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Operating Room Assistant Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Travel Nurse RN - CVOR

Greenville, NC · On-site

$2.8K - $3.0K/wk

Provide skilled nursing support in the cardiovascular operating room * Assist with preoperative preparation, intraoperative care, and patient safety * Collaborate closely with surgeons, anesthesia ...

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Operating Room Assistant information

See North Carolina salary details

$9

$14

$31

How much do operating room assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room assistant in North Carolina is $14.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.78 and $14.31 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 North Carolina?

The most popular types of Operating Room jobs in North Carolina are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Room Assistant jobs in North Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Room Assistant jobs in North Carolina are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,794 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Operating Room Assistant - Surgical Services

Dosher Memorial Hospital

Southport, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Dosher Memorial Hospital rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 1,065 rated hospitals


Job description

Job Posting
Operating Room Assistant - Surgical Services
(Full-Time Days) Operating Room Assistant
Monday - Friday
QUALIFICATIONS
• A high school diploma or GED equivalent
• Prior operating room experience or hospital environment preferred
• BLS within first six months of hire
SKILLS
• Knowledge of working around a sterile field without causing contamination
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Carrying and lifting up to 50 lbs
Pulling/ Pushing greater than 100 lbs
The OR Assistant manages and maintains the cleanliness around and in the operating room where surgeries take place. Handles and cleans all equipment required for surgery. Assists with the patient positioning on the operating room under direction of the nursing surgical team. Ensures all equipment and parts are present, clean, and in working order for the procedure. Assists in the "setup" of equipment for a surgical procedure. Maintain a steady level of productivity. Assist with transport of patients as needed. Stocking and restocking room supplies as needed. Perform daily checks/monitoring and documentation of eye wash stations, blanket and fluid warmers
Performs other duties as assigned
Additional Information
Position Type : Full Time
Shift : Day
Contact Information
Megan Shrewsbury - HR Manager
Human Resources
924 N. Howe St
Southport, NC 28461
Email: meganshrewsbury@dosher.org
Phone: 910-457-3801
Fax: 910-457-7013
Environmental Services Tech, Operating Room, Housekeeper

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