1

Appalachian Healthcare Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Patient Observation Specialist

Boone, NC · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Entry point into healthcare with advancement opportunities through UNC Health Appalachian's Career Pathways Program * Impactful Work: Directly contribute to patient safety and positive outcomes ...

Showing results 21-40

Appalachian Healthcare information

See salary details

$11K

$98K

$160.5K

How much do appalachian healthcare jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for appalachian healthcare in the United States is $97,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22,000.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Appalachian Healthcare vs Appalachian Nurse?

AspectAppalachian HealthcareAppalachian Nurse
CertificationsVaries by role, often includes healthcare-related licensesRN license, state-specific nursing certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health settings in AppalachiaHospitals, clinics, healthcare facilities in Appalachia
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, hospitals, clinics in Appalachian regionsHospitals, clinics, healthcare organizations in Appalachia

Appalachian Healthcare encompasses a range of healthcare roles in the Appalachian region, including nurses, technicians, and support staff. Appalachian Nurses specifically refer to registered nurses working within this area. While both roles operate in similar environments and require healthcare certifications, nurses have specialized training and licensing. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right opportunities within the Appalachian healthcare industry.

What are some common challenges faced by healthcare professionals working in Appalachian regions, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Healthcare professionals in Appalachian regions often encounter challenges such as limited access to resources, serving medically underserved populations, and navigating geographic barriers to care. Applicants should be prepared to work in environments where creative problem-solving and adaptability are essential, as well as develop strong communication skills to build trust within close-knit communities. Familiarity with rural health issues and a willingness to collaborate with local organizations can help new hires make a positive impact and thrive in this role.

What is Appalachian Healthcare?

Appalachian Healthcare refers to the network of medical services, professionals, and facilities that provide care to communities in the Appalachian region of the United States. This area often faces unique health challenges due to its rural nature, including limited access to healthcare providers, higher rates of chronic diseases, and socioeconomic barriers. Organizations and professionals working in Appalachian Healthcare strive to improve health outcomes through community-based initiatives, telemedicine, and culturally sensitive care. Efforts also focus on addressing public health concerns such as substance abuse, mental health, and preventive care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Appalachian healthcare roles, and why are they important?

To thrive in an Appalachian healthcare role, you need a solid background in clinical care, public health principles, and an understanding of rural health challenges, typically supported by a healthcare-related degree and relevant licensure. Familiarity with telemedicine platforms, electronic health records (EHRs), and community health outreach systems is often required. Strong cultural competency, resourcefulness, and excellent communication skills help providers connect with diverse rural populations and address unique healthcare barriers. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering effective, accessible, and compassionate care in underserved Appalachian communities.
More about Appalachian Healthcare jobs

What states have the most Appalachian Healthcare jobs?

States with the most job openings for Appalachian Healthcare jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Appalachian Healthcare jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Appalachian Healthcare jobs are:

Infographic showing various Appalachian Healthcare job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,999 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Occupational Health Registered Nurse

UNC Health Appalachian

Boone, NC

$30/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Occupational Health RN

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Part-Time | Days Vary


Why You'll Love Working Here

As an Occupational Health RN at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll coordinate health screenings, immunizations, and post-exposure follow-up for our employees, volunteers, students, contractors, and physicians — keeping our own workforce safe and healthy. You'll be part of a mission-driven health system committed to patient safety, quality outcomes, teamwork, and professional growth.

Nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Boone offers the perfect blend of community, culture, and outdoor adventure.

  • Compensation: Starting at $30.00 per hour, based on education and experience.
  • Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision, retirement with match, PTO, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness incentives, and employee discounts.

What You'll Do as an Occupational Health RN

  • Coordinate health screenings, immunizations, education, and health requirements for all employees, volunteers, students, contractors, and physicians.
  • Guide staff through post-exposure follow-up and counseling.
  • Assist with for-cause drug screening procedures.
  • Apply critical thinking and decisive judgment, working with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.
  • Handle interactions with clients in an ethical manner, practicing compassion and respect for each person's dignity and worth.
  • Communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, physicians, leadership, and volunteers.
  • Respond quickly and accurately to emergencies in the work environment.
  • Support top-tier outcomes for patient experience, quality, and safety.
  • Adhere to UNC Health Appalachian policies, regulatory requirements, and standards of behavior, practicing within the scope of your license.

Qualifications

  • Education:
    • Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
  • Experience:
    • Previous experience in a hospital or clinic setting as a Registered Nurse.
    • Previous Occupational Health experience preferred, but not required.
  • Licensure/Certifications:
    • Current licensure as a Registered Nurse in the State of North Carolina.
    • Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire.
    • Advanced Life Support (ACLS) certification from the American Heart Association required as applicable.
    • All required certifications (except BLS) must be obtained within 1 year of hire.
  • Skills & Abilities:
    • Strong communication skills; ability to work within the chain of command using positive verbal and non-verbal techniques.
    • Competence in delivering safe, effective patient care within the legal limits of license, certifications, and hospital policy.
    • Knowledge of the continuum of nursing care provided in the department.
    • Exceptional customer service for patients, families, staff, and physicians.

Physical & Work Environment

  • Prolonged standing and walking, often 8+ hours per shift; frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, twisting, turning, and reaching.
  • Occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull 50+ lbs; occasionally assist with mobilizing patients; manual dexterity and mobility required.
  • Frequent hand, finger, and wrist repetition; near visual acuity and close eye work; speaking, reading, and writing for extended periods.
  • Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, and hazards from electrical/mechanical equipment.
  • Occasional exposure to vibration, cramped spaces, and ionizing/nonionizing radiation (x-ray, microwave).
  • May be subject to irregular hours and emergencies.

What Sets Us Apart

  • Career Growth: Structured advancement pathways, tuition reimbursement, and ongoing development through our Career Pathways Program.
  • Impactful Work: As an Occupational Health RN, you'll safeguard the health and safety of our own workforce — supporting the teams who care for our community across our three community hospitals, 13 medical practices, and specialty centers like the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center.
  • Community & Lifestyle: Boone ranks among the best small towns in America, offering outdoor recreation, arts, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Inclusive Culture: UNC Health Appalachian is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels valued and supported.

Ready to help keep our workforce safe and healthy? Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and make a lasting impact on our community.


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.