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Operating Room Assistant Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

Dining Room Attendant

Allentown, PA

$12.50 - $16/hr

Parkhurst Dining is a family-owned and operated company that provides culinary, dining and catering ... Empty glass racks must be taken to dish room. 5. Assist our guests, as needed, in a friendly and ...

Medical Assistant

Trexlertown, PA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

... LPN, RN, or provider. Assists with administrative, clinical, and clerical duties which could ... Specialized Diploma as a Medical Assistant * Ability to accept and adapt to constant change within ...

Medical Assistant

Trexlertown, PA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

... LPN, RN, or provider. Assists with administrative, clinical, and clerical duties which could ... Specialized Diploma as a Medical Assistant * Ability to accept and adapt to constant change within ...

Showing results 41-60

Operating Room Assistant information

See Reading, PA salary details

$11

$18

$39

How much do operating room assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room assistant in Reading, PA is $18.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.47 and $17.88 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 Reading, PA?

The most popular types of Operating Room jobs in Reading, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Assistant jobs in Reading, PA?

For Operating Room Assistant jobs in Reading, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Room Assistant jobs in Reading, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Room Assistant jobs in Reading, PA are:

What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in Reading, PA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,471 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Surgical First Assist - (1099 Contractor) Ortho, Neuro, GYN, General & Robotics - PA/NP- Reading, PA

PA • On-site

MPOWERHealth
Health Care and Social Assistance • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Overview
MPOWERHealth is looking for a highly skilled Surgical First Assist to join our growing team in Reading, PA as a 1099 Contractor. If you're a dedicated OR professional who thrives in a fast-paced surgical environment, we want to hear from you!
In this dynamic role, you'll play a vital part in delivering excellent patient care and supporting successful surgical outcomes.
What We're Looking For:
  • Strong operating room experience
  • One of the following credentials: PA, NP, CSFA, LSA, or CSA
  • A team-oriented mindset and commitment to clinical excellence

Responsibilities
What You'll Do:
Be the Surgeon's Right Hand
Step into a critical role as the Surgical First Assist, providing expert support throughout procedures and ensuring everything runs seamlessly in the OR.
Own the Pre-Op Experience
Set the stage for success by confirming cases, connecting with patients, explaining procedures, and coordinating details with the surgical team.
Deliver Excellence in the OR
From patient positioning to maintaining a sterile field, you'll anticipate the surgeon's needs and collaborate closely with the OR team to ensure optimal outcomes.
Support Recovery & Continuity of Care
Assist with safe patient transfer, deliver detailed PACU handoffs, and ensure accurate, timely documentation after every procedure.
Drive Improvement & Innovation
Get involved beyond the OR-contribute to training, education, and process improvement initiatives that elevate clinical and operational performance.
Grow Your Skills & Expertise
Expand your capabilities by learning new surgical specialties and continuously advancing your skill set.
Qualifications
Requirements:
  • Must have at least 2 years of surgical assisting experience.
  • Must have experience assisting in GYN, and Orthopedics.
  • Spine experience is a plus.

Education/Training:
  • Must have excellent computer skills, specifically MS Office, and EMR.
  • Must be a graduate of an Accredited Surgical Assist program.
  • Must possess current state license where practicing.

Physical Requirements:
Able to perform all essential duties with or without accommodations, including but not limited to:
  • Ability to lift, sit, stand, or squat
  • Constantly seeing, hearing, and speaking
  • Frequent lifting to 20+ lbs. in addition to bending, reaching, standing, walking, and kneeling.

Preferred Skills:
  • Strong interpersonal skills with ability to adapt to different personalities and needs.
  • Customer service-oriented mindset.
  • Able to function independently, autonomously, and confidently.

It is the policy of MPOWERHealth not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status.
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