Passed — Now What? · 5 min read · April 25, 2026
The FNP job market is strong, and most employers are legitimate. But the market also includes positions that are problematic — practices with unrealistic patient volume expectations, compensation structures that do not deliver what they promise, employment agreements with restrictive non-compete clauses, and in rare cases, practices that are operating outside the bounds of ethical or legal practice.
Red flags in the job posting include: compensation that is significantly above or below market rate without explanation; vague descriptions of the role, the patient population, or the practice setting; urgent hiring timelines that pressure you to decide quickly; and requirements that seem inconsistent with the stated role.
Compensation that is significantly above market rate is worth particular scrutiny. It may reflect a genuinely excellent position — or it may reflect high patient volume expectations, a difficult work environment, or a practice with high turnover.
"If a job offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Do the due diligence before you accept."
Red flags in the interview include: vague or evasive answers to direct questions about patient volume, productivity expectations, and support staff; unwillingness to provide a written employment agreement before you accept; pressure to accept the offer without adequate time to review the contract; and negative or dismissive comments about previous NPs in the role.
The question "why is this position open?" is one of the most revealing you can ask. A practice that has had multiple NPs in the same role in a short period is a significant red flag.
Before accepting any FNP position, complete the following due diligence: review the employment agreement with a healthcare attorney; verify the practice's reputation with your state NP association or professional network; check the practice's Medicare/Medicaid billing history (available through the CMS Open Payments database); and speak with current or former employees if possible.