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Operating Room Tech Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

CVOR

Portland, OR

$600 - $1K/day

A CVOR CT Tech (Computed Tomography Technologist) is a specialized medical imaging professional supporting cardiovascular and operating room environments by producing detailed cross-sectional images ...

You should be comfortable operating at multiple levels: one day you're writing configuration ... Partner with facilities and vendors on A/V systems, conference room technology, and infrastructure ...

You should be comfortable operating at multiple levels: one day you're writing configuration ... Partner with facilities and vendors on A/V systems, conference room technology, and infrastructure ...

You should be comfortable operating at multiple levels: one day you're writing configuration ... Partner with facilities and vendors on A/V systems, conference room technology, and infrastructure ...

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Operating Room Tech information

See Portland, OR salary details

$673

$1.8K

$2.6K

How much do operating room tech jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average weekly pay for operating room tech in Portland, OR is $1,798.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,438.46 and $2,151.92 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an Operating Room Tech typically collaborate with surgeons and nurses during surgical procedures?

Operating Room Techs, also known as surgical technologists, play a crucial role in the surgical team by ensuring all necessary instruments and supplies are sterile and readily available. They work closely with surgeons by passing instruments, holding retractors, and anticipating the needs of the procedure. Collaboration with nurses is also essential, as techs assist in preparing the operating room and maintaining a sterile field throughout the surgery. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as Operating Room Techs help ensure surgeries proceed smoothly and safely for patients.

What do operating room technicians do?

Operating room technicians, also known as surgical technologists, prepare operating rooms by sterilizing equipment, setting up surgical instruments, and ensuring a sterile environment. They assist surgeons and nurses during procedures, passing instruments and maintaining supplies, often working in fast-paced hospital settings and requiring certification. Their role is essential for smooth surgical operations and patient safety.

How much do operating room technicians make in the US?

Operating room technicians, also known as surgical technologists, earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 in the US. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, certifications, and work setting, with some earning over $70,000 annually. They typically work in hospitals, surgical centers, or clinics and need certification to enhance job prospects.

What kind of surgical tech gets paid the most?

In the operating room, surgical technologists specializing in cardiovascular or neurosurgery tend to earn higher salaries due to the complexity and critical nature of these procedures. Additionally, those with advanced certifications, extensive experience, or working in high-demand healthcare facilities often receive higher pay. Salary can also vary based on geographic location and shift differentials.

What are Operating Room Techs?

Operating Room Techs, also known as surgical technologists or scrub techs, are healthcare professionals who assist surgeons, nurses, and other members of the surgical team during operations. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and ensuring all necessary equipment is available. During procedures, they help by passing instruments and maintaining a sterile environment. Their work is essential for the safety and efficiency of surgical operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operating Room Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Room Tech, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and anatomy, typically gained through a surgical technology program and certification (such as CST). Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterilization equipment, and electronic health record systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and effective collaboration with surgeons and nurses during operations.

Is surgical tech harder than RN?

Operating Room Techs, or surgical technologists, typically require less education and training than registered nurses (RNs), and their roles focus on preparing the operating room and assisting during surgeries. RNs have broader responsibilities, including patient care, medication administration, and post-operative monitoring, which often involve more complex decision-making and a wider skill set. Overall, RNs generally face a more demanding workload and higher level of responsibility than surgical techs.

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

AspectOperating Room TechSurgical Technologist
CertificationsCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) often preferredCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) typically required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgery centers, clinics
Job DutiesAssisting in surgeries, preparing operating roomsPreparing OR, passing instruments, assisting during procedures
Industry UsageCommonly used term in hospitals and healthcare settingsOften used interchangeably with Operating Room Tech

Both Operating Room Tech and Surgical Technologist roles involve assisting in surgeries and preparing operating rooms. The terms are often used interchangeably, with Surgical Technologist being the more formal credential. Certification requirements are similar, and both work in hospital and surgical center environments. Understanding these similarities can help in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Surgical Services Technologist (Surgical Tech)

Surgical Services Technologist (Surgical Tech)

