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Entry Level Operating Room Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Metalex

General Opportunities

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$18.95 - $40/hr

... from entry-level production candidates to experienced machine operators, material handlers ... Tool & Die - Levels 1-3: Set up and operate tool-room equipment; repair, troubleshoot, modify, fit ...

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Entry Level Operating Room information

What is an entry level operating room job?

Entry level operating room jobs typically refer to positions such as surgical technologists, operating room assistants, or scrub techs who support surgeons and nurses during surgical procedures. These roles often involve preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and assisting with patient care before, during, and after surgery. Entry-level roles usually require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may need a specialized certification or on-the-job training. These positions provide valuable experience for those interested in advancing within surgical or healthcare careers.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level operating room technician?

To thrive as an entry level operating room technician, you need a solid understanding of sterile technique, basic surgical procedures, and a certificate or diploma in surgical technology. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterilization equipment, and electronic documentation systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensuring patient safety, supporting surgical teams, and maintaining efficient operating room workflows.

What are common challenges faced by entry level staff in the operating room, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level operating room staff often face challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment, learning complex surgical protocols, and managing stress during high-stakes procedures. It’s important to ask questions, seek guidance from experienced team members, and participate in ongoing training to build confidence and proficiency. Developing strong communication skills and staying organized can also help new team members effectively support surgeons and nurses, ensuring patient safety and smooth operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operating Room vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectEntry Level Operating RoomSurgical Technologist
CertificationsCPR, Basic Life Support (BLS), possibly Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or equivalent certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgery centers, clinics
Job RoleAssist in surgical procedures, prepare operating rooms, pass instrumentsPrepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment, assist during surgeries

Both roles typically require similar certifications and work in hospital or surgical settings. An Entry Level Operating Room often refers to a beginner position assisting in surgeries, while a Surgical Technologist is a certified professional with specific credentials. The roles overlap in duties and environment, making them closely related entry-level positions in surgical support.

How to get entry level operating room experience?

Entry level operating room experience can be gained through completing relevant healthcare training programs such as surgical technician or nursing assistant certifications, volunteering or shadowing in medical settings, and applying for entry-level positions that provide on-the-job training. Developing skills in sterile techniques, patient care, and teamwork is essential for advancing in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Room jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Operating Room jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operating Room jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operating Room jobs in Illinois are:

Entry Level Operating Room jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operating Room job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, and 48% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Surgical Assistant Licensed Operating Room

Oak Park, IL • On-site

Rush University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Rush Universityexternal

$29.36 - $47.79/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Rush University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Description

Location: Oak Park, Illinois

Business Unit: Rush Oak Park

Hospital: Rush Oak Park Hospital

Department: Operating Room

Work Type: Part Time (Total FTE between 0.5 and 0.89)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (7:00:00 AM - 3:30:00 PM)

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://www.rush.edu/rush-careers/employee-benefits).

Pay Range: $29.36 - $47.79 per hour

Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

Summary:

The surgical assistant actively assists the surgeon with technical functions that are required at the sterile field while performing operative procedures within the operating room environment. Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures.

Other information:

Required Job Qualifications:

• Graduate of an accredited school of medicine/surgical assistant program/AD in surgical technology with surgical assistant’s certification

• Basic CPR Certification

• Entry level experience

• Good communication skills

• Time management

• Flexibility with schedule to accommodate staffing needs

Physical Demands:

• Work environment includes probability of exposure to adverse, hazardous, or unpleasant conditions

• Routinely comes in contact with potentially infectious patients and specimens

• Operation of surgical equipment; supplies; and instrumentation as needed.

• Ability to stand and walk throughout most of designated shift.

• Bending, twisting, reaching, pulling, pushing, and balancing.

• Ability to carry items weighing up to >100 pounds.

• Ability to lift items weighing 10-50 pounds, above 50 pounds utilizes appropriate lift equipment.

Responsibilities:

• Assists with surgical procedures within the O.R. environment.

• Technical competence with equipment; supplies and surgical instrumentation.

• Recognizes and utilizes safety precautions and procedures in performing operative procedures and handing instruments; positioning patients; etc.

• Demonstrates the skills and judgments necessary to provide direct care to patients under the direct supervision of licensed personnel.

• Maintains a therapeutic relationship to provide optimal customer/focused care.

• Communicates effectively with patients at a level appropriate to age and cognitive status, showing sensitivity to cultural diversity.

• Interacts effectively with peers and other hospital staff to foster positive working relationships.

• Works collaboratively with other members of the healthcare team to assure high levels of patient care.

• Follows CDC and AORN guidelines for hand washing and all safety procedures and is aware to follow isolation precaution.

• Participates as member of the team in Time outs and safety checks.

• Works as a team to assure that patients feel safe and well care for while being at ROPH.

• Responsible for the oversight and maintenance of supply inventories within the surgery department.

• Maintains current knowledge/certification (CPR Training)

• Performs specimen collection with appropriate attention to safety and accuracy.

• Anticipate needs of team members and keeps them informed.

• Documents accurately, timely, and at point-of-care when possible.

Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Position Surgical Assistant Licensed Operating Room

Location US:IL:Oak Park

Req ID 29563

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