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

Pediatrics OR - Operating Room * Discipline: RN * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift ... As a Pediatric OR Travel Nurse, you should be prepared to perform the following tasks: * Assist ...

RN First Assist

Tustin, CA · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

Current Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) certification. * Successful completion of an RN First Assistant (RNFA) education program that includes a supervised clinical component. * Current ...

RN First Assist

Tustin, CA · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

Current Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) certification. * Successful completion of an RN First Assistant (RNFA) education program that includes a supervised clinical component. * Current ...

RN First Assist

Tustin, CA · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

Current Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) certification. * Successful completion of an RN First Assistant (RNFA) education program that includes a supervised clinical component. * Current ...

Travel We're looking for Pediatric Operating Room RNs for an immediate travel nurse opening in ... As a Pediatric OR Travel Nurse, you should be prepared to perform the following tasks: * Assist ...

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Operating Room Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$19

$41

How much do operating room assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room assistant in Riverside, CA is $19.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.07 and $18.68 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 Riverside, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,188 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Registered Nurse II/III MC/CHC - Operating Room

Riverside, CA • On-site

Riverside University Health System
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

$95K - $166K/yr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Riverside University Health System rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Salary : $95,160.00 - $166,899.20 Annually
Location : Moreno Valley
Job Type: Regular
Job Number: 26-74047-26
Department: RUHS-Medical Center
Division: Operating Room
Opening Date: 09/02/2026
Closing Date: 9/9/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
For questions regarding this position, please contact the Recruiter listed in the Supplemental Information section.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The County of Riverside's Riverside University Health System (RUHS) Medical Center is seeking a Registered Nurse II/III MC/CHC for the Operating Room Department.
The Riverside University Health System (RUHS) - Medical Center's ten-suite Operating Room provides 24-hour service for specialties including: Endoscopy, Ear/Nose/Throat (ENT), General and Vascular Surgery, Neurosurgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ophthalmology, Organ Procurement through One Legacy, Orthopedics, Plastics, Urology, and Spine Surgery. The Same Day Surgery Unit supports optimum patient outcomes following surgical intervention across all specialties. RUHS brings together the latest technology and resources to provide high standards of care for patients of all ages.
The Registered Nurse will be responsible for scrubbing and circulating a variety of surgical cases, including Trauma, Robotics, Orthopedics, General Surgery, OB/GYN, Plastics and other services.
The most competitive candidates will have at least three (3) years of experience as a Registered Nurse (RN), with Operating Room experience highly preferred.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
  • A valid license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of California.
  • A valid and current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification issued by the American Heart Association.

Work Schedule: 4/10, Hours: 6:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.
On-Call Requirement: On-call coverage is required during the week, weekends, and holidays.
Salary Range
Registered Nurse II MC/CHC: $45.7530 - $70.8141 per hour
Registered Nurse III MC/CHC: $53.1735 - $80.2448 per hour
Additional Differential:
  • Specialty Care: $2.50/hour

