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Operating Room Assistant Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

ER Tech

Boone, IA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Empties sharps containers when indicated * Assist with undressing and dressing of patients and toileting of patients * Performs finger sticks bedside glucometer testing as directed by RN or Physician

ER Tech

Boone, IA · On-site

Empties sharps containers when indicated. Assist with undressing and dressing of patients and toileting of patients. Performs finger sticks bedside glucometer testing as directed by RN or Physician.

Physician Assistant - Spine

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

As a Physician Assistant supporting a Orthopaedic Spine Physician at Des Moines Orthopaedic ... You'll spend part of your week in the Operating Room and part of your week in the clinic working ...

Physician Assistant - Spine

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

Physician Assistant As a Physician Assistant supporting an Orthopaedic Spine Physician at Des ... You'll spend part of your week in the Operating Room and part of your week in the clinic working ...

Physician Assistant - Spine

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

As a Physician Assistant supporting a Orthopaedic Spine Physician at Des Moines Orthopaedic ... You'll spend part of your week in the Operating Room and part of your week in the clinic working ...

Medical Assistant

Radcliffe, IA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

Medical Assistant

Webster City, IA

$17 - $21.75/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

Medical Assistant

Ames, IA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

Medical Assistant

Baxter, IA

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

Showing results 21-40

Operating Room Assistant information

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.

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 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 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 do you need to be an operating room assistant?

To become an operating room assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication skills, and the ability to follow instructions. Some positions may require certification in basic life support or patient care, and familiarity with medical tools and sterile procedures is beneficial.
What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Assistant jobs in Ames, IA? For Operating Room Assistant jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Room Assistant jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Room Assistant jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

RN, BSN (FT) | Orthopedic Surgery | Ames |

McFarland Clinic

Ames, IA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


McFarland Clinic rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Orthopedic Nurse Opportunity

This position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with an Orthopedic Surgeon and PA while caring for patients throughout their surgical journey. This role provides variety in your workday, with responsibilities in both the clinic and operating room, making it an excellent opportunity for nurses interested in variety. Why Nurses Enjoy This Role: Consistent weekday schedule Supportive and flexible team environment Collaborative environment Feedback-rich culture where staff input is valued Great work-life balance Staff appreciation including potlucks and monthly catered lunches Annual raises Schedule: Monday – Friday Responsibilities: Assist with patient care in the clinic Support operating room procedures Provide pre-operative and post-operative patient education Coordinate patient care including: Prior authorizations Surgical scheduling Imaging coordination Referrals Education: Graduate of an accredited school of nursing Licensure / Certification: Active Iowa Registered Nurse license Basic Life Support (BLS) certification for Health Care Providers Mandatory Reporting of Dependent Adult and Child Abuse Experience is not required! We are happy to train motivated nurses interested in learning a surgical specialty. Additional compensation: $4.00/hour surgical differential

Pre-employment drug screen and criminal history background checks are a condition of hire.

McFarland Clinic offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental insurance, 401(k), and PTO. Click here for details.

McFarland Clinic is central Iowa's largest physician-owned multi-specialty clinic. Join our team and join a group of caring professionals, dedicated to providing Extraordinary Care, Every Day! We value quality care and extraordinary service, trusting relationships and an exceptional workplace. Our organization has more than 80 years experience of caring for people. We welcome applicants who can help us enhance the health and well-being of our patients and communities we serve.

McFarland Clinic is an Equal Opportunity Employer McFarland Clinic makes every effort to comply with all requirements of federal, state and local laws relating to Equal Employment Opportunity.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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