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Operating Room Assistant Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

Centstone HC

Operating Room Registered Nurse

Grants, NM · On-site

$55 - $58/hr

Operating Room Registered Nurse Location: Grants, New Mexico Pay Rate: $60.00-$63.00/hr Contract ... Document intraoperative care, supplies, specimens, implants, and patient responses * Assist with ...

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Operating Room Assistant information

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$10

$16

$35

How much do operating room assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room assistant in New Mexico is $16.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.05 and $16.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating room assistant?

Operating Room Assistants, also known as OR Assistants or surgical support staff, are healthcare workers who play a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and efficiency of the operating room. They transport patients, prepare and clean surgical areas, manage surgical instruments, and assist nurses and surgical teams with non-sterile tasks before, during, and after procedures. Their support ensures a sterile and organized environment, helping surgeries run smoothly and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operating room assistant?

To thrive as an Operating Room Assistant, you need a basic understanding of surgical procedures, infection control, and patient care, typically supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification in sterile processing. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterilization equipment, and hospital inventory systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help ensure smooth operations and patient safety in high-pressure environments. These abilities are vital for maintaining a sterile environment, supporting surgical teams, and ensuring successful surgical outcomes.

What are some common challenges operating room assistants face during surgical procedures?

Operating Room Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict sterility in a fast-paced environment, quickly adapting to changing surgical needs, and efficiently coordinating with the surgical team under pressure. They must be vigilant to prevent contamination, manage surgical instruments, and anticipate the needs of surgeons and nurses. Strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm during emergencies are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Operating Room Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectOperating Room AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingPost-secondary education; certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, surgical centersHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient facilities
Job RoleAssist surgical team with supplies, prep rooms, and patient carePrepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, assist during surgeries

While both roles support surgical teams, Operating Room Assistants typically focus on patient support and logistical tasks, whereas Surgical Technologists have specialized training to prepare surgical instruments and assist directly during procedures. Both roles are essential in surgical settings, but Surgical Technologists usually require formal certification and have more technical responsibilities.

How do you become an operating room assistant?

To become an operating room assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue relevant certifications such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Surgical Technologist. On-the-job training is common, and strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are important skills for the role.

How hard is it to become an operating room assistant?

Becoming an operating room assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or certification in healthcare support. Some positions may prefer or require knowledge of medical terminology, basic patient care skills, and familiarity with surgical environments, but the entry process is generally accessible with minimal formal education.

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

The most popular types of Operating Room jobs in New Mexico are:

What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Assistant jobs in New Mexico?

For Operating Room Assistant jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Room Assistant jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Room Assistant jobs in New Mexico are:

What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs?

Cities in New Mexico with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:

Operating Room Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,421 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

51101 - Travel: RN - Operating Room/Surgery - DAYS

VieMed

Santa Fe, NM • On-site

$60.30/hr

Other

Medical

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

VieMed rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Travel Registered Nurse – Operating Room/Surgery (Days) – Santa Fe, NM

Looking for a rewarding travel nursing opportunity? Join a leading facility in Santa Fe, New Mexico, as an Operating Room/Surgery RN. Enjoy a stable schedule with 10-hour daytime shifts, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits. Start as soon as September 7, 2026, with a planned assignment through December 5, 2026. Don't miss this chance to advance your career while experiencing the vibrant culture of Santa Fe!

Quick Facts
  • Location: Santa Fe, NM
  • Start Date: 09/07/2026
  • End Date: 12/05/2026
  • Shift: Days, 10 hours
  • Hours/Week: 40 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel/Contract
  • Licenses/Certs: Current RN license (NM or Compact), BLS, ACLS (AHA)
  • Experience: Approved experience in Operating Room/Surgery
Pay & Benefits
  • Hourly Pay Rate: $60.30/hr
  • Benefits:
    • Competitive pay packages
    • Weekly pay schedule via direct deposit
    • Medical benefits (W-2)
    • Robust referral bonus program
    • Licensure, certification, travel, and other reimbursements when applicable
    • Paid sick time in accordance with all applicable laws
What You'll Do
  • Provide high-quality perioperative care to surgical patients in the operating room
  • Assist in preparing the OR, equipment, and surgical teams for procedures
  • Monitor patient status during surgical interventions and respond to emergent needs
  • Document all patient care activities in compliance with hospital policies
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure safe, efficient surgeries
  • Support patient and family education related to procedures and post-op care
  • Follow infection control and safety protocols rigorously
What You Need
  • Required:
    • Valid NM RN license or current Compact license
    • BLS and ACLS certifications from AHA
    • 1+ years of recent OR/Surgery nursing experience
    • Strong knowledge of surgical procedures and sterile techniques
  • Preferred:
    • Experience in a high-volume surgical unit
    • Ability to adapt quickly to new environments and protocols
About the Assignment

This assignment involves providing specialized perioperative nursing care in a busy surgical unit. The facility is dedicated to delivering safe, effective surgical services and supporting staff through a collaborative team environment. You will play an integral role in patient outcomes while gaining valuable travel experience in one of New Mexico's most iconic cities. VHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer ("EEO")/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/E-Verify Employer and welcomes all to apply #LiveYourLife #VHSNursingAllied.

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