As a current senior in nursing school, how/when should I contact hospitals for potential jobs? I am looking to work in a specific state but I don't feel like Indeed (and other similar websites) are the best places to find jobs for a soon-to-be nurse.

I would contact the hospitals recruitment office

Work as an aide in a hospital until you recieve your license. The head nurse and Charge nurse will watch your judgement and how you are with your patient. Help the aides before and after you are licensed they are great teachers for lifting a patient, calming patient's down. You will get a good reputation so if you start in Med Surgit would be a matter of time and hopefully you will move to Post Partum. Good luck

Check if places have an external nursing program over the summer . There no time like the present to start looking. Sometimes it’s just a matter of being / applying at the right time / place as well as if places are willing to train you or not without experience. But again it’s hard to get experience unless someone takes an interest in you. Sometimes u can call Human Resources and ask. Cont to be diligent of your search. Look for places that are giving bonuses if you agree to stay for a certain amt of time in order to get the bonuses. Good luck in your search

Most hospitals would require for you to have your license in hand. I would focus on passing boards first. Try making connections while in clinical rotations with managers and directors. Tell them you Intend to apply after graduation to their unit and ask best ways to apply and get a job there… many will remember you. Best way to apply is directly through hospital website or by going to job fairs in person. As a new nurse take advantage of any nursing residency program offered by hospitals in your area.