CDCR · Delano, CA
North Kern State Prison (NKSP) in Delano serves as a Northern California reception center, processing newly committed inmates from across the region. Opened in 1993 with capacity for 3,500 inmates, NKSP also includes Level III housing. Located adjacent to Kern Valley State Prison (KVSP), the Delano area has the highest concentration of CDCR facilities in Kern County.
Quick Answer
Travel nurses at North Kern State Prison earn $1,900–$3,200 per week. RN, LVN, CNA positions available. Located in Delano, CA — 1 hr 15 min south from Fresno.
Location
Delano, CA
Kern County
Security Level
Reception Center / Level III
System
CDCR
Capacity
3,500 beds
Opened
1993
Nearest Major City
Fresno
1 hr 15 min south
High-volume intake health screenings as a reception center, plus general correctional nursing for the Level III housing units. Reception centers are excellent for nurses who like fast-paced clinical assessments.
12-hour shifts. Day shifts handle peak intake; night shifts focus on clinical management.
Delano and Bakersfield (45 min south) offer extremely low housing costs ($900–$1,400/month furnished).
NKSP processes newly committed inmates from Northern California — intake medical assessments, classification, vaccinations, baseline labs. High-volume nursing work.
Yes — North Kern State Prison and Kern Valley State Prison are adjacent in Delano. Many travel nurses work both facilities back-to-back.
Range: $1,900–$3,200/week depending on role and shift
Roles Available
RN, LVN, CNA
Contract Length
13 weeks
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