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

ER Tech

Boone, IA ยท 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.

CNA Driver

Ames, IA ยท On-site

Green Hills is actively looking for a hospitality-minded Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)/Driver, to join our growing team! CNA's provide care to our residents under the direction of the RN or LPN on duty ...

New

CNA Driver

Ames, IA ยท On-site

Green Hills is actively looking for a hospitality-minded Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)/Driver, to join our growing team! CNA's provide care to our residents under the direction of the RN or LPN on duty ...

CNA Driver

Ames, IA ยท On-site

Green Hills is actively looking for a hospitality-minded Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)/Driver, to join our growing team! CNA's provide care to our residents under the direction of the RN or LPN on duty ...

CNA Driver

Ames, IA ยท On-site

Green Hills is actively looking for a hospitality-minded Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)/Driver, to join our growing team! CNA's provide care to our residents under the direction of the RN or LPN on duty ...

CNA Driver

Ames, IA ยท On-site

Green Hills is actively looking for a hospitality-minded Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)/Driver, to join our growing team! CNA's provide care to our residents under the direction of the RN or LPN on duty ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Operating Room Assistant information

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 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, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

$20 - $28/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Join our Emergency Room Team today! Our mission is to improve and enhance the health and well-being of those we serve. We offer a team approach to healthcare and a competitive benefits package.
Status: Part-Time with Benefits
Shift: Nights,
Shift Time Schedule: Varies
Days: Varies, 24 hours/week
We offer competitive pay and a great benefits package that includes:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Health Saving Accounts (HSA)
  • Life Insurance
  • Aflac
  • Short-term and long-term disability coverage
  • Wellness program and reimbursement
  • Free access to Boone County Hospital's on-site fitness room
  • Generous PTO Accrual Plan
  • Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Onsite Cafeteria

Salary Scale: $20.00-$28.00
POSITION SUMMARY:
Assist with care of patients of all ages in the emergency department in accordance with hospital policies and procedures. Under close supervision, provides technical support for physicians and nurse in the Emergency Department.
BCH POLICY STATEMENT:
It is the obligation of each employee of Boone County Hospital (BCH) to abide by and promote BCH's mission, values, Code of Conduct, Standards of Behavior, policies, procedures and related practices. This includes policies relating to Compliance, Infection Control and Safety.
HIPAA SECURITY COMPLIANCE:
Boone County Hospital is committed to following all federal guidelines related to privacy and security. All employees will be held to the highest standard of confidentiality, and will be required to annually sign an employee confidentiality agreement that outlines the rules and expectation for every BCH employee. Failure to abide by these guidelines could lead to disciplinary action including termination.
Security Access: High Incumbent has access to restricted or confidential patient information and must comply with the terms of the BCH privacy & security policies as it applies to their job.
BEHAVIORAL REQUIREMENTS:
Boone County Hospital has developed standards for behavior expectations of all employees. Please refer to the Boone County Hospital Standards of Behavior.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Perform various functions as a member of the trauma response teams including but not limited to: setting up I.V.'s, placing patient on monitor and setting up pleurovacs
  • Assist professional medical personnel in emergency treatment as directed
  • Document care provided/Vital Signs in EMR or paper documentation
  • Assists emergency physicians by obtaining necessary materials for suturing, dressings and performs basic splinting on fingers, shoulders or ankles
  • Stocks unit supplies and reports defective equipment. Monitor equipment and inventories supplies to maintain proper inventory levels
  • Transport patients to appropriate areas of care and assists with loading and unloading of patients
  • Assists with preparation for transfer of patients from ED to include making copies of chart, lab and x-rays
  • Assists with room/cart preparation and cleaning between patients. 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
  • Collaborates with RN and physician to keep patients and families updated every 15 minutes when there is a delay in the progression of their care. Attempts to keep patients waiting in the lobby updated at least every 30 minutes as to how long their wait may be
  • Accurately performs EKGs with physician order
  • Obtains weights on all pediatric patients, obtains weight on adults as per RN or physician
  • Makes periodic checks of lobby to check for cleanliness and any potential problems
  • Provides safe environment for all patients (i.e.: side rails) and provides increased attention to those patients who require observation and/or restraint (i.e.: assures that children are not left unattended)
  • Identifies patient alarms and reports immediately to RN
  • Answers call lights promptly and summons appropriate staff as needed
  • Answers telephone calls and directs call to appropriate personnel
  • Assists physicians and nursing personnel with procedures as directed to include, but not limited to holding of instruments, stabilizing of extremities and adjusting of lighting
  • Participates in staff meetings and hospital wide in-service programs as required
  • Demonstrates knowledge and skills necessary to assist in providing care appropriate to the ages of the patients served (Neonate to Geriatric) within the department
  • Maintains performance in compliance with State and Federal laws, and consistent with high standards of business and professional ethics
  • Participates in staff meetings and hospital wide in-service programs as required
  • Work within role of ER Technician, which may not include all of the roles within their Licensure: CNA, EMT

