraged to highlight clinical rotations, senior practicum, capstone, internship, nurse extern experiences, and relevant healthcare employment, as these experiences may be considered when evaluating department and specialty opportunities.

Position Highlights and Benefits

• Full-Time employment required.
• 12-month paid Nurse Residency Program utilizing the Vizient/AACN Nurse Residency Program framework.
• Monthly residency seminars are conducted during paid work hours.
• Structured specialty orientation with preceptor and educator support.
• Completion of an Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) project and program requirements, including attendance and surveys.
• Opportunities available across Saint Mary's Hospital based on organizational needs and specialty availability.
• Most available opportunities are on the NIGHT SHIFT; day shift opportunities may be available on a case-by-case basis based on department needs and availability.

Compensation

• Hourly Position
• Base pay is determined through the Trinity Health Of New England RN Step Program.
• Current hiring range: $36.15 - $59.95 per hour
• Applicable differentials may be available based on position, shift, and department.

Please note:

• RN Step placement is based on licensed RN experience only.
• Previous healthcare experience may support onboarding and orientation planning, but is not considered when determining RN Step Program placement.

Important Application Information

• Available New Graduate Nurse placements are limited.
• Not all posted Staff RN vacancies are available to New Graduate Nurse candidates.
• All candidates must apply through the Graduate Nurse Residency posting for consideration.
• Qualified applicants will participate in a recruitment screening call to review eligibility, specialty interests, program expectations, and available opportunities.
• During the recruitment process, candidates will discuss department, specialty, and location preferences with a recruiter.
• Department, specialty, and shift opportunities are based on organizational needs, hiring leader selection, candidate qualifications, and position availability.

Ministry/Facility Information

Saint Mary's Hospital, operating since 1909, is a Catholic, not-for-profit, community teaching hospital dedicated to serving patients in Waterbury, CT, and the surrounding communities. What sets us apart is evident from the moment you walk through our doors: the genuine warmth and attentiveness of our physicians and nurses, the pristine condition of our facilities, and the way we strive to make patients and their families feel cared for, akin to being a cherished member of our own family.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.