The Specialty Care differential will be applied following completion of required specialty training, attainment of all necessary certifications, and departmental determination that the employee is authorized to work independently.
Meet the Team!
At Riverside University Health System Medical Center, nursing is more than a job, it's an opportunity to make a real difference in a vibrant and diverse community. Nationally recognized for its forward-thinking and innovative approach to patient care, RUHS Medical Center is also a proud teaching hospital and one of the top employers in the region.
Our 439-bed facility is a designated Level I Trauma Center, Primary Stroke Center, and home to the region's only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Here, you'll gain valuable experience across a wide range of specialties, including trauma care, stroke, pediatrics, and critical care.
We are committed to your professional growth, offering continuous education, training, and career development programs in a collaborative, supportive, and rewarding environment. Whether you're an experienced nurse or just starting your career, RUHS Medical Center provides unparalleled opportunities to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact.
Could you see yourself making a difference here?
Discover more about RUHS Medical Center at
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
• Assess, plan, organize and provide nursing care to assigned patients in accordance with physician instructions; make preliminary observations of patients and prepare patients for, medical treatment.
• Assist physicians in administering treatments and in performing medical examinations, diagnostic tests and surgical operations.
• Administer prescribed treatment and medications, including dispensing, as ordered to patients; chart treatment of patients; record and report significant changes in condition and general progress of patients.
• Counsel and advise patients, families and significant others regarding special medical problems and/or proper healthcare methods; prepare and maintain concise and complete records and reports.
• Instruct patients in carrying out physician's orders; transcribe physician's orders to working records.
• Provide orientation and training to new staff, residents, medical students, Regional Occupational Program (ROP) participants and nursing students.
• Participate in quality assurance reviews; act as a team leader or relief charge nurse.
• Assign and monitor the work of subordinate nursing personnel; participate in committee activities.
• Triage patients by reviewing admission charts and merging patients into the appropriate patient assignment or clinic flow when appropriate.
• Testify in court as to client's mental and physical condition.
• Coordinate and monitor patients through the hospitalization process utilizing physicians, primary care nurses and third-party payors to maintain quality care and fiscal responsibility.
• Review the post hospital care plan with the patient,/family establishing a contact regarding timeframes and responsibilities; follow care plan through patient discharge.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Registered Nurse II MC/CHC
Education: Successful completion of the education required to obtain a valid license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of California. (A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in nursing or a health-related field may be required for some positions.)
Experience: Equivalent to one year of full-time experience as a Registered Nurse in an acute care hospital, clinic outpatient setting, or healthcare agency program. Experience gained as an Interim Permit Nurse may be credited toward meeting the required experience. Evaluations and references must show proficiency of practice as a Registered Nurse.
Knowledge of: Current principles, techniques and procedures used in professional nursing; medical terminology and patient care routine appropriate to clinical setting; medical instruments and equipment; the uses and effects of medicines and narcotics; community resources available to provide patient care and follow-up; federal, state and local laws and regulations governing professional aspects of nursing; identification of potential discharge needs; payor source documentation requirements and governmental regulations affecting reimbursement.
Ability to: Perform the full range of nursing duties and responsibilities in a patient care setting; plan and organize nursing plans for patients; prepare and maintain concise and complete records and reports; establish and maintain effective working relationships with physicians, patients, and fellow employees; assist in the instruction of entry-level nurses and ancillary personnel; evaluate the medical records of hospital admissions; make recommendations regarding continued stay necessity; identify discharge needs.
Registered Nurse III MC/CHC:
Education: Successful completion of the education required to obtain a valid license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of California. (A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in nursing or a health-related field may be required for some positions.)
Experience: Three (3) years of full time experience as a Registered Nurse in an acute care facility. (A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in nursing or a national certification in a nursing specialty may be considered as a substitution for one year of the required experience. A Master's degree from an accredited college or university in nursing may be considered as a substitution for two years of the required experience.)
Knowledge of: Current principles, techniques and procedures used in professional nursing; medical terminology and patient care routine appropriate to clinical setting; medical instruments and equipment; the uses and effects of medicines and narcotics; community resources available to provide patient care and follow-up; federal, state and local laws and regulations governing professional aspects of nursing; identification of potential discharge needs; payor source documentation requirements and governmental regulations affecting reimbursement.
Ability to: Perform the full range of nursing duties and responsibilities in a patient care setting; plan and organize nursing plans for patients; prepare and maintain concise and complete records and reports; establish and maintain effective working relationships with physicians, patients and fellow employees; secure the cooperation of employees to work effectively together; assist in the instruction of entry-level nurses and ancillary personnel; keep abreast of developments in area of nursing specialization; evaluate the medical records of hospital admissions; make recommendations regarding continued stay necessity; identify discharge needs.
Other Requirements:
License: Must possess and maintain a current, valid license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of California.
Certificate: Possession of a valid Basic Life Support (BLS) ceritification issued by the American Heart Association for professional healthcare providers.
Possession of a valid California Driver's License may be required.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Application Status
How to confirm your application was received or check on the status of your application, log-in to , click on your name in the upper right corner, and click on "Applications & Status."
Sign Up for Job Alerts
Go to , click on "Careers," click on "County Job Openings," and click on "Subscribe to Job Alerts" icon.
For Questions Regarding this Recruitment,
Please contact Lisette Jimenez at 951-955-5561 or Please allow 1-2 business days for a response to general inquiries.
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Veteran's Preference
The County has a Veterans Preference Policy applicable to new hires. To qualify, attach the required documents to your job application. Documents include a copy of your (or your spouse's) Member-4 Form DD-214 indicating dates of service. For spousal preference, and as applicable, the following documents: a copy of your marriage certificate, spouse's death certificate, a letter of spouse's disability and/or letter of service-related death (if available) from the U.S. Veteran's Administration. For privacy reasons, it is recommended that you remove your social security information from the document(s). A Human Resources Representative will review the materials and determine if you qualify for veterans' preference. For complete details and documentation requirements, please review the Veterans Preference Policy, C-3 here:
Reasonable Accommodations
The County of Riverside is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Qualified individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process should contact the recruiter for the position noted above. For additional information and/or to obtain the appropriate form for requesting a reasonable accommodation, please visit the Disability Access Office web page located at:
Work Location and Telework
In-person attendance is the standard work expectation for County of Riverside assignments. Certain assignments may be eligible for a hybrid telework schedule; however, telework arrangements are subject to management approval, operational needs, and/or may be modified or discontinued at any time. Employees who telework are expected to be able to report to their assigned worksite on short notice or as operational needs require. Unless otherwise specified for a particular position, employees are expected to reside in California following appointment. Limited exceptions may apply. Applicants should contact the assigned recruiter for additional information regarding work location expectations, telework eligibility, and residency requirements.
Proof of Education
If using education to qualify or when requested by the recruiter, upload a copy of any license(s), official/unofficial transcript(s), degrees, and/or related employment documents to your NeoGov account at the time of application and before the closing date. Official or unofficial transcripts will be accepted.
If your education was completed outside of the United States, you will need to provide a copy of your Foreign Education Equivalency evaluation from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services () or Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. ().
Work Authorization Requirement
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application. The County of Riverside does not participate in visa sponsorship programs, including H1-B visas, and will not provide sponsorship for any employment-based visas.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The County of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the County of Riverside to provide equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition (cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, or denial of medical and family care leave, or any other non-job-related factors.
Pre-Employment
All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment requirements including a criminal background investigation, which involves fingerprinting. (A felony or misdemeanor conviction may disqualify the applicant from County employment). A pre-employment physical examination and background check may be required.
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