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
  • To perform this job successfully, and individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required
  • One year of experience as CNA, EMT, Nursing Student or equivalent health care experience required
  • High School diploma or equivalent. Active CNA license, Active EMT certification, or currently enrolled in a nursing program
  • Maintain current Health Care Provider Level BCLS
  • Detailed-orientated, adaptive, great communication skills, critical thinker, caring nature, and regular attendance
  • Ability to read, analyze and interpret documents such as operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals and safety rules. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  1. Activity Level

Percent of Time
Sedentary Work:
Exerting up to 10 lbs. of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently.
40%
Light Work:
Exerting up to 20 lbs. of force occasionally and/or 10 lbs. of force frequently.
30%
Medium Work:
Exerting up to 20 - 50 lbs. of force occasionally and/or 10 - 25 lbs. of force frequently.
20%
Heavy Work:
Exerting up to 50 - 100 lbs. of force occasionally and/or 20 - 50 lbs. of force frequently.
10%
Very Heavy Work:
Exerting over 100 lbs. of force occasionally and/or 50 -1 00 lbs. of force frequently.
0%
Total:
100%
B. Functions and Activities
Key
C = Continuous
F = Frequent
O = Occasional
N = Not Applicable
More than 5.5 hours (67-100%) > 500 reps/day
2.5 to 5.5 hours (34-66%) 101-500 reps/day
Less than 2.5 hours (1-33%) 1-100 reps/day
Not at all or rarely
Activity
C
F
O
N
Comments
Waist to Floor Lift, 0-20 lbs.
X
Waist to floor lift of various equipment, materials, and supplies, and when moving patients ranging in weight from 0-20 lbs. up to approximately 36".
Waist to Floor Lift, 21-75 lbs.
X
Waist to floor lift of various equipment, material, supplies, and when moving patients ranging in weight from 21-75 lbs. up to approximately 20".
Unilateral Waist to Floor Lift
X
Not required.
Waist to Crown Lift, 0-10 lbs.
X
Lifting of various equipment, materials, and supplies ranging in weight from 0-10 lbs. up to approximately 66".
Unilateral Waist to Crown Lift
X
Not required.
Horizontal Lift, 0-20 lbs.
X
Horizontal lifting of various equipment, materials, supplies, and when moving patients ranging in weight from 0-20 lbs. at approximately 18".
Horizontal Lift, 21-75 lbs.
X
Horizontal lifting of various equipment, materials, supplies and when moving patients ranging in weight from 21-75 lbs. at approximately 18".
Carry (Bilateral), 0-25 lbs.
X
Carrying of various equipment, materials, and supplies ranging in weight from 0-25 lbs. approximately 20 ft.
Carry (Unilateral)
X
Not required.
Horizontal Push/Pull, 0-75 lbs. of force
X
Generating up to 75 lbs. of horizontal push/pull force when performing various work related duties (i.e. moving patients).
Vertical Push/Pull
X
Not required.
Reach At or Below Shoulder Level
X
Reaching at or below shoulder level to complete various work related activities. Reaching occurring in all planes.
Reach Above Shoulder
X
Reaching above shoulder level to complete various work related activities. Reaching occurring in all planes. Reaching up to approximately 73".
Elevated Work
X
Not required.
Stooping
X
Sustained forward flexion of the trunk to retrieve various equipment , materials, supplies, and to position oneself to perform various work related duties. Sustained trunk flexion for up to 2.5 minutes.
