Operating Room Assistant

Operating Room Assistant

Position Overview :

The Operating Room Assistant (OR-A) plays a vital role in ensuring the operating room is prepared, clean, and fully equipped for surgical procedures. This position supports surgeons, nurses, and clinical staff by maintaining a sterile environment, managing surgical equipment, and assisting with the timely turnover of operating rooms. The OR-A also acts as a runner for time-sensitive clinical items such as lab samples and blood products. This is a high-impact role that directly contributes to patient safety, surgical efficiency, and positive health outcomes.

Compensation :

Starting rate for this position is commensurate with education and experience, beginning at $15.00 / hour. Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from the new hire orientation date. This is a non-exempt position.

The Perks and Benefits :

Collaborative environment : Join a skilled surgical team dedicated to delivering the highest standard of patient care.

Career advancement : Access to tuition reimbursement and internal pathways for professional development.

Meaningful work : Be a key player in the surgical process, helping ensure patient safety and successful procedures.

Lifestyle location : Based in Boone, North Carolina, in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy hiking, biking, skiing, and a vibrant local community.

Community culture : Boone is home to Appalachian State University, top-rated public schools, and has been recognized as a top place to live by Forbes, Southern Living, and Niche.

Employee wellness program – Love Your Life : Participate in wellness activities and earn incentives through screenings or online engagement.

Employee to Employee (E2E) program : Support for coworkers facing unexpected financial hardships, funded through voluntary employee contributions.

Additional perks : Discounts to regional attractions like Dollywood, Biltmore, and Tweetsie Railroad.

Key Responsibilities :

Prepare and maintain operating rooms before, during, and after surgical procedures.

Ensure all surgical instruments and equipment are clean, sterilized, and properly set up.

Serve as a runner for urgent clinical materials (e.g., lab specimens, blood products).

Maintain a sterile and safe environment in compliance with infection control protocols.

Assist with safe patient positioning and equipment movement.

Ensure efficient turnover of operating rooms between procedures.

Work collaboratively with the surgical team to support patient safety and surgical flow.

Respond quickly and accurately to emergencies in the surgical environment.

Uphold UNC Health Appalachian’s Mission, Vision, and Values through professional conduct and teamwork.

Position Requirements :

Minimum Education :

High school diploma or GED preferred.

Experience :

Previous experience in an operating room or surgical setting preferred.

Required Registration / License / Certification :

Completion of in-house orientation / training.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :

Understanding of surgical instruments, sterile techniques, and OR procedures.

Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow instructions precisely.

Strong organizational and multitasking abilities in a high-pressure environment.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with medical teams.

Knowledge of infection control procedures and commitment to safety.

Basic computer skills for documentation and communication.

Physical Demands :

Lift, push, pull, and move items up to and greater than 50 pounds.

Extended periods of walking, standing, bending, squatting, and twisting.

Manual dexterity and physical stamina to assist in patient care and equipment handling.

Visual acuity for close inspection of surgical instruments and documentation.

Working Conditions :

Regular exposure to blood-borne pathogens and medical waste.

Frequent contact with chemicals, mechanical / electrical equipment, and bodily fluids.

Irregular hours, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Continuous physical activity for 8+ hour shifts.

About UNC Health Appalachian

It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.”

About UNC Health

UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.

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