Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Gillette, WY

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Nursing Assistants (CNAs) considering a move to Gillette, Wyoming.

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The Salary Picture: Where Gillette Stands

As a CNA in Gillette, you're entering a market with a distinct local character. The median salary for a Nursing Assistant in Gillette is $35,438/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.04/hour. It's crucial to understand how this compares to the national landscape. The national average for CNAs sits at $35,760/year, meaning Gillette's median is just slightly below the U.S. norm. However, the local job market is tight, with only 66 positions available in the metro area. This limited supply can be a double-edged sword: it means competition for desirable shifts and employers, but it also gives seasoned CNAs leverage. The 10-year job growth projection for the region is 4%, which is modest, suggesting a stable but not rapidly expanding market.

Your earning potential in Gillette will heavily depend on your experience. The local healthcare system, primarily driven by Campbell County Health, has a structured pay scale. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes
Entry-Level	$29,000 - $32,000	Typically starting in long-term care or as a new hospital hire. Often works nights or weekends.
Mid-Level (2-5 yrs)	$34,000 - $38,000	This is near the local median. You'll have shift differentials and possibly weekend incentives.
Senior (5-10 yrs)	$38,500 - $42,000	At this stage, you're likely a CNA II or hold a specialty certification (e.g., hospice, phlebotomy).
Expert/Specialized	$42,000+	This is the top tier, often for CNAs in specialized units (like ICU or dialysis) or those with lead roles in long-term care.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base hourly rate. The real difference in take-home pay comes from shift differentials. Night and weekend shifts at Campbell County Memorial Hospital can add $2.00-$3.00 per hour, which can boost your annual income by several thousand dollars.

Comparison to Other WY Cities

Gillette sits in a middle ground within Wyoming. It's not as high-paying as the capital, Cheyenne, or the tourism hub of Jackson, but it offers a better cost-of-living balance. Here's a quick snapshot:

City	Median Salary	Key Employers
Gillette	$35,438	Campbell County Health, local long-term care facilities
Cheyenne	~$37,500	Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, VA Medical Center
Casper	~$36,800	Wyoming Medical Center, Mountain Plaza Assisted Living
Jackson	~$39,000	St. John's Health, luxury senior living communities (high cost of living)
Laramie	~$35,000	Ivinson Memorial Hospital, UW Student Health

Gillette's advantage is its stable, community-focused healthcare employers and a lower cost of living compared to Jackson or Cheyenne.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your budget. With a median salary of $35,438/year, your monthly gross pay is about $2,953. After federal taxes (estimating a single filer with one allowance), state taxes (Wyoming has no state income tax), and FICA (7.65%), your take-home pay will be roughly $2,300 - $2,400 per month. This is a significant advantage—no state income tax means more money in your pocket.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Gillette is $921/month. This represents about 38-40% of your monthly take-home pay, which is on the higher side of the recommended 30% housing cost guideline. However, it's manageable, especially if you consider splitting costs with a roommate or opting for a studio apartment, which can be found for $750-$850/month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a CNA in Gillette (Gross: ~$2,953, Take-Home: ~$2,350)

• Rent (1BR): $921
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet): $200
• Groceries: $300
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: $350 (Public transport is limited; a car is a necessity)
• Health Insurance (if not fully covered by employer): $150
• Miscellaneous/Personal/Savings: $429

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, it's challenging but possible, especially with long-term planning. The median home price in Gillette is around $250,000-$280,000. With a $35,438 salary, you'd likely need to wait until you're in a mid-to-senior level role ($38,000+) and have a solid down payment (at least 3.5% for an FHA loan). The property taxes in Campbell County are relatively low compared to other states, which helps. However, with the current interest rates, your monthly mortgage payment would be close to your current rent, but you'd also have maintenance and repair costs. It's a goal to work towards after establishing yourself and potentially increasing your dual-income household.

Where the Jobs Are: Gillette's Major Employers

The Gillette job market for CNAs is dominated by a few key healthcare organizations. Knowing these employers is critical for your job search.

1. Campbell County Health (CCH): This is the primary employer in the region. It includes:

   • Campbell County Memorial Hospital (CCMH): The main acute care facility. CNAs here work in med-surg, swing beds, and sometimes in the ER or ICU (with additional training). Hiring is steady but competitive. They value internal referrals, so networking is key.
   • The Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center: A 112-bed skilled nursing facility. This is a major source of CNA jobs. They have a high demand for night and weekend staff. Hiring Trend: They often host career fairs and have a direct pipeline from local CNA training programs.
   • Campbell County Medical Group: Clinics and specialty offices may hire CNAs for patient intake and basic vitals, though these roles are fewer.

