Certified Nursing Assistant I (CNA 1) - Med-Surg

UNC Health Appalachian • Boone, NC

18d • Onsite

About The Position

UNC Health Appalachian is hiring a Certified Nursing Assistant to support patient care and comfort in an inpatient setting in Boone, North Carolina. Under the direction of licensed nurses, the CNA provides hands-on assistance that supports patient experience, safety, and well-being in a collaborative healthcare environment. The position is non-exempt and starts at $17.87 per hour, based on education and experience; shift differentials are available.

The schedule is Saturday and Sunday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Benefits for eligible employees include medical, dental, and vision coverage; a retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; career pathways; wellness incentives; employee support resources; and employee discounts. Applicable benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new-hire orientation.

UNC Health Appalachian comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and the Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. It is part of UNC Health, a state entity and affiliate of the University of North Carolina system. Employment is contingent on successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

Requirements

• High school diploma.
• Successful completion of an accredited CNA program licensed in North Carolina.
• Active Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification in the State of North Carolina.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association at the time of hire.
• Knowledge of CNA scope of practice and patient care procedures.
• Effective and courteous communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within the healthcare team.
• Strong customer service mindset and commitment to patient dignity.
• Conflict resolution skills and emotional resilience.
• Proficiency with basic computer systems and Electronic Medical Records (EMR).
• Ability to lift, position, push, pull, and transfer patients or equipment weighing 50 or more pounds.
• Manual dexterity and mobility for hands-on patient care; ability to sit, stand, and walk for prolonged periods and frequently bend, squat, twist, and turn.
• Near visual acuity for detailed patient care tasks.
• Physical stamina for long shifts and frequent patient mobilization.

Nice To Haves

• Previous CNA experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist licensed nursing staff by preparing patients, equipment, and supplies for procedures.
• Obtain, record, and report accurate patient information, including vital signs.
• Provide personal care, including feeding, bathing, shaving, dressing, repositioning, and bed-making.
• Reinforce patient and family education as directed by nursing staff or physicians.
• Monitor patient conditions and promptly report changes to licensed staff.
• Maintain compliance with organizational standards and the CNA scope of practice.
• Communicate effectively and respectfully with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
• Support a safe, compassionate, and patient-centered environment.
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and integrity in high-stress situations.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for eligible employees.
• Retirement plan with employer match.
• Paid time off.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Career Pathways Program and continuing education opportunities.
• Wellness incentives through the Love Your Life program.
• Employee-to-Employee (E2E) support program and employee assistance resources.
• Employee discounts.
• Shift differentials in addition to base pay.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED