How to Become an ICU Nurse in 3 Steps!

Struggling to land your first ICU job—and feeling like it’s holding you back from your CRNA goals? You’re not alone. 

Whether you’re getting radio silence after applications, unsure if your resume is strong enough, or wondering if starting on a step-down unit will even count, this post is for you. 

Jenny breaks down practical, real-world advice for new grads and early-career nurses who are having trouble getting that necessary ICU job. 

You’ll learn how to get your foot in the door, why step-down units are a smart starting point, and how to use tools like the CSPA Job Board and TeachRN resume support to boost your chances of landing that critical first ICU role. 

Plus– Learn the BEST way to get ICU experience sooner & faster with my bonus tip below!

If CRNA school is your dream, this is your next step. Let’s dive in!

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Having Trouble Getting an ICU Job?

If you’re feeling stuck trying to land your first ICU job, I want you to know—you’re not alone. 

Whether you’re fresh out of nursing school or trying to transition from a different unit, that first critical care position can feel just out of reach. I hear this all the time from students in the CRNA School Prep Academy community.

The good news? There are real, practical steps you can take to get moving in the right direction—and I’m here to walk you through them.

Oh—and before we dive in, make sure you’ve checked out the CSPA Job Board. 

We’ve pulled together ICU nurse openings from around the country, many of which are great fits for future CRNA applicants like you. If you’re not seeing the right opportunity in your area, keep checking—we update it regularly with new listings and early-career ICU roles.

Now, let’s talk strategy.

Step One: Are You Getting Interviews?

Let’s start with the basics. If you’re sending out applications but not hearing back, it might be time to tweak your approach. Sometimes it’s not that you’re not qualified—it’s that your application isn’t catching the hiring manager’s eye.

Ask yourself:

• Are you applying to ICU-specific residencies or new grad training programs?
• Is your resume tailored to highlight clinical experience and your interest in critical care?
• Have you networked with anyone inside the hospital you’re applying to?

Just like CRNA school, ICU hiring can be competitive. But with the right tools (and support), you can absolutely get your foot in the door.

Did you know? We have courses to help you prepare for your ICU Job Interview inside CSPA. You can also book a mock interview on the TeachRN platform! 

How to Become an ICU Nurse: Tailor your resume to highlight clinical experience and your interest in critical care

Step Two: Is Your Resume Working For You?

Your resume is one of your most powerful tools—and if it’s outdated, too generic, or missing key details, it could be costing you interviews. ICU managers are looking for signs that you understand the demands of critical care and that you’re serious about growing into the role.

If you’re not sure how your resume stacks up, I highly recommend getting a second set of eyes on it. You can connect with experienced ICU nurses through TeachRN.com to get a detailed resume review that helps your strengths shine through.

Step Three: Starting on a Step-Down Unit is Totally OK!

Here’s the truth: not everyone walks straight into an ICU job after graduation—and that’s completely okay. If you weren’t able to get into a new grad ICU residency, consider starting on a step-down unit. It’s a great place to build strong foundational skills, learn to manage more complex patients, and get your feet under you.

After about six months, many nurses successfully apply internally to the ICU—especially if you’ve been intentional about learning and building relationships along the way.

It’s not a “less than” path. It’s a stepping stone.

BONUS TIP! Get Into the ICU Before You Graduate

One of the best ways to position yourself for an ICU job right out of school is by working as a nurse’s aide or tech in the ICU while you’re still in nursing school. 

You’ll become a familiar face on the unit, learn the flow, and most importantly—you’ll already have a head start when that new grad position opens up, meaning you can start acquiring the ICU experience required for CRNA school right away!

So if you’re still finishing school, start looking now. Even a part-time or PRN position can make a big impact when you apply later.

Use Our Network

Sometimes, the best way to land a job isn’t through an application—it’s through a connection. If you’re a CSPA student or a member of ICU Dreaming About Anesthesia, our Free Community on the Circle App–remember: you have access to a built-in network of ICU nurses and CRNA mentors all over the country!

Reach out inside the community platform. Ask if anyone works at a hospital you’re interested in.

Even a simple post like, “Hey, I’m trying to get into the ICU at [X hospital]—any advice?” can open doors or lead to a referral.

Inside connections matter more than you think. And if you haven’t shadowed a CRNA (yet!), it’s a great place to find connections for that, too. 

Be Willing to Explore New Locations

If you’ve been applying locally with no luck, it might be time to broaden your search. Many hospitals across the country are open to hiring passionate, motivated new grads—they just might not be right in your backyard.

Keep an open mind and use the CSPA Job Board to explore options in different cities or states. This might mean stepping outside your comfort zone, but if it helps you land that all-important ICU role, it’s worth considering.

You can always move back later with top-notch experience under your belt.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Getting your first ICU job can feel like the hardest part of the journey—but with the right mindset, resources, and support, you can get there.

It might take persistence. It might take a few pivots. But you’re not starting from scratch—you’re starting with purpose.

Lean into your network. Polish your resume. Stay open to the opportunities that might not look perfect on paper but could lead you exactly where you need to go. And don’t forget—we’re here to help every step of the way.

Start browsing CRNA-track ICU jobs now on the CSPA Job Board, or head to TeachRN.com to get support with your resume and next steps.

You’re not behind. You’re on your way. 

Want more insights? Sign up for my FREE LIVE Webinar “Stand Out & Get In” to learn everything you need to know about getting into CRNA school. 

We’ll see you at the next event! 

Until then, be sure to keep in touch with us on social- you can find us @crnaschoolprepacademy on your favorite platforms. 

 Cheers to your future, CRNA!

-Jenny Finnell, MSN, CRNA
Founder and CEO of CRNA School Prep Academy

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