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Entry Level Operating Room Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Centstone HC

Surgical Technologist

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

... Entry-level accepted; surgical technologist experience preferred About the Role We are seeking a ... operating room workflow. Responsibilities • Support the RN and surgical team with limited direct ...

Jackson Specialty Care

RN/LPN - Part Time

Maquoketa, IA

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Active RN or LPN License in Iowa * Experience in long-term care or skilled nursing preferred ... High School Diploma/GED Experience * Entry Level (0-2 years) Benefits/Perks: * Sign-On Bonus

CYNET SYSTEMS

Robo Wrapper

Coralville, IA · On-site

$16/hr

Open to entry level workers (1+ years warehouse experience is a plus). * Manual labor experience ... Work in different temperatures including a cool dock (70% of the time in ambient room temp, 30% of ...

Sparkle Squad

Window Cleaning Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Locally owned and operated * Competitive salary * Flexible schedule * Opportunity for advancement ... All our managers started at entry-level positions within the company and there is plenty of room to ...

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All JobsOperating Room JobsEntry Level Operating Room JobsEntry Level Operating Room Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Operating Room information

See Iowa salary details

$575

$1.7K

$2.5K

How much do entry level operating room jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level operating room in Iowa is $1,656.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,311.54 and $2,019.23 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry-level operating room jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized training or certifications. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree are rare and often involve skilled trades, sales, or entrepreneurial work, but most healthcare positions require relevant education or experience. For high earnings, consider roles in sales, real estate, or skilled trades that emphasize experience and performance over formal degrees.

Do you need experience to be an operating room assistant?

Entry level operating room assistants typically do not need prior experience, as training is often provided on the job. However, having a background in healthcare, such as a certification in medical assisting or phlebotomy, can be beneficial. Strong communication skills and the ability to follow strict protocols are important in this role.

What are some 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Operating Room Technician, and why are they important?

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.

Is surgical tech harder than RN?

Surgical technologists and registered nurses (RNs) in the operating room have different responsibilities; RNs typically have more advanced training and broader patient care duties, making their role generally more complex. Surgical techs focus on preparing the operating room and assisting during surgeries, requiring technical skills and knowledge of surgical instruments. Both roles require certification and specialized training, but RNs usually undergo longer education and have a wider scope of practice.

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.

What is the easiest hospital job to get into?

Entry-level hospital jobs such as patient transport, medical receptionist, or cleaning staff are generally easier to obtain due to lower certification requirements and high turnover. These roles often require minimal prior experience and provide opportunities to gain healthcare exposure before advancing to more specialized positions like an entry-level operating room technician.

What are entry level operating room jobs?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Operating Room jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Operating Room jobs in Iowa are:
Entry Level Operating Room jobs near you

Surgical Technologist

Centstone HC

Atlantic, IA • On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Surgical Technologist

Location: Atlantic, Iowa

Pay Rate: $50/hr

Contract: 13 weeks

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 6:45 AM – 3:15 PM; rotating call with 30-minute response time

Guaranteed Hours: 40 hours per week

Experience: Entry-level accepted; surgical technologist experience preferred

About the Role

We are seeking a Surgical Technologist for a 13-week contract opportunity in Atlantic, Iowa. This role supports safe, efficient, and high-quality surgical care under the supervision of the RN and assists the surgical team by preparing instruments, maintaining sterile technique, and supporting smooth operating room workflow.

Responsibilities

• Support the RN and surgical team with limited direct patient care during procedures

• Prepare and handle surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment

• Set up, maintain, and protect the sterile field throughout procedures

• Anticipate surgeon needs based on the procedure being performed

• Assist with instrument cleaning, room turnover, and preparation for the next case

Requirements

• BLS/BCLS Certification Required

• Surgical Technologist training or operating room experience preferred

• Knowledge of sterile technique, surgical instruments, and OR procedures required

• EPIC experience preferred

• Must be available for Monday–Friday day shift and rotating call with 30-minute response time

Bring your surgical technologist skills to a strong OR opportunity where your precision, teamwork, and attention to sterile technique can support safe and successful surgical care.