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Circulator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Surgical Registered Nurse Circulator RN Registered Nurse Job Type: Regular-Full time Shift : First Shift (United States of America)

RN Circulator - Part-time GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES : To provide total patient care by utilizing the nursing process and implementing the standards of peri-procedure nursing. To assume the leadership ...

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Circulator information

See Alabama salary details

$13

$113

$173

How much do circulator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulator in Alabama is $113.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83.03 and $151.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a circulator?

Circulators are healthcare professionals, often registered nurses, who work in operating rooms to manage the overall environment and ensure everything runs smoothly during surgical procedures. Their primary role is to act as a liaison between the surgical team and other hospital staff, handle documentation, and ensure the operating room is properly equipped and maintained. Circulators do not scrub in or directly assist with surgery but are essential for patient safety and effective workflow. They also help prepare the patient for surgery and monitor their condition throughout the procedure.

How does a circulator collaborate with surgical teams during procedures?

A Circulator plays a vital role in supporting the surgical team by ensuring that all necessary supplies, instruments, and equipment are readily available and sterile during procedures. They maintain clear communication with surgeons, scrub techs, and anesthesiologists to anticipate needs and respond quickly to any changes. Circulators also manage documentation and patient safety protocols, helping create a smooth, efficient workflow and a safe environment for both patients and staff.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a circulator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Circulator (Operating Room Nurse), you need a solid background in perioperative nursing, patient care, and surgical procedures, usually supported by an RN license and relevant experience. Familiarity with operating room protocols, sterile techniques, and tools like electronic health records (EHRs) is essential, and certifications such as CNOR are often preferred. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong communication are crucial for coordinating surgical teams and ensuring patient safety. These skills are vital to maintain a safe, efficient surgical environment and to support optimal patient outcomes during procedures.

What is the difference between Circulator vs Patient Transporter?

AspectCirculatorPatient Transporter
Required CredentialsCPR certification, sometimes a healthcare-related certificationBasic training, CPR certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, nursing homes, outpatient facilities
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare facilities, surgical teamsHospitals, patient care units
Common Search & Comparison IntentRoles supporting surgical proceduresRoles assisting with patient movement

While both Circulators and Patient Transporters work in healthcare settings, Circulators primarily assist during surgical procedures, ensuring sterile environments and supporting surgical teams. Patient Transporters focus on moving patients safely within healthcare facilities. Understanding these differences helps clarify their distinct roles in patient care and hospital operations.

Infographic showing various Circulator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $235,396 per year, or $113.2 per hour.

RN-OR CIRCULATOR | SURGICAL SERVICES

UAB Medical West

Mccalla, AL • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


UAB Medical West rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

868th of 1,054 rated hospitals


Job description

About the Role:
The RN-Circulator plays a critical role in the operating room by ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of surgical procedures. This position involves coordinating patient care before, during, and after surgery, acting as a liaison between the surgical team and other hospital departments. The RN-Circulator is responsible for maintaining a sterile environment, managing surgical supplies, and anticipating the needs of the surgical team to facilitate efficient workflow. This role requires vigilance, quick decision-making, and excellent communication skills to respond promptly to any changes in patient status or surgical requirements. Ultimately, the RN-Circulator contributes significantly to patient safety and positive surgical outcomes through meticulous attention to detail and proactive support of the surgical team.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) license.
  • Completion of an accredited nursing program (Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Nursing).
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
  • Experience working in a surgical or perioperative nursing environment.
  • Strong knowledge of sterile techniques and operating room protocols.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certification in Perioperative Nursing (CNOR) or eligibility to obtain it.
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.
  • Experience with electronic medical records (EMR) systems specific to surgical settings.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in high-pressure environments with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Additional training or coursework in patient safety and infection control.
Responsibilities:
  • Prepare the operating room by ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies are sterile and available.
  • Assist in patient positioning and ensure patient safety and comfort throughout the surgical procedure.
  • Monitor the surgical environment to maintain aseptic technique and prevent infection.
  • Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other team members to anticipate and fulfill intraoperative needs.
  • Document all aspects of the surgical procedure accurately, including patient information, supplies used, and any intraoperative events.
  • Respond promptly to emergencies or unexpected situations during surgery, coordinating with the team to implement appropriate interventions.
  • Facilitate communication between the surgical team and other hospital departments to ensure continuity of care.
  • Assist with post-operative patient transfer and provide relevant information to recovery room staff.

Skills:
The RN-Circulator utilizes clinical nursing skills daily to monitor patient status and maintain sterile conditions, ensuring patient safety throughout surgical procedures. Strong communication skills are essential for coordinating with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to anticipate and meet intraoperative needs efficiently. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities enable the RN-Circulator to respond effectively to unexpected situations or emergencies in the operating room. Organizational skills are applied to manage surgical supplies, document procedures accurately, and maintain compliance with hospital protocols. Preferred skills such as proficiency with EMR systems and advanced certifications enhance the RN-Circulator's ability to deliver high-quality perioperative care and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

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