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Operating Room Assistant Jobs in Pontiac, MI (NOW HIRING)

CONTINGENT OR CIRCULATOR

Novi, MI · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

They will assist in setting up the operating room, patient positioning, prepping the patients, monitoring, documenting, managing, applying dressings and garments, transport to the PACU, and room ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Pontiac, MI?

For Operating Room Assistant jobs in Pontiac, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Room Assistant jobs in Pontiac, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Room Assistant jobs in Pontiac, MI are:

What cities near Pontiac, MI are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs?

Cities near Pontiac, MI with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in Pontiac, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 31% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Circulating/Scrub Registered Nurse - Contingent

Michigan Eye Institute

Rochester, MI

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description
As a Registered Nurse you will assist in the organization and daily function of the operating room in accordance with established federal, state and accreditation standards and facility policies and procedures. Our Registered Nurses assist in overseeing patient care activities in the operating room and maintain a high standard of safety for the patient and other staff members.
Schedule: 2 days per week  (Tuesdays/Thursdays). Start time 5:30--6:00 am. End time varies between 12:30pm and 3:30 pm. No weekends. No holidays.

What you will be doing
  • Ability to be cross trained in all roles within the OR and Pre/Post Op areas 
  • Assess patient's understanding of disease process and need for surgical intervention
  • Perform perioperative teaching to patient
  • Demonstrate appropriate nursing management and intervention in the perioperative period
  • Perform preoperative patient assessment, review surgeon preference card, assess equipment/supply needs, prepare operating room, ensure availability of needed supplies and equipment and proper and safe working order
  • Provide appropriate patient care across the age span
  • Provide safe medication administration
  • Manipulate patient position appropriate to surgical intervention, using positioning aids as needed to avoid impaired circulation, respiration and postoperative pain/discomfort
  • Perform surgical prep per standard of care and surgeon preference
  • Demonstrate appropriate protocol for safe use and handling of equipment
  • Assure all equipment is functioning before use and remove any malfunctioning equipment
  • Anticipate the need for equipment and supplies based on surgeon preference
  • Handle and document specimens per policy
  • Assure emergency equipment and supplies are available at all times
  • Keep surgical suites clean, tidy, free of soiled equipment and supplies, and properly stocked
  • Participate in medical records QAPI
  • Demonstrate a willingness to look at new ideas and work in a changing environment
  • Understand, verbalize and participate in the quality improvement process
  • Maintain active professional relationships with physicians and patients by assessing needs and levels of satisfaction with facility services

What you know
Required
  • Active Michigan RN license
  • BLS certified
Desired:
  • ACLS certified
  • Previous OR experience but not required

What you will receive
  • Competitive Wages
  • Great culture & team environment