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Operating Room Assistant Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Grace Hospital

OR Tech

Morganton, NC · On-site

You will also assist with transporting patients to and from the operating room and PACU. Current CPR certification issued by the American Heart Association (AHA) is required. * Competitive benefit ...

UNC Health Blue Ridge

OR Tech

Morganton, NC · On-site

$8.75/hr

You will also assist with transporting patients to and from the operating room and PACU. Current CPR certification issued by the American Heart Association (AHA) is required. * Competitive benefit ...

UNC Health Blue Ridge

OR Tech

Morganton, NC · On-site

You will also assist with transporting patients to and from the operating room and PACU. Current CPR certification issued by the American Heart Association (AHA) is required. * Competitive benefit ...

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Operating Room Assistant information

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$10

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How much do operating room assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room assistant in Hickory, NC is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.34 and $16.38 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 Hickory, NC?

The most popular types of Operating Room jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Assistant jobs in Hickory, NC?

For Operating Room Assistant jobs in Hickory, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Room Assistant jobs in Hickory, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Room Assistant jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:

Operating Room Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,242 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Registered Nurse - Operating Room

Hickory, NC • On-site

SURGICAL INSTITUTE OF VIEWMONT LLC
See more jobs at SURGICAL INSTITUTE OF VIEWMONT LLCexternal

$32 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

We’re looking for an Operating Room nurse who thrives in a fast-paced, team-driven environment. You’ll help coordinate care and keep surgeries running safely and efficiently—while working alongside colleagues who respect your expertise and support your success.

Our surgery center fosters a collaborative culture where every team member is valued, supported, and encouraged to grow. If you’re looking for a workplace that prioritizes patient care, professional development, and a healthy work-life balance, we’d love to have you join us.

Position Summary

The OR nurse serves as the vital connection between the surgical team and the rest of the facility during procedures. This role involves coordinating patient care, maintaining safety and sterility, and supporting the surgical team in delivering exceptional outcomes.

Our center operates on a teamwork model. Team members may be cross-trained in other clinical areas and are expected to assist in various duties as staffing and patient needs evolve.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Promote the mission, vision, and values of the organization.
  • Follow Center policies, procedures, and professional nursing standards.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to Universal Precautions.
  • Serve as the patient’s advocate and safety monitor throughout each procedure.
  • Ensure adherence to established protocols, procedures, and surgical schedules.
  • Assess and monitor the quality of care delivered in the operating room.
  • Oversee and maintain operating room equipment and supply inventory.
  • Facilitate operative procedures through alert observation and accurate documentation.
  • Perform patient assessments, record vital signs, and report abnormalities as appropriate.
  • Conduct pre- and post-operative education and coordinate care plans.
  • Safely prepare, document, and administer medications as ordered.
  • Support and supervise nonprofessional personnel as needed.
  • Communicate effectively with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and all surgical staff.
  • Participate in ongoing quality assurance and professional development initiatives.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Graduate of an accredited school of nursing
  • Current Registered Nurse (RN) licensure in the state of employment
  • Minimum of two (2) years of operating room experience preferred
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification required
  • Certified Nurse – Operating Room (CNOR) certification preferred
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification preferred

What We Offer

  • No nights, weekends, or on-call requirements
  • Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Disability and life insurance
  • A variety of ancillary benefits supporting your health and financial well-being
  • A positive, team-based environment focused on collaboration, safety, and professional respect
 

If you’re a detail-oriented OR Circulator who values teamwork, patient safety, and excellence in care, we invite you to apply. Join a surgery center that takes pride not only in its outcomes, but also in the people who make them possible.

Apply