With advice from Nursing and Allied Health Recruitment Supervisor Tiffany R.
Spring is one of the most underrated times to take a travel assignment, and for allied health professionals, it can be a strategic choice that sets the tone for the rest of the year. From increased job availability to better positioning for future contracts, spring offers unique advantages that many travelers overlook.
We spoke with Tiffany R., Ventura MedStaff’s Nursing and Allied Health Recruitment Supervisor, to break down where the opportunities are and how you can make the most of a spring assignment below!
Where Demand Is Highest This Spring
If you’re looking to maximize your options, location flexibility is key.
Tiffany shared, “Right now, we’re seeing the highest need in the Pacific Northwest, the Northeast, and the Upper Midwest – so places like the Dakotas, Montana, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.” You’ll be able to find a good mix of facilities in these areas and a good range of specialties.
While some destinations ebb and flow with the seasons, others remain consistent. Tiffany emphasized, “More rural and critical care facilities tend to have steady needs because they heavily rely on travelers.” These facilities often face ongoing staffing shortages, making them a reliable option for travelers seeking consistent work. At Ventura MedStaff, we often encourage allied health travelers to consider these hidden gems, not only for job stability, but also for the chance to gain diverse, hands-on experience that can strengthen your resume.
The Unique Advantages of a Spring Assignment
Spring assignments come with several benefits that can give you a competitive edge throughout the year. “There’s less competition than peak seasons like fall and winter. A lot of people take time off for summer, so trying to get back in after July can be challenging with so many people wanting to return to travel,” Tiffany noted.
In other words, spring is your opportunity to get ahead before the market becomes more saturated!
She added, “If you work spring into summer, you have a better chance of finding things. And even if you have a vacation planned, a lot of facilities will give a week off if you’re willing to add it onto the end; it never hurts to ask.”
From a strategic standpoint, spring is a great launching point to get you to some of your dream locations and assignments. Starting an assignment now can position you for extensions or new opportunities heading into summer and fall, often before other travelers even begin their search.
And beyond career benefits, there’s a lifestyle perk too. “It’s a prime time for outdoor activities so you can explore and be more active after winter,” Tiffany emphasized.
How to Make the Most of Your Assignment
To truly maximize your spring assignment, it’s important to be intentional, both in your career and your personal experience.
Professionally
Tiffany advised, “Being flexible on location and going where the demand is will give you a lot more options.” Flexibility opens doors, not just to more jobs, but to better pay packages and unique experiences. “Consider states that have quicker licensing to expand your experience. It always helps to talk with a recruiter to find out more,” Tiffany said.
Personally
Beyond just the career benefits, you want to make sure you are enjoying the perks of travel healthcare to the fullest too! “Explore new locations and get outdoors to reset yourself after winter,” Tiffany recommended. Spring offers the perfect opportunity to recharge, especially after a long winter season. She also encouraged connection within the travel community: “Network with other travelers and learn about their favorite locations to visit.”
We hear all the time that some of the best assignments come from recommendations of other travelers!
Why Spring Is a Smart Move
If you’re on the fence about when to start your next assignment, Tiffany put it simply:
“Spring is one of the smartest times to jump into travel, not because it’s the flashiest, but because it sets you up.” She continued, “You’ll have less competition, you’ll get solid experience without chaos, and you’re positioning yourself for better opportunities heading into summer and fall.”
And perhaps most importantly, “If you’re waiting for the ‘perfect’ assignment or timing, you’ll miss momentum. Spring is about getting in, getting experience, and setting yourself up to win the rest of the year.”
Travel with Ventura MedStaff
At Ventura MedStaff, we’re here to help you take advantage of every opportunity, especially during a season that can shape the rest of your year. Our team is ready to support you every step of the way. Find a recruiter today to start your spring assignment.