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

$35.07 - $47.42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 536 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview
South Operating Room (SOR) is a large 25-bed OR primarily an adult inpatient operating room with a small volume of outpatient procedures including: Cardiac/ Thoracic, General Surgery/Minimally Invasive/ Colorectal/Bariatric, Gynecology, Oral Maxillofacial, Neuro/neuro spine, Orthopedic/orthopedic spine, Otolaryngology, Plastics, Transplant, Urology, Vascular, Robotic (Urology/GYN/Oral), and Trauma. Surgical procedures on infants and children less than 18 years of age are also performed if the procedure requires specialized equipment found only at this location.
The ST performs the delegated duties that ensure that the OR environment is safe, that equipment is cleaned and functions appropriately, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety. The ST possesses expertise in the application of sterile and aseptic technique; he/she combines the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tools and technologies to safely facilitate invasive and/or diagnostic procedures. The ST has the ability to manage stressful/unusual situations in a positive manner, and embraces the OHSU Core Competencies (Accountability, Collaboration, Communication, Diversity, Integrity, Respect, Service Orientation, Teamwork) into his/her practice.
Function/Duties of Position
Surgical Technician Role Expectations:
  • Demonstrate Proficiency in clinical skills/knowledge specific to Perioperative Services.
    • Demonstrates a working knowledge of sterile technique.
    • Proficient in the scrub role in the surgical specialties.
    • Provides fundamental components of patient comfort, safety, privacy and respect within the perioperative setting.
    • Identifies and develops areas of expertise within the surgical specialties.
    • Demonstrates working knowledge of equipment, instrumentation, and supplies.
  • Performs effectively in emergent situations.
    • Recognizes and effectively responds as directed in emergency situations.
    • CPR certified..
    • Responds appropriately as directed in a code situation.
  • Manages time effectively.
    • Accomplishes caseload assignments in a timely manner.Completes turnover of the operating room between cases before or within the established time lines.
  • Uses unassigned time productively

Communication, Teamwork, and Leadership:
  • Demonstrates effective communication skills, which convey a positive and supportive message.
  • Collaborates with surgical team members (nursing, anesthesia and surgeon) on specific issues or concerns.
  • Seeks input and consultation.
  • Reports incidents and errors verbally and in writing in accordance with established procedures.
  • Ensures confidentiality is maintained in all forms of communication.
  • Demonstrates flexibility in response to unexpected changes in workload and assignment.
  • Incorporates conflict management skills in the resolution of issues.
  • Participates in projects and committees as requested/assigned.
  • Works collaboratively with OHSU personnel, maintaining communication that facilitates teamwork.
  • Conveys a positive image of peers, colleagues, and OHSU to patients, families, the public and other health care team members.

Teaching and Education:
  • Participates in the education and development of others.
  • Participates in orientation and teaching of area specific skills.
  • Serves as a resource for other staff members, students, and residents.
  • Promotes staff skill development as appropriate

Professional Development and Knowledge Base Expectations:
  • Participates in educational programs and research that contributes to the improvement of skills.
  • Assumes responsibility for development of own skills.
  • Recognizes and accepts the need for guidance and assistance.
  • Completes all required educational programs and activities within established time lines.
  • Demonstrates practice consistent with current research/standards/policies.
  • Meets and maintains minimum qualifications for the position.

Organizational Participation Responsibilities:
  • Incorporates OHSU service excellence/customer service philosophy into all aspects of care provided to patients and families and in interactions within the work setting.
  • Participates in Continuous Quality Improvement activities, incorporating principles into practice.
  • Demonstrates ability to access departmental and organizational policies and procedures.
  • Complies with organizational policies and procedures.
  • Supports the missions of OHSU Perioperative Services.
  • Complies with the OHSU Code of Conduct.
  • Demonstrates fiscally responsible resource utilization and promotes cost containment as appropriate for a surgical unit.
  • Performs staff member requirements as outlined in the compliance section of the Core Competencies.

Required Qualifications
BLS from AHA required. New hires will be enrolled and required to complete during orientation.
New Employees as of 9/1/2015
Graduated from a Nationally-Accredited organization approved by the Oregon Health Authority as of date of hire; AND
Hold and maintain a national Surgical Technologist Certification by NBSTSA (National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting) as of date of hire.
New provision of House Bill 4106 amending ORS 676.875 (New Employees effective March 23, 2022):
Completion of a surgical assistant or surgical technologist certification, includingbut not limited to a certified ophthalmic surgicalassisting credential issued by the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology or its successor organization, that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies
OR
Completed a Surgical Technologist training program in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Public Health Service of the USA AND must complete 16 hours of continuing education every 2 years.
OR
Did not graduate from an accredited school must and can provide documentation showing that he/she they practiced as a Surgical Tech during at least two of the three years immediately preceding January 1, 2017 AND must complete 16 hours of continuing education every 2 years.
Additional Details
Requires prioritization of multiple projects, activities, and assignments. May be exposed to excessive
auditory and visual stimulation. May be exposed to body fluids, tissue, and infectious processes. Subject to
computer work for several hours, as needed. Able to utilize all patient care equipment with work area.
Employee Benefits:
  • Free parking at night
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance - Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents, and $25K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee
  • Several retirement plans (401a/403b and pension plans)
  • Vacation - up to 200 hours per year, depending on length of service
  • Sick Leave - up to 96 hours per year
  • 8 paid holidays per year
  • Substantial tri-met and c-tram discounts
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • FSA/HSA options
  • On-site gym
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Career Center

Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887