Operating Room Assistant

Watauga Medical Center • Boone, NC

98d • $15

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience in an operating room or surgical setting preferred.
• Completion of in-house orientation/training.
• 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.

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.

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.

What This Job Offers

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