Nurse Practitioner Jobs at Community Health Centers

Find NP positions at federally qualified health centers nationwide. FQHC roles offer competitive salaries, full scope of practice, NHSC loan repayment up to $50,000 per year, and the chance to provide primary care to underserved communities.

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Why Work at an FQHC as a Nurse Practitioner

Federally qualified health centers are one of the best practice settings for nurse practitioners who want clinical autonomy and mission-driven work. Many FQHCs operate in states with full practice authority, meaning NPs can evaluate, diagnose, prescribe, and manage patients independently without physician oversight.

Loan repayment is one of the top benefits for NPs at community health centers. Through the National Health Service Corps (NHSC), full-time NPs at HPSA-qualifying FQHCs can receive up to $50,000 in loan repayment over two years, with options to extend for additional funding. Given average NP student loan balances, this benefit can eliminate debt in just a few years.

Compensation at FQHCs has become increasingly competitive as health centers recruit to meet growing patient demand. NP salaries at FQHCs typically range from $95,000 to $135,000 depending on specialty and location, with many centers also offering sign-on bonuses, relocation assistance, CME stipends, and generous PTO.

Beyond the financial benefits, NPs at FQHCs report high job satisfaction from working with diverse patient populations and addressing health disparities in their communities. You will practice the full breadth of your training in family medicine, pediatrics, women's health, behavioral health, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nurse Practitioner Jobs at FQHCs

Do I need FQHC experience to apply for NP positions?
No prior FQHC experience is required for most nurse practitioner positions at community health centers. FQHCs value clinical competence and a passion for serving underserved populations. Many centers provide onboarding and mentorship programs specifically designed for NPs new to community health settings.
How much loan repayment can NPs receive through NHSC?
Nurse practitioners working full-time at NHSC-approved sites can receive up to $50,000 in student loan repayment for an initial two-year commitment. Part-time NPs may qualify for up to $25,000. After the initial term, you can apply for continuation awards of up to $20,000 per year. Some states offer additional loan repayment programs that can be stacked with NHSC funding.
What NP specialties are most in demand at FQHCs?
Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) are the most sought-after specialty at FQHCs due to the broad primary care scope. Psychiatric Mental Health NPs (PMHNPs) are in extremely high demand as health centers expand behavioral health services. Pediatric NPs, Adult-Gerontology NPs, and Women's Health NPs are also actively recruited at many community health centers.
Do NPs have full practice authority at FQHCs?
Practice authority depends on state law, not the FQHC setting specifically. However, many FQHCs are located in states with full practice authority (FPA) for NPs, and even in restricted states, FQHCs often provide collaborative agreements that support NPs in practicing at the top of their license. Over 25 states plus DC currently grant NPs full practice authority.
What is the typical NP salary at a community health center?
Nurse practitioner salaries at FQHCs typically range from $95,000 to $135,000 per year, depending on specialty, location, and experience. Psychiatric NPs often command higher salaries due to demand. When factoring in loan repayment ($25,000-$50,000/year), sign-on bonuses, and benefits, total compensation often exceeds private practice opportunities.

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