2. MountainView Assisted Living & Memory Care: A private, for-profit facility. It offers a different pace than a hospital. The focus is on long-term resident care. Insider Tip: They often have better staff-to-resident ratios than large nursing homes, which can lead to a less stressful work environment.

3. West Hills Village Senior Living: Another significant senior living complex. They offer independent living, assisted living, and memory care. CNAs here work primarily in the assisted living and memory care units.

4. The VA Clinic (Gillette Community-Based Outpatient Clinic): While smaller, this federal facility offers stable, well-compensated positions. Veterans Affairs jobs come with excellent benefits and a structured career ladder. Competition is fierce, but the turnover is low.

5. Private Home Health Agencies: Companies like Banner Health at Home or Laramie County Home Health (serving the region) hire CNAs for in-home care. This offers flexibility but less job security and typically no benefits. It's a great side gig but can be challenging as a primary income source.

Hiring Trend: The overall trend is stable. With a 4% growth rate, new openings appear as people retire or move. The biggest hiring surges are in the spring and fall. Pro-Tip: Apply directly on the Campbell County Health careers page. They post jobs internally first. If you're already in the area, walking into the Human Resources office with a resume can make a huge difference.

Getting Licensed in Wyoming

Wyoming's licensing process is straightforward but has specific requirements. You must be certified through the Wyoming Nursing Assistant Registry (WBNAR).

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete a minimum of 125 hours of training, which includes both classroom and clinical instruction. In Gillette, the primary provider is Gillette College. Their program is accredited and well-regarded by local employers. The total cost for the program is approximately $800 - $1,200, which often includes your textbook and testing fees.

2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the state Competency Evaluation. This consists of a written (or oral) exam and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is around $150.

3. Apply for Certification: Once you pass, you apply for certification through the Wyoming Board of Nursing. The initial certification fee is $50.

Total Estimated Cost & Timeline:

• Cost: $1,000 - $1,500 (program + exam + application)
• Timeline: The full-time program at Gillette College typically takes 4-6 weeks. Part-time options may be available. From start to holding your certificate in hand, plan for 2-3 months.

Insider Tip: Many local employers, including CCH, will hire you as a "CNA in training" if you are enrolled in an approved program. This allows you to work (and earn) while you complete your clinical hours, which are often fulfilled at their own facilities. Inquire about these opportunities when you apply for training.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNAs)

Living close to your workplace is a major quality-of-life factor, especially with Wyoming's weather. Gillette is a sprawling city, but key areas stand out.

1. Downtown / Historic District: This area is walkable and has a growing number of renovated apartments and older homes. It's close to the Campbell County Health campus (about a 5-10 minute drive). Rent for a 1BR here averages $900 - $1,000/month. Best for: CNAs who want a short commute and enjoy a small-town vibe with local coffee shops and restaurants.

2. East Side (near the Hospital): This is a popular neighborhood for healthcare workers due to its proximity to the hospital and clinics. It's primarily residential with a mix of older homes, apartments, and townhouses. Commutes are under 10 minutes. Rent is comparable to downtown, around $850 - $950/month. Best for: Those prioritizing a minimal commute and a quiet, family-friendly environment.

3. West Side (near MountainView Assisted Living): This area is more suburban and offers newer apartment complexes and single-family homes. It's slightly farther from the main hospital but very close to MountainView and West Hills Village. Rent can be slightly lower, with 1BR apartments available for $800 - $900/month. Best for: CNAs working in senior living facilities on the west side or those who prefer a newer, more suburban feel.

4. South Gillette / Koltisky Road Area: This is a fast-growing area with new construction and larger floor plans. It's about a 15-minute drive to the hospital. It's ideal if you want more space for your money and don't mind a slightly longer commute. Rent for a 1BR is similar to other areas, $850 - $950/month, but you might find a nicer, newer unit. Best for: Those who value modern amenities and are willing to commute.

Commute Note: Traffic in Gillette is generally light, so even living on the opposite side of town rarely means a drive longer than 20 minutes. The biggest factor is winter weather, which can add time to your commute.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A CNA license in Gillette is a solid foundation, but the "long game" involves specialization and advancement. The modest 4% job growth means you must be strategic.

