ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operating Room Assistant Jobs in Chattanooga, TN

Host Healthcare

RN - OR

Dalton, GA · On-site

$890/wk

Responds in a timely manner and has been able to assist with SO much. Definitely will continue traveling and use Kat as my recruiter. 10/10 recommend!" Tiana - Registered Nurse Has traveled with Host ...

Foundation MedAesthetics

Surgical Tech

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Prepare and organize the operating room equipment, instruments, and supplies as required for ... Take care of specimens, prepare, check, and monitor medications, and assist with dressings * Set up ...

TRS Healthcare

Travel First Assist Technician

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

OR - Operating Room Surgical Tech First Assist About TRS Healthcare TRS Healthcare has been a leader in the healthcare staffing industry for over 25 years, providing exceptional career opportunities ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperating Room JobsOperating Room Assistant JobsOperating Room Assistant Jobs in Chattanooga, TN

Operating Room Assistant information

See Chattanooga, TN salary details

$10

$17

$36

How much do operating room assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room assistant in Chattanooga, TN is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.42 and $16.49 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 Chattanooga, TN?

The most popular types of Operating Room jobs in Chattanooga, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Assistant jobs in Chattanooga, TN?

For Operating Room Assistant jobs in Chattanooga, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Room Assistant jobs in Chattanooga, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Room Assistant jobs in Chattanooga, TN are:

What cities near Chattanooga, TN are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chattanooga, TN with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:

Operating Room Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in Chattanooga, TN 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, with an average salary of $35,487 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Operating Room

Parkridge Medical Center - healthtrust

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Certified First Assist - Operating Room

Shift Details: Shift 07:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Shifts Per Week: 5

Scheduled Hours: 40

Job Order Details: Start Date 08/03/2026 End Date 11/02/2026 Duration 13 Week(s)

Client Details: City Chattanooga State TN

Apply