ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operating Room Nurse Training Program Jobs in Iowa

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperating Room Nurse Training Program JobsOperating Room Nurse Training Program Jobs in Iowa

Operating Room Nurse Training Program information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$42

$77

How much do operating room nurse training program jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room nurse training program in Iowa is $42.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.65 and $45.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating room nurse training program?

An Operating Room Nurse Training Program is a specialized educational course designed to prepare registered nurses (RNs) for work in the surgical environment. These programs typically cover topics such as sterile techniques, surgical procedures, patient safety, and the use of operating room equipment. Training may include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience in a real operating room setting. Graduates are equipped with the skills required to assist surgeons and care for patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. Completing such a program can help nurses transition into the perioperative nursing specialty.

What can I expect during the first few weeks of an operating room nurse training program?

During the initial weeks of an Operating Room Nurse Training Program, you can expect a structured blend of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. You'll learn about sterile techniques, surgical instruments, procedures, and OR protocols while shadowing experienced nurses. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first due to the fast-paced environment and the need to quickly master technical skills, but ongoing mentorship and teamwork are integral to your success. Open communication with preceptors and proactive engagement in learning opportunities will help you build confidence as you transition into the OR nursing role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an operating room nurse training program, and why are they important?

Success in an Operating Room Nurse Training Program requires a solid background in nursing fundamentals, attention to detail, and current RN licensure. Familiarity with surgical instruments, aseptic techniques, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain composed under pressure are crucial soft skills for this environment. These competencies are vital to ensure patient safety, effective surgical team collaboration, and optimal outcomes in high-stakes situations.

What is the difference between Operating Room Nurse Training Program vs Surgical Technologist Training Program?

AspectOperating Room Nurse Training ProgramSurgical Technologist Training Program
CredentialsRN license, nursing certificationCertified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgery centers, clinics
Industry UsagePrimarily in nursing and patient careAssisting in surgical procedures

The Operating Room Nurse Training Program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive patient care before, during, and after surgery, requiring RN licensure. In contrast, the Surgical Technologist Training Program focuses on assisting surgeons during procedures, requiring CST certification. Both roles work in surgical environments but differ in responsibilities and credentials.

Are operating room nurses in demand?

Operating room nurses are in high demand due to the ongoing need for surgical procedures and healthcare services. They require specialized training, certifications, and experience, and employment opportunities are generally stable across hospitals and surgical centers.

Where do operating room nurses make the most money?

Operating room nurses tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for healthcare professionals, such as metropolitan areas or states with advanced medical facilities. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized surgical units can also increase earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Nurse Training Program jobs in Iowa?

For Operating Room Nurse Training Program jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Room Nurse Training Program jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Room Nurse Training Program jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Operating Room Nurse Training Program jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Operating Room Nurse Training Program job openings:

Operating Room Nurse Training Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Room Nurse Training Program job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,829 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

RN - OR

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

UnityPoint Health- St. Luke's Hospital
Hospitals • 10K+ employees
Learn more about UnityPoint Health- St. Luke's Hospitalexternal

Other

Posted 24 days ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 366 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Operating Room Nurse

Operating room nurses provide direct and individualized nursing care to patients based on best-in-class operating procedures, nursing disciplines, and patient safety protocols. They coordinate and consult with other healthcare professionals to assess, plan, implement and evaluate both minor and major operations.

Location: Cedar Rapids, IA

What UnityPoint Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

UnityPoint Health logo

About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

View All UnityPoint Health Jobs

Apply