Bending
X
Repetitive forward flexion of the trunk up to 60 degrees required to retrieve various equipment, materials, supplies and to position oneself for work related duties.
Twisting
X
Repetitive rotation of the trunk and neck to position oneself for various work related duties.
Squatting
X
Repetitive full flexion of the hips and knees required to retrieve various equipment, materials, supplies, and to position oneself for various work related activities.
Sustained Squat/Crouch
X
Not required
Kneeling
X
Repetitive/sustained kneeling required to position oneself for various work related duties. Sustained kneeling for up to 60 seconds.
Crawling
X
Not required.
Climbing Stairs
X
Stairwells between floors with approximately 7 inch steps. Elevators are available for transitioning between floors.
Climbing Ladders
X
Not required.
Walking
X
Ambulating throughout hospital on level indoor surfaces to respond to patients and communicate with co-workers.
Standing
X
Standing on level indoor surfaces while performing various work related duties.
Sitting
X
When performing charting/documentation.
Balancing
X
Average level balance required to complete various work related duties.
Fine Manipulation
X
Average to above average coordination required to complete various work related duties.
Simple Grasping 0-20 lbs. of force
X
Gross hand grasping, with preferred hand of 0-20 lbs. of force to perform various work related duties.
Firm Grasping 21-50 lbs. of force
X
Gross hand grasping, with preferred hand of 21-50 lbs. of force to perform various work related duties.
2-Point Pinch, up to 5 lbs. of force
X
Pinching up to 5 lbs. of force with bilateral hands to complete various work related activities.
3-Point Pinch, up to 5 lbs. of force
X
Pinching up to 5 lbs. of force with bilateral hands complete various work related activities.
Lateral Pinch, up to 5 lbs. of force.
X
Pinching up to 5 lbs. of force with bilateral hands to complete various work related activities.
Repetitive Hand / Wrist Activities
X
Repetitive bilateral finger flexion/extension and wrist flexion/extension/radial deviation/ulnar deviation to complete various work related activities.
Repetitive Keying / Mousing
X
To perform charting/documentation tasks.
Operates Hand Controls
X
Operating controls on various medical related equipment throughout facility.
Operates Foot Controls
X
Not required.
Drives Car / Truck
X
Not required.
Operates Moving Equipment, Forklift/Skid Mover/Other
X
Not required.
C. Talking Required
Ordinary
Loudly or quickly
D. Hearing Required
Ordinary conversation
Ability to hear alarms, radio/phone, and instructions from others
E. Seeing Required
Close Vision
Distance Vision
Color Vision
Peripheral Vision
Depth Perception
Ability to Adjust Focus
F. Elevated Work Required
G. Work in Confined Spaces Required
Environmental Conditions
H. Environmental Factors
Extreme Heat (non-weather)
Extreme Cold (non-weather)
Outdoor weather conditions
Wet and humid conditions
Quiet Noise Moderate Noise Excessive Noise (Potentially = 85 dB TWA)
Vibration
Hazards
  1. Percent of Time Spent in the Performance of Job

Inside: 100%
Outside: 0%
J. Percent of Time Spent in Temperature Extremes in the Performance of Job
NA
K. Atmospheric Conditions to Which Employee is Exposed on a Regular Basis
Fumes:
Gases:
Dusts:
Mists:
Poor Ventilation
Vibration