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Entry Level Operating Room Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Operator Mechanic - 1st Shift

Rockford, IL · On-site

$27.55 - $28.97/hr

Inspection, Machine Shop, Tool Room, Maintenance, and Fabrication personnel. Supervisory ... for operating the line to which they are assigned. Including all quality checks, hourly counts ...

Operator Mechanic - 1st Shift

Rockford, IL · On-site

$27.55 - $28.97/hr

Inspection, Machine Shop, Tool Room, Maintenance, and Fabrication personnel. Supervisory ... for operating the line to which they are assigned. Including all quality checks, hourly counts ...

Showing results 21-40

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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Operating Room job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$20.19 - $31.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Rush University Medical Center rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 109 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 1,061 rated hospitals


Job description

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit: Rush Medical Center

Hospital: Rush University Medical Center

Department: Anesthesia

Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0. 9 and 1. 0)

Shift: Shift 2

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (12:30:00 PM - 9:00:00 PM)

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

Pay Range: $20.19 - $31.80 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:
Anesthesiology Technologist II are responsible for troubleshooting and repairing anesthesia equipment in collaboration with the biomedical engineering team as well as processing reusable equipment to manufacturer specifications. This role serves as an aid to the anesthesia providers during emergencies ensuring that all inventory/airway emergency supplies are stocked to the quantity as outlined by policy. Additionally, Anesthesiology Technologist II assists in the training/orientation of new employees and provides leadership and mentorship to entry level anesthesia technologists. This role Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision and ICARE values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures.

Other information:
Certified Anesthesia Technologist (Cer. A.T.T.) Certified by the American Society of Anesthesia Technicians and Technologists (ASATT) eligible/preferred or equivalent job experience and training
Must maintain BLS certification. ACLS/PALS preferred
Five years or more experience in Anesthesia Services. Demonstrate skills as a Lead Tech as to teach and lead junior techs
•Associate’s degree in Anesthesia Technology preferred
•High school diploma or general education degree (GED), or an equivalent combination of relevant education and training.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to safely transport anesthesia gas machines over long distances, lift 40 LBS or more, be on your feet for long periods of time.

Responsibilities:
1.Must be knowledgeable of the JACHO and IDPH regulations as it applies to Anesthesia.
2.Immediately respond to emergency requests from anesthesia staff for additional supplies/equipment as required.
3.Must be knowledgeable of terminology of anesthesia supplies and procedures.
4.Assist in the preparation of the anesthesia site for all cases/procedures requiring anesthesia.
5.Be familiar with the Medical Centers Safety Policies & Procedures.
6.Assists in the training/orientation of new employees.
7.Provide leadership and mentorship to entry-level anesthesia technicians, including training and assisting in their development.
8.Assist in recovering equipment.
9.Be certified in the use of the EVOTEK.
10.Be responsible for the cleanliness of all airway equipment per hospital policy (i.e. Glidescopes, fiberoptic intubating scopes, etc).
11.Maintain Anesthesia sites with the same specificity as the operating room suites which include the following areas but not limited to: PICU, Endoscopy, MRI, Interventional Radiology, IVF, OB and adjacent labor delivery rooms.
12.Maintain inventory supplies in the prep recovery area in 5 atrium.
13.Check all Anesthesia sites/inventory daily for outdated stock.
14.Responsible for stocking OB, labor delivery rooms, Epidural bay room, and other supply sites.
15.Responsible for assembling central line/ A-line kits in accordance with the agreed protocol.
16.Set-up in preparation in the cardiac and neuro anesthesia sites.
17.Check code bags for used/outdated equipment/ supplies and maintain inventory according to protocol.
18.Remove and replace all used single patient care items immediately after each procedure/case.
19.Assist in the turnover of cases, but not limited to: disposal of all single use items, replacement of the anesthesia circuit, suction canister and tubing, yankauer, ECG leads. Wiping down anesthesia machine and Pyxis cart.
20.Monitor inventory supply/equipment levels throughout the day.
21.Must be knowledgeable and be able to provide Airway set-ups, gas machine testing and troubleshooting, patient monitor set-ups and emergency airway assistance.
22.Prepares, disinfects, and troubleshoots all anesthesia-related equipment and supplies for anesthetic procedures. This includes but is not limited to the following: Anesthesia Machines (e.g. Draeger, Draeger Apollo, etc.).
23.Troubleshoot and repair anesthesia equipment malfunctions in collaboration with the biomedical engineering team or external vendors.
24.Participate in quality assurance and safety audits related to anesthesia equipment.
25.Must demonstrate strong communication skills and ability to work well with the team.

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.


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