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Operating Room Nurse Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Acuity Eye Group

Operating Room Nurse

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Operating Room Registered Nurse Assesses, plans, implements and evaluates care for all age patients in operating room. Provides care within nursing standards of ...

Acuity Eye Group

Operating Room Nurse

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Operating Room Registered Nurse Assesses, plans, implements and evaluates care for all age patients in operating room. Provides care within nursing standards of practice and the policies of the ...

Acuity Eye Group

Operating Room Nurse

Santa Ana, CA

$45 - $60/hr

Description Operating Room Registered Nurse Assesses, plans, implements and evaluates care for all age patients in operating room. Provides care within nursing standards of practice and the policies ...

RIGHT TIME NOW TALENT

Operating Room Nurse

Los Angeles, CA

$66.57 - $76.90/hr

... nursing measures and therapeutic objectives and evaluating outcomes. Performs scrub and circulating duties n the Cardiovascular Lab and Operating Room Circulates, assists, and operates equipment for ...

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All JobsOperating Room Nurse JobsOperating Room Nurse Jobs in California

Operating Room Nurse information

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$16

$44

$81

How much do operating room nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room nurse in California is $44.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.34 and $48.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating room nurse?

Operating Room Nurses, also known as perioperative nurses or scrub nurses, are registered nurses who specialize in caring for patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. They play a critical role in preparing the operating room, assisting surgeons during operations, and monitoring patients’ vital signs throughout surgery. Operating Room Nurses ensure that the surgical environment is sterile, supplies are ready, and patient safety is maintained at all times. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other surgical team members. Their expertise is essential to the smooth and safe completion of surgical procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operating room nurse?

To thrive as an Operating Room Nurse, you need strong clinical skills in perioperative care, knowledge of surgical procedures, and an active RN license, often with additional certification like CNOR. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterile technique, and patient monitoring systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and effective collaboration with surgical teams.

What does an operating room nurse do?

Operating room nurses assist surgeons in the operating room and care for the patients before and after their surgical procedures. The operating room nurse may work with a team that includes a scrub nurse and a circulating nurse; depending on the procedure, all are considered operating room nurses. Their duties involve handling patient care and preparing the surgical tools for use. The operating room nurse monitors the patient before and after surgery for signs of distress or problems that require immediate attention, and also explains to the patient and family members what they need to do post-surgery.

What are some common challenges faced by operating room nurses, and how can they be managed?

Operating Room Nurses often face challenges such as working in high-pressure situations, adapting to rapidly changing surgical schedules, and maintaining strict adherence to sterile techniques. Managing these challenges involves strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under stress. Many OR nurses find that building solid teamwork with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and surgical technologists helps them adapt quickly and provide the best patient care. Ongoing professional development and mentorship can also support nurses in overcoming obstacles and advancing in their careers.

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

AspectOperating Room NurseSurgical Technologist
CredentialsRN license, OR-specific certificationsPost-secondary education, certification (e.g., CST)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical facilities
Roles & ResponsibilitiesPatient care, monitoring, assisting during surgeryPreparing operating rooms, passing instruments

Operating Room Nurses and Surgical Technologists both work in surgical settings, but OR Nurses provide direct patient care and monitor patients during surgery, while Surgical Technologists focus on preparing the surgical environment and assisting the surgical team. Both roles require specialized certifications and are essential in the operating room environment.

How much do operating room nurses earn?

Operating room nurses, also known as perioperative nurses, typically earn a median annual salary of around $75,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the healthcare facility, geographic region, and whether the nurse has specialized skills or advanced certifications such as CNOR.
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Operating Room Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Room Nurse job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,335 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Operating Room Nurse

Newport Center Surgical

Newport Beach, CA • On-site

$50 - $63/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Multi-Specialty Surgery Center in Newport Beach seeking experienced Operating Room Nurses to join our team. Candidates will be responsible for patient care before and during surgery. We perform orthopedic, GYN, GI and plastic surgery procedures. We have a very competitive compensation package, to include full paid health, dental, vision and 401K along with bonuses.
Job Details: 
  • Must have at least one year of operating room experience. 
  • Mon thru Fri.   Our staff work Straight 8 hour shifts with NO lunch deduction.
  • Paid Catered Lunch.

Job Type: Full-time.
Pay: $49.00 - $60.00 per hour.