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Operating Nurse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Surgery Center

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Operating Room Nurse

Greenville, SC · On-site

$38 - $44/hr

The Registered Operating Nurse (RN) is a licensed professional responsible for helping to oversee daily clinical operations in the Operating Room. This role ensures the delivery of safe, effective ...

Constantine

GT-RN operating nurse

Germantown, MD · On-site

GT-RN Operating Nurse Start Date: 08/21/2022 End Date: 11/19/2022 Status: Open Total Positions: 1 Skill: Registered Nurse Duration: 13 Weeks Location: MD - Holy Cross Hospital_ Germantown Shift Start ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Operating Nurse information

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How much do operating nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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.

What is an operating nurse?

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 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.

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.

How much do operating nurses make a year?

Operating nurses, also known as perioperative nurses, typically earn an average annual salary of around $75,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the healthcare facility and the complexity of surgical procedures they assist with.
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Operating Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Nurse job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,573 per year, or $45.5 per hour.