Explore Lucrative Nursing Career Opportunities in Taft, California: A Growing Job Market Awaiting Dedicated Professionals in a Thriving Community
Nestled in the heart of Kern County, Taft, California is a hidden gem that boasts a rich history, a close-knit community, and a growing nursing job market. From the charming downtown area adorned with reminders of its oil boom past to the stunning vistas surrounding the city, Taft is where the desert meets determination. For nursing professionals, Taft offers salaries that are competitive yet modest compared to larger California cities. Currently, registered nurses in our area earn an average of $39.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $82,000 annually. This is slightly lower than the California average of around $48.00 per hour ($99,840 annually), but it's important to consider the lower cost of living here compared to bustling urban centers like Los Angeles. With the proximity to other cities such as Bakersfield and Delano, the nursing landscape is influenced by these larger markets, creating a vibrant setting for both local and travel nurses. Here in Taft, we make sure that aging populations are well cared for and that new nursing talent is welcomed.
Looking closely at the job market in Taft, we see a dynamic configuration of supply and demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a healthy need for new nurses in Kern County—approximately 1,200 new nurses will be needed over the next few years to support growing healthcare demands and population increases. Taft itself has about 300 currently practicing registered nurses, so as we move forward, we can expect to see opportunities extend especially for travel nursing and per diem nursing roles. Considering our population of roughly 7,000, the need for flexibility in staffing is certainly a rising theme. Travel nursing here tends to peak in the summer months, likely driven by increased patient volume at local hospitals, while per diem opportunities provide essential backup staffing for unpredictable demands. Facilities like Taft Healthcare Center and nearby hospitals, such as Kern Medical in Bakersfield, are some of our prominent employers who continually seek dedicated nursing professionals to join their teams. When compared to communities like Delano or Wasco, Taft holds its own in terms of job availability and community support, even if the salaries might differ slightly.
This commitment to nursing excellence is mirrored by Taft’s healthcare infrastructure, which is characterized by both a nurturing community vibe and ongoing development efforts. With a growing number of outpatient clinics and specialists entering the market, nurses have diverse career paths to choose from, particularly in specialties like emergency care and gerontology. Ongoing investments in healthcare facilities are expected as our population continues to grow and local health initiatives gain traction. Our local culture thrives on community events, outdoor activities, and a sense of unity that makes it an inviting place for healthcare professionals. The population is projected to grow steadily, enhancing the demand for nursing services and public health initiatives that aim to strengthen overall community well-being. For nurses looking to plant roots or explore new opportunities, Taft’s healthcare landscape is ripe with promise. I encourage fellow nursing professionals to explore the local job scene on NurseRecruiter, where we can connect with opportunities right here in Taft and nearby areas. Additionally, employers can utilize NurseRecruiter’s platform to post jobs and attract qualified local candidates eager to serve our cherished community.
