Understanding What Is Per Diem Jobs and How to Maximize Your Earnings in Healthcare

The healthcare industry continues to evolve in 2025, and so do the career options available for skilled professionals. One employment model that has gained significant traction is per diem work. But what is per diem jobs exactly, and why are they becoming the go-to option for many in the healthcare field?

What Is Per Diem Jobs?

The term per diem is Latin for “per day.” In the employment world, per diem jobs refer to short-term, on-demand positions that pay daily or hourly rates. These roles typically don't come with long-term commitments or full-time benefits but offer greater flexibility and premium pay.

Healthcare facilities rely on per diem workers to fill gaps caused by staff shortages, vacations, seasonal demands, or sudden spikes in patient care needs. These jobs are particularly attractive to professionals who want:

  • Flexible work hours

  • Control over their schedule

  • A better work-life balance

  • Supplemental income

  • Experience across multiple healthcare settings

Now let's dive into the best-paying per diem healthcare roles in 2025.

Top 7 High-Paying Per Diem Jobs in Healthcare (2025)

1. Registered Nurse (RN)

Average Per Diem Rate: $45–$70/hour

Registered Nurses continue to top the list of high-paying per diem healthcare jobs. Their skills are essential in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and even schools. In 2025, demand for RNs is particularly high in critical care, surgical recovery, and telehealth units.

Why It Pays Well:

Shortage of staff, emergency coverage needs, and around-the-clock operations create premium opportunities for RNs.

2. Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Average Per Diem Rate: $75–$110/hour

Nurse Practitioners are in demand for urgent care clinics, family practices, and home health visits. As more states allow NPs to operate independently, per diem roles have skyrocketed in availability and pay.

Why It Pays Well:

Advanced training and independent decision-making make NPs valuable, especially in underserved or rural areas.

3. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Average Per Diem Rate: $120–$180/hour

CRNAs are among the highest-paid healthcare professionals—even in full-time roles. Per diem CRNAs step in during surgical cases, outpatient procedures, or for vacation coverage, often earning premium hourly rates.

Why It Pays Well:

Specialized skills in anesthesia and a national shortage of CRNAs drive wages upward.

4. Radiologic Technologist

Average Per Diem Rate: $35–$55/hour

From MRIs to X-rays, radiologic techs are essential for diagnostics. Per diem roles in this field are ideal for filling gaps in imaging departments or handling off-hours and weekend shifts.

Why It Pays Well:

High demand for diagnostic services and minimal supply of qualified personnel in rural areas.

5. Occupational Therapist (OT)

Average Per Diem Rate: $50–$75/hour

OTs help patients regain skills for daily living after injury or illness. They're needed in rehab centers, hospitals, and home health settings. Per diem OTs benefit from flexible caseloads and higher hourly pay.

Why It Pays Well:

Therapists with pediatric or geriatric specialization are especially sought-after.

6. Physical Therapist (PT)

Average Per Diem Rate: $50–$85/hour

Physical Therapists in per diem roles work across multiple clinics or long-term care facilities. With the aging population and focus on recovery and mobility, demand is consistent and growing.

Why It Pays Well:

PTs with experience in neuro rehab, sports medicine, or orthopedic recovery are top earners.

7. Respiratory Therapist

Average Per Diem Rate: $40–$65/hour

Respiratory Therapists are crucial for patients with chronic breathing disorders, post-operative care, and ventilator support. In per diem roles, they often cover night or weekend shifts when staff is limited.

Why It Pays Well:

Respiratory issues are on the rise, especially in post-COVID care settings, creating urgent staffing needs.

Benefits of Per Diem Healthcare Jobs

  • Flexibility: Work when and where you want

  • Higher Pay Rates: Often more than full-time staff

  • Work-Life Balance: More time for family or personal growth

  • Skill Expansion: Gain experience in diverse clinical settings

  • Quick Entry: Perfect for recent graduates or those re-entering the workforce

Is a Per Diem Job Right for You?

If you're someone who thrives on variety, enjoys flexible scheduling, or is looking for high-paying part-time work in healthcare, per diem jobs can be a game-changer. However, they aren't for everyone. These roles may lack benefits such as health insurance or paid time off and often require the ability to adapt quickly to new environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What does “per diem” mean in a healthcare job?

A. “Per diem” means “per day.” In healthcare, it refers to flexible, on-call, or short-term positions where professionals are paid daily or hourly, often at a higher rate than full-time staff.

Q. Do per diem jobs offer benefits?

A. Usually, per diem roles don't include traditional benefits like health insurance or retirement plans. However, some staffing agencies may offer limited benefits depending on hours worked.

Q. Can I turn a per diem job into a full-time position?

A. Yes! Many healthcare professionals start per diem and transition into full-time roles once they've proven their skills and fit within a team.

Q. Are per diem jobs good for new graduates?

A. Absolutely. Per diem jobs provide diverse experience, exposure to various clinical environments, and the chance to build professional networks.

Q. How do I find per diem jobs in my area?

A. Working with a trusted healthcare staffing agency like EmpowerCare is the fastest and most reliable way to discover high-paying, flexible per diem opportunities near you.

Ready to Find the Right Per Diem Job?

Whether you're a nurse, therapist, technician, or physician assistant, per diem jobs can unlock a world of flexibility and earning potential. But finding the right opportunity means working with a partner who truly understands healthcare staffing.

Partner with EmpowerCare Today

At EmpowerCare, we connect dedicated professionals with top-tier healthcare facilities that value quality and compassion. If you're looking for high-paying per diem jobs or need qualified talent, we're your trusted ally in enhancing patient care.

Explore Opportunities at EmpowerCare – Empower your career. Empower patient care.