Are you looking for a new locum tenens contract? If so, here are five reasons why should consider working as a locum tenens in New Mexico!
1. There are competitive pay rates for locum tenens in New Mexico
The first reason – the pay. The average pay rate for locum tenens in New Mexico is $193,848, according to ZipRecruiter. The highest potential pay, which makes up 7% of locum tenens jobs, is $346,915. The lowest range reported is around $30,000, but that is only 4% of jobs.
2. The cost of living is below the national average
The second reason is that the cost of living in New Mexico is slightly below the average cost of living in the United States. However, utility costs are slightly higher. Regardless, your pay will go further in a state like New Mexico. It’s always a good idea to consider the cost of living in a state when you are negotiating your locum tenens salary and contract.
3. You can help address some unique health needs
Although New Mexico has better health outcomes when it comes to things like heart disease and cancer, compared to the rest of the United States, unintentional injury and death is something the state struggles with. For example, drug overdose has lowered life expectancy rates in the United States. New Mexico is hit harder than the national average when it comes to that, as well as motor vehicle injuries and infant mortality.
4. Job availability is steady, especially in specific specialties
With that said, there are currently many niche jobs available for locum tenens in New Mexico. Some popular specialties we see listed on LocumJobsOnline.com include locum tenens jobs in psychiatry, emergency medicine, and pediatrics. If you work in any of these specialties, you should check out the available jobs in New Mexico.
5. New Mexico has a variety of enjoyable things to do there
Not only is there great pay, low cost of living, and a demand for specific specialties, New Mexico has plenty of unique things for you to do while you’re on contract there. This beautiful, western state has a lot of unusual things you can do or see there that are different than anywhere else. Here’s a breakdown of some of my favorites.
Attractions
- Bisiti Badlands
There are various badlands across the United States, and each of them has its own unique twist. The badlands in New Mexico are known for alien-like formations and breathtaking views. Each time I visit the badlands, whether it be in New Mexico, Arizona, or South Dakota, the rocks take on a different mood depending on how the light hits them.
- White Sands National Park
This is another must-see natural attraction in New Mexico. Just seeing this sprawled out desert of white sand is one thing, but to truly experience it you should get out and hike – and if you are feeling adventurous enough, purchase a sled and take a little ride through the sand dunes.
- House of Eternal Return
Do we have any art fans and horror intrigues out there? The House of Eternal Return is a place where art meets mystery. Built in an abandoned bowling alley, it is a 20,000 square foot art installation. The scene – a full-size reproduction of a two-story Victorian house that you can explore. The mystery? What happened to the family that once lived inside?
Food
Every region has a specific food it is known for. Here are the top three things you should try while working in New Mexico.
- Pueblo bread
Pueblo bread comes in all different shapes and sizes, and it is a staple Native American dish in this area. The recipe – wheat flour, butter or lard, water, and a pinch of salt. Then, you knead it and leave it to rise all night, eventually baking it in squat outdoor adobe ovens.
- Blue corn mush
Anything with the word mush doesn’t sound very good. However, in this case it’s a tasty tradition that also has a lot of health benefits. The mush is thickened blue corn meal, water, and juniper ash on the stove, and strengthens your bones.
- New Mexican Sundae
Ok I’m almost done talking about food, for those of you who are getting hungry. Lastly, make sure you visit Caliche’s Frozen Custard in Las Cruces, New Mexico and order the New Mexican Sundae. It is vanilla frozen custard topped in a green chili topping, similar in texture to a strawberry sauce, and then topped with salted pecans.
Events
Lastly, there are a few events you should definitely check out, depending on the time of year you are visiting. Be sure to check out this list of festivals and fairs that take place in New Mexico!
Apply here to become a locum tenens in New Mexico!
