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Operating Room Nurse Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

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Operating Room Nurse information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$16

$46

$83

How much do operating room nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating room nurse in Rochester, MN is $46.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.39 and $49.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an operating room nurse do in an operating room?

An operating room nurse, also known as a perioperative nurse, prepares the operating room, sterilizes equipment, and assists surgeons during procedures. They monitor patient vital signs, ensure sterile techniques are maintained, and provide post-operative care to promote patient safety and recovery.

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 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 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.

Do operating room nurses get paid more?

Operating room nurses, also known as perioperative nurses, typically earn higher salaries than many other nursing specialties due to the specialized skills, certifications, and the high-stakes environment they work in. Factors such as experience, location, and healthcare facility can influence their pay, with those working in hospitals or with advanced certifications often earning more. Overall, their compensation reflects the demanding nature and technical expertise required for surgical care.

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.

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 the most commonly searched types of Operating Room Nurse jobs in Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Operating Room Nurse jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Nurse jobs in Rochester, MN? For Operating Room Nurse jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Operating Room Nurse jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Operating Room Nurse job openings:
Infographic showing various Operating Room Nurse job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,133 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Registered Nurse-Enterprise Travel Team-Operating Room-RN

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 698 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description


The registered nurse (RN) in the Internal Travel Team at Mayo Clinic will rotate across Mayo Clinic sites in Arizona, Florida, Minnesota and Wisconsin as determined by patient care needs.
Our OR RNs support our Operating Room settings across our MCHS hospitals in Minnesota and Wisconsin. This position requires a commitment to patient safety/satisfaction as well as the ability to work collaboratively with a wide array of other healthcare professionals. Additional information can be found on our Travel RN website.
The registered nurse (RN) is accountable for the coordination of nursing care, including direct patient care, patient/family education and transitions of care. The RN supports professional nursing practice across practice settings and across the continuum of care to meet the needs of the patient and family. The RN will function within the Mayo Clinic Nursing Professional Practice Model, which includes accountability for planning, implementing, evaluating and communicating all phases of nursing care for assigned patients. The ANA Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice provide a basis for the practice of the RN. The RN provides leadership through activities such as preceptor role, informal and formal leadership roles, and quality improvement efforts. The RN delegates patient care according to skill level, experience, patient acuity, fiscal accountability and availability of resources. The RN possesses excellent communication skills; is skillful in mentoring and teaching; and may participate on committees or projects. The registered nurse (RN) in the Mayo Clinic Department of Nursing Central Staffing Pool will provide contingency staffing support across Mayo Clinic nursing sites as determined by staffing and patient care needs. As a Mayo Clinic employee, the float pool RN actualizes Mayo Clinic core values and culture. The RN will travel on a routine basis to various locations. Flexibility and adaptability are essential in work assignments and work schedules.
For New Graduate Nurses: Please apply through the Nurse Residency Program posting, which is specifically designed to support New Graduate RNs. Within the Nurse Residency application process, you may indicate work units and specialties of interest. If selected to move forward, you will meet with a Nursing Placement Coordinator who will help you explore Mayo Clinic opportunities that are best aligned with your current and future professional goals. Together, we'll identify a work area that provides an excellent foundation for your nursing career.
This role is eligible for TN sponsorship. Successful sponsorship will require state licensure and completion of the VisaScreen or equivalent certification.
Qualifications
Graduate of a nursing program, as recognized by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). One year of RN experience required.
All entry-level associate degree registered nurses with a RN start date of April 1, 2020, and after must provide documented evidence of program completion of the baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program within five years from the last day of the month of the RN start date.
All entry-level associate degree registered nurses with a RN start date prior to April 1, 2020 must provide documented evidence of program completion of the baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program as stipulated by the degree requirement program in place at time of hire.
1 year OR/intraoperative RN experience required.
External traveler or float pool experience preferred. Mayo Clinic cross-site experience preferred. Excellent communication skills (verbal and written). Experience working in a team environment. Computer skills required, prior experience with electronic medical record systems preferred. Ability to work flexible hours, which may include days, evenings, nights, holidays, and weekends and on-call. Ability to adapt to unpredictable situations within the work setting. Demonstrated leadership, effective communicator, and excellent critical thinking skills.
Internal applicants are required to attach their three most recent performance appraisals.
License and Certification (Must obtain prior to start date):
Current RN license by applicable state requirements.
BLS (Basic Life Support) must be valid for 90 days post start date; acceptable certifications include: American Heart Association (AHA)/ Heartcode® BLS, Military Training Network, Red Cross (CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and Health Care Providers).
Additional state licensure(s) and/or specialty certification/training as required by the work area.
About Us
Why Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.
Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

About the Team
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is.
Equal Opportunity
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law". Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919