• Specialty Certifications & Premiums: While not always offering direct salary premiums, certain skills make you invaluable and more likely to be hired for higher-paying roles.

  • Phlebotomy: Many CNAs at CCH get trained to draw blood. This skill is in high demand.
  • ECG/EKG Technician: Learning to perform 12-lead EKGs can open doors in cardiology clinics and hospital units.
  • Hospice & Palliative Care: Specialized training in end-of-life care is sought after in long-term care and home health.
  • CNA II: At CCH, you can advance to a CNA II role, which involves more complex patient care and a pay bump.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Stay in CNA Role, Specialize: Become the go-to CNA for a specific unit (e.g., ICU, dialysis, rehab). This leads to job security and higher pay within your scope.
  2. Bridge to LPN/RN: This is the most common path for significant advancement. Gillette College offers excellent LPN and RN programs. Many local employers have tuition reimbursement programs. With an LPN, your salary jumps to $45,000 - $55,000 in Gillette. As an RN, you can earn $65,000 - $80,000+.
  3. Move into Administration: With experience, you could move into roles like a unit secretary, patient care coordinator, or even a health information management position.

10-Year Outlook: The outlook is stable. The demand for healthcare in this aging community is constant. While new hospital beds aren't being added rapidly, the need for replacement staff is guaranteed. Your best bet for growth is to upskill, gain experience at CCH, and consider the LPN/RN bridge for long-term financial growth.

The Verdict: Is Gillette Right for You?

Pros	Cons
No State Income Tax – A direct boost to your take-home pay.	Limited Housing Market – Fewer options for rent and purchase; competition can be high.
Low Cost of Living – Your salary goes further here than in many other states (Index: 97.0).	Isolation & Distance – It's a 4-hour drive to Denver or Rapid City; limited shopping/dining options.
Strong, Stable Employers – CCH is a dominant, community-focused employer.	Weather – Harsh, long winters with significant snow and wind.
Short Commutes – Easy to get to work, no traffic jams.	Modest Career Growth – The 4% growth rate means you must be proactive about advancement.
Outdoor Recreation – Gateway to the Black Hills, hunting, fishing, and camping.	Limited CNA Job Diversity – Most jobs are with a few major employers; few niche options.

Final Recommendation:
Gillette is an excellent choice for a CNA who values stability, a low cost of living, and outdoor access. It's ideal for someone who is self-motivated, wants to avoid big-city stress and traffic, and is content with a community-focused healthcare career. If you are a newly certified CNA looking for a supportive environment to gain strong foundational experience, Gillette is a great starting point. However, if you are a CNA seeking rapid career advancement, a wide variety of employers, or a vibrant urban culture, you may find the market limiting. Your long-term success in Gillette hinges on embracing the community, getting in with Campbell County Health, and being open to further education to climb the career ladder.

FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market for CNAs in Gillette?
The market is moderately competitive. With only 66 jobs in the metro area, you can't be passive. However, the high demand for night/weekend shifts and the stable employment at CCH mean that qualified, certified CNAs who are flexible with scheduling will find work. Building a relationship with a hiring manager during your clinicals is your biggest advantage.

2. Is it necessary to have my own vehicle?
Absolutely. Public transportation is extremely limited, and the city is spread out. Winters can make walking or biking impossible. A reliable vehicle is a non-negotiable necessity for getting to work and accessing services.

3. What are the typical shift options for a CNA?
Most full-time positions are 12-hour shifts (7 AM - 7 PM or 7 PM - 7 AM), often working three days per week. Part-time and weekend-only positions are also common, especially in long-term care. Be prepared to work nights, weekends, and holidays, particularly in your first year.

4. How does the cost of living really feel on a CNA salary?
While the numbers suggest it's manageable (rent at 38% of take-home), it requires a budget. You won't have much disposable income after essentials, especially with car costs and higher winter heating bills. Sharing an apartment or living in a studio can free up significant cash. The lack of state income tax is a major buffer.

5. Can I get a job before I'm fully licensed?
Yes. Many local employers hire "CNA Trainees" or "CNAs in training." You can work in a non-clinical or limited capacity (like a resident aide) while you complete your required clinical hours. This is a fantastic way to get your foot in the door and start earning immediately. Always ask about these opportunities when applying for CNA programs in Gillette.