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Operating Room Assistant Jobs in Paterson, NJ (NOW HIRING)

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How much do operating room assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room assistant in Paterson, NJ is $19.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.14 and $18.77 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 popular job titles related to Operating Room Assistant jobs in Paterson, NJ?

For Operating Room Assistant jobs in Paterson, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Paterson, NJ are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs?

Cities near Paterson, NJ with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:

Operating Room Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in Paterson, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,395 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Operating Room Technician II, Perioperative Services - SDS/DOC

University Hospital, Newark NJ

Newark, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities

The primary purpose of the Operating Room Technician I position is to be under the direct supervision of the professional nurse. The OR Technician I performs various duties to assist with surgical procedures and related operating room activities. The OR Technician I delivers care as reflected in the Association of Surgical Technologists' Recommended Standards of Practice in a manner that is cost effective without compromising quality of care. The OR Technician I possesses knowledge of the theory and application of sterile and aseptic technique and combines the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tolls and technologist to facilitate a physician's performance of invasive, therapeutic, and diagnostic procedures. The OR Technician I demonstrates competency to scrub for minor/major surgical and endoscopic surgical procedures. An Operating Room Technician I is a certified technician. The OR Technician I participates in departmental quality assessment and improvement activities, meets hospital continuing education and certification requirements, participates in student teaching activities, upholds Patient Care Services philosophy and objectives, demonstrates knowledge of Association of Surgical Technologists' Recommended Standards of Practice, AORN's Age Specific Competency Statements and demonstrates professional growth and development. Measurement of performance behavior is "as observed by Nurse Manager and/or Educational Specialist according to OR policy and procedure" unless otherwise indicated.

Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited Surgical Technician Program. Candidates must be eligible to sit for the LCC-ST certifying examination. One (1) year of related experience preferred. Certification as an Operating Room Technician (LCC-ST) plus one (1) year of related experience preferred. Constant walking, bending, stooping and standing for long periods of time. Pushing and pulling of heavy objects such as gurneys, patient beds and OR beds. Must maintain a neat, clean, professional appearance. Must have understanding, patience, and tact in dealing with physicians and fellow workers. Must pay attention to detail. Must have excellent hand-eye coordination. Must be self-motivated and work in an efficient and effective manner. Must work in air-conditioned environment with temperature of 65-73 degrees and humidity of 45-55%. When assigned to pediatric cases, temperature may be up to 85-90 degrees F. Must wear hospital provided scrub attire while on duty. Potential for cuts, bruises, muscle strains and exposure to contagious disease via and body fluids. Potential for exposure to anesthesia waste gases, ethylene oxide, harsh disinfectants, sterilizing agents, high steam pressure agents and radiation. Willingness to work with employees at various levels of skill, knowledge and abilities.

Credentials required: Certified Surgical Technician certification, CPR.

University Hospital offers a competitive salary & comprehensive benefits package. Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V. For more information, visit  www.uhnj.org/hrweb.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME
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About University Hospital

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This University Hospital Credo expresses the commitment that our employees make to our patients and to their coworkers. Each individual promises to deliver the best outcome for each patient he or she encounters, at every encounter. This pledge encompasses everything from warm and professional customer service to a clear and succinct explanation of a medical diagnosis – and everything in between. We understand that each and every one of our patients deserves and will receive our utmost attention and respect. It is our pleasure to help our patients through their health care experience at University Hospital. It is our privilege to assist them in their journey. That is our commitment to you.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Newark, NJ, US

Year founded

1882

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