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Operating Room Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Caesars Entertainment

GUEST ROOM ATTENDANT

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

... operating procedures. Guest Room Attendants ensure cleanliness and orderliness in guest rooms to ... Takes initiatives, shows ownership and goes above and beyond to assist guests with their needs

New

Ceasars Entertainment

GUEST ROOM ATTENDANT

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

... operating procedures. Guest Room Attendants ensure cleanliness and orderliness in guest rooms to ... Takes initiatives, shows ownership and goes above and beyond to assist guests with their needs

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Reinbeck, IA

$17.25 - $22/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Oelwein, IA

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Grundy Center, IA

$16.25 - $21/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Shell Rock, IA

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Waverly, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Dunkerton, IA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

U.S. Navy

Medical Assistant

Traer, IA

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

... operating room technician and assist in surgery; administer preventive care and medications including immunizations and IVs; conduct physical exams and assist in diagnosing and treating diseases and ...

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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 Waterloo, IA?

For Operating Room Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Room Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Room Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Operating Room Assistant jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Operating Room Assistant job openings:

Operating Room Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Room Assistant job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

RN Operating Room

Macpower Digital Assets Edge

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

  • Perform scrub functions including the selection and handling of instruments and supplies used during procedure.
  • Perform circulating functions including monitoring, recording and communicating patient condition and managing overall nursing care of patient before, during and after procedure.
  • Directly assist operating physician with surgical tasks including hemostasis, suturing and wound exposure as well as patient positioning.
  • Prepare operating rooms and surgical instruments and equipment for use.

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