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Operating Nurse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

iPlace USA

Operating Room Nurse

Kettering, OH

$33.25 - $45.25/hr

Company Description Operating Room Nurse , based in Kettering Ohio, your mission is to embrace best-in-class nursing processes to provide excellence in nursing care to your patients in all settings ...

iPlace USA

Operating Room Nurse

Kettering, OH · On-site

$33.25 - $45.25/hr

Company Description Operating Room Nurse , based in Kettering Ohio, your mission is to embrace best-in-class nursing processes to provide excellence in nursing care to your patients in all settings ...

Brooklyn Hospital Center

Staff Nurse

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

The Staff Nurse in the Operating Room provides professional nursing care to all people of all ages and their families. Utilizes knowledge of nursing process to assess, plan, intervene, evaluate and ...

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How much do operating nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating nurse in the United States is $45.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.82 and $48.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to make 300,000 as a nurse?

To earn $300,000 as an operating nurse, professionals typically need extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialization in high-demand areas such as surgical or perioperative nursing. Working in high-paying healthcare facilities, taking on overtime or per diem shifts, and pursuing leadership or advanced roles can also increase earning potential.

What does an operating nurse do?

An operating nurse, also known as a perioperative nurse, provides care before, during, and after surgical procedures. They prepare the operating room, assist surgeons and surgical teams, monitor patient vital signs, and ensure sterile techniques are maintained throughout the surgery. Certification in perioperative nursing and knowledge of surgical instruments are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operating Nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Nurse, you need in-depth knowledge of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and patient safety protocols, typically backed by a nursing degree and valid RN license with perioperative certification (such as CNOR) preferred. Familiarity with operating room equipment, surgical instrumentation, and electronic health records (EHRs) is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and effective collaboration with surgical teams during critical procedures.

What are some common challenges Operating Nurses face during surgical procedures, and how can they effectively manage them?

Operating Nurses often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected changes during surgery, maintaining strict sterile techniques, and communicating efficiently with the surgical team under pressure. To effectively manage these situations, staying organized, remaining adaptable, and continually updating clinical skills are crucial. Building strong relationships with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and fellow nurses also fosters teamwork, which is vital for patient safety and smooth surgical workflows.

How to make an extra $2000 a month as a nurse?

Operating nurses can increase their income by taking on per diem or overtime shifts, which often pay higher rates, or by working in specialized areas such as surgical or critical care that offer higher compensation. Gaining additional certifications or skills can also qualify nurses for higher-paying roles or private duty nursing opportunities.

How to make 200,000 a year as a nurse?

Operating nurses can reach a $200,000 annual salary by gaining extensive experience, working in high-paying specialties such as perioperative or cardiovascular surgery, obtaining advanced certifications, and working in facilities with higher compensation rates. Working overtime, night shifts, or in management roles can also increase earnings, especially in urban or specialized healthcare settings.

What are Operating Nurses?

Operating Nurses, also known as perioperative or surgical nurses, are registered nurses who assist in surgical procedures. They prepare the operating room, ensure all surgical instruments are sterile and available, and support the surgical team throughout the operation. Their responsibilities also include monitoring the patient’s condition before, during, and after surgery. Operating Nurses play a vital role in maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring patient safety during surgical procedures.

What is the difference between Operating Nurse vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectOperating NurseSurgical Technologist
CredentialsRN license, sometimes specialized certificationsPost-secondary certificate or diploma, no RN license
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsOperating rooms, surgical centers
Roles & ResponsibilitiesAssesses patient, assists during surgery, manages patient carePrepares operating room, hands instruments, maintains sterile environment

Operating Nurses and Surgical Technologists both work in surgical settings, but Operating Nurses have RN licensure and provide direct patient care, while Surgical Technologists focus on preparing the operating room and assisting surgeons. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Operating Nurse jobs
What cities are hiring for Operating Nurse jobs? Cities with the most Operating Nurse job openings:
What states have the most Operating Nurse jobs? States with the most job openings for Operating Nurse jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Operating Nurse jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Nurse jobs are:
Operating Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Nurse job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,573 per year, or $45.5 per hour.
Operating Room Registered Nurse

Operating Room Registered Nurse

Wolfe Eye Clinic

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Wolfe Eye Clinic rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Operating Room Registered Nurse

 At Wolfe Eye clinic, we create Better Vision for a Better Life.

Wolfe Surgery Center in Wes Des Moines has an immediate opening for a full-time Operating Room Circulating Registered Nurse. 

The Operating Room Registered Nurse will be responsible for operating duties such as:

  • Pre-operative assessments
  • Preparing operating rooms
  • Administering medications
  • Other duties as assigned

Successful candidates must have:

  • Good time management skills
  • Good communication skills
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

 Applicants must be able to demonstrate critical thinking skills, scientific judgment, and leadership in the anticipation and planning for the care of the OR population.
Applicants must have current Iowa RN license, BLS, PALS and ACLS. Two years of experience as an operating nurse and IV skills preferred.

If you are interested in being part of a quality driven organization while receiving a competitive wage and benefits (health, dental, 401k, paid-time-off, etc.) please apply at www.wolfeeyeclinic.com/careers . 

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