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Operating Room Assistant Jobs in Downey, CA (NOW HIRING)

Veracity

RNFA - Operating Room

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

RNFA - Operating Room San Pedro, California Full Time This position provides surgical first assistant, scrub, and/or circulating nurse services in the operating room during surgical procedures, and ...

Veracity

RNFA - Operating Room

San Pedro, CA · On-site

RNFA - Operating Room San Pedro, California Full Time This position provides surgical first assistant, scrub, and/or circulating nurse services in the operating room during surgical procedures, and ...

Mission Hospital

RN - Operating Room

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$1.3K/wk

Intraoperative Nursing Care: Assist in preparing the operating room (OR) environment, ensuring sterile conditions and proper functioning of surgical equipment. Collaborate with surgical team members ...

CommonSpirit Health

RN Surgery

Glendale, CA · On-site

One California As our surgical services nurse at Glendale Memorial Medical Center you will prepare patients for surgical procedures and assist in the operating room to ensure they receive excellent ...

City of Hope

Clinical Nurse III - Operating Room

Duarte, CA · On-site

$39 - $53.25/hr

As a successful candidate, you will: * Assist in surgical procedures related to cancer treatment, including tumor removal, organ resection, and reconstructive surgery. * Ensure the operating room is ...

City of Hope

Clinical Nurse III - Operating Room

Duarte, CA · On-site

$39.25 - $53.50/hr

As a successful candidate, you will: * Assist in surgical procedures related to cancer treatment, including tumor removal, organ resection, and reconstructive surgery. * Ensure the operating room is ...

City of Hope

Clinical Nurse III - Operating Room

Duarte, CA · On-site

$39 - $53.25/hr

As a successful candidate, you will: * Assist in surgical procedures related to cancer treatment, including tumor removal, organ resection, and reconstructive surgery. * Ensure the operating room is ...

City of Hope

Clinical Nurse III - Operating Room

Duarte, CA

$39 - $53.25/hr

As a successful candidate, you will: * Assist in surgical procedures related to cancer treatment, including tumor removal, organ resection, and reconstructive surgery. * Ensure the operating room is ...

City of Hope

Clinical Nurse III - Operating Room

Duarte, CA

$39 - $53.25/hr

As a successful candidate, you will: * Assist in surgical procedures related to cancer treatment, including tumor removal, organ resection, and reconstructive surgery. * Ensure the operating room is ...

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Operating Room Assistant information

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$12

$19

$41

How much do operating room assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room assistant in Downey, CA is $19.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.17 and $18.81 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 Downey, CA?

The most popular types of Operating Room jobs in Downey, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Assistant jobs in Downey, CA?

For Operating Room Assistant jobs in Downey, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Room Assistant jobs in Downey, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Room Assistant jobs in Downey, CA are:

What cities near Downey, CA are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs?

Cities near Downey, CA with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:

Operating Room Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in Downey, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,479 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

RNFA - Operating Room

Veracity

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

RNFA - Operating Room
San Pedro, California
Full Time
This position provides surgical first assistant, scrub, and/or circulating nurse services in the operating room during surgical procedures, and assists surgical team as needed in any other capacity according to established procedures. Participates in the daily activities of the department as an active team member. Demonstrates proficiency in delivering care to assigned age specific patient population (e.g., infants, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, pediatrics), and participates in related continuing education.
Required Qualifications:
Coursework/Training: Completion of RNFA course
California Registered Nurse License upon hire
National Provider BLS - American Heart Association upon hire
2 years of experience
Recent RN clinical experience in the operating room
Skills and Certifications
Coursework/Training: Completion of RNFA course
California Registered Nurse License upon hire
National Provider BLS - American Heart Association upon hire
2 years of experience
Recent RN clinical experience in the operating room

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