CDCR · Tehachapi, CA
California Correctional Institution (CCI) in Tehachapi is an all-mission CDCR facility — meaning it houses inmates across all four security levels (I through IV). Located in Kern County in the Tehachapi Mountains, CCI is one of the older facilities in the system (originally established in 1933 as a women's facility, converted to men's in 1954). It has consistent travel nursing demand across multiple disciplines including RN, LVN, LPT, and behavioral health roles.
Quick Answer
Travel nurses at California Correctional Institution earn $1,800–$3,200 per week. RN, LVN, CNA, LPT, Behavioral Health positions available. Located in Tehachapi, CA — 2 hr north from Los Angeles.
Location
Tehachapi, CA
Kern County
Security Level
Levels I, II, III, IV (all-mission)
System
CDCR
Capacity
5,500 beds
Opened
1933
Nearest Major City
Los Angeles
2 hr north
Multi-level correctional nursing — chronic care, urgent care, mental health support, intake screenings, medication administration. CCI's all-mission status means nurses see varied patient populations.
12-hour shifts (day or night). Some 8-hour clinical positions for specialty roles.
Tehachapi has very low housing costs ($900–$1,300/month furnished). Bakersfield (45 min south) offers more amenities. Some travelers commute from the Antelope Valley (1 hr south).
CCI Tehachapi houses inmates across all four CDCR security levels (I through IV) — minimum to maximum security. This gives nurses exposure to a varied patient population in one facility.
CCI Tehachapi is about 35 miles east of Bakersfield in the Tehachapi Mountains — approximately a 45-minute drive via Highway 58.
Yes — CCI has consistent demand for Licensed Psychiatric Technicians (LPTs), a California-specific role that supports correctional mental health programs.
Range: $1,800–$3,200/week depending on role and shift
Roles Available
RN, LVN, CNA, LPT, Behavioral Health
Contract Length
13 weeks
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