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Patient Observation Tech Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Cincinnati Children's

PCA, Anesthesia Imaging

Burnet, TX · On-site

$17.49 - $20.99/hr

May assist with 1 on 1 patient observation as needed. * Communication - Demonstrates the Cincinnati Children's CARES behaviors in all interactions with patients, families, visitors and co-workers by ...

Star Nursing

Radiology - Nuc Med Tech

Austin, TX · On-site

Patient Safety: Explains the procedure thoroughly to put patients at ease. Protects patients and ... KEY SUCCESS FACTORS Ability to observe changes in the medical condition of patients and effectively ...

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Patient Observation Tech information

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$12

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How much do patient observation tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observation tech in Austin, TX is $21.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patient observation tech?

A Patient Observation Tech, also known as a patient sitter or safety attendant, is a healthcare worker responsible for closely monitoring patients who may be at risk of harming themselves or others. They work under the supervision of nursing staff to ensure patient safety, often providing one-on-one observation in hospitals or care facilities. Their duties may include alerting medical staff to changes in patient behavior, assisting with basic needs, and helping maintain a safe environment. This role is vital for preventing accidents, falls, or incidents involving vulnerable patients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a patient observation tech, and why are they important?

A Patient Observation Tech needs a high school diploma or equivalent, basic patient care knowledge, and the ability to monitor patient safety and behavior effectively. Familiarity with hospital protocols, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and communication devices is important. Strong attention to detail, patience, and effective interpersonal skills help in observing patients and reporting concerns promptly. These skills are essential to ensure patient safety and provide timely support to clinical teams in healthcare settings.

What are some common challenges faced by patient observation techs, and how are they typically addressed?

Patient Observation Techs often encounter challenges such as managing multiple patients with varying needs, maintaining constant vigilance during long shifts, and effectively communicating any changes in patient behavior to the medical team. To address these challenges, techs receive thorough training on observation protocols, work closely with nurses and other healthcare professionals, and utilize clear documentation practices. Support from colleagues and regular debriefings also help techs manage the emotional demands of the role.

What is the difference between Patient Observation Tech vs Patient Care Assistant?

AspectPatient Observation TechPatient Care Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, CPR certification, training in patient monitoringHigh school diploma, CPR certification, basic healthcare training
Work EnvironmentHospitals, psychiatric facilities, long-term careHospitals, nursing homes, clinics
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare facilities focusing on patient safety and monitoringDirect patient care, assisting nurses and doctors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in patient monitoring and safetyAssisting with daily patient needs and support

The Patient Observation Tech primarily focuses on monitoring and ensuring patient safety, often in psychiatric or hospital settings, requiring specific training in observation techniques. The Patient Care Assistant provides broader direct patient support, assisting with daily activities and basic healthcare needs. Both roles are vital in healthcare but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How do you become a patient observation tech?

To become a patient observation tech, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete relevant training or certification, such as CPR or first aid. On-the-job training is common, and strong communication and observation skills are essential for monitoring patients effectively.

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Patient Observation Tech jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Patient Observation Tech job openings:

Patient Observation Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Observation Tech job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,022 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Nurse Tech, Complex Pulmonary & Endocrinology - 12 hours/week, Evening/Night

Cincinnati Children's

Burnet, TX • On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 1,064 rated hospitals

Job description

Primary Location

Location A

Department

A5N

Shift

2-3 Shift (United States of America)

Schedule

Part time

Weekly Hours

12

FTE

0.3

Employee Status

Regular


JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Plan of Care-Supervise and assist patients with activities of daily living. Supervise developmentally appropriate activities. Provides 1 on 1 patient observation as needed. Offers assistance to co-workers after completion of own duties. Use crisis control techniques and assist in de-escalation of patients and visitors. Assist with patient transport as requested. Provide approved care of assigned patients and assist in implementation of interventions under supervision of RN. The Nursing Tech may only perform patient care under the direct supervision of an RN or when accompanied by an experienced PCA until the completion of orientation and competency validation.

  • Communication-Demonstrates the Cincinnati Children's CARES behaviors in all interactions with patients, families, visitors and co-workers by actively participating as a frontline example of extraordinary customer service and satisfaction. Reports present status or changes in patient condition on an ongoing basis and in change of shift summary. Completes timely documentation of information in the patient medical record. Seek information and guidance when needed. Discusses concerns of work situation with Director or designee.

  • Environment-Ensures that within the division, all areas are organized and present a safe, accessible, effective and efficient environment for patients, families, visitors, and employees. Ensure that work areas are organized and present a safe, accessible, effective and efficient environment for employees, patients and families. Comply with Infection Control policies and procedures. Adhere to safety procedures appropriate to children's ages and development levels.

To provide 1:1 patient care under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent

About Us

At Cincinnati Children's, we come to work with one goal: to make children's health better. We believe in a holistic team approach, both in caring for patients and their families, and in advancing science and discovery. We strive to do better and find energy and inspiration in our shared purpose. If you want to be the best you can be, you can do it at Cincinnati Children's.

Cincinnati Children's is:

  • Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as atop 10 best Children's Hospitals in the nation for more than 15 years

  • Consistently among the top 3 Children's Hospitals for National Institutes of Health (NIH)Funding

  • Recognized as one of America's Best Large Employers (2025), America's Best Employers for New Grads (2025)

  • One of the nation'sAmerica's Most Innovative Companiesas noted by Fortune

  • Consistently certified as great place to work

  • A Leading Disability Employeras noted by theNational Organization on Disability

  • Magnet designated for the fourth consecutive time by theAmerican Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)

We Embrace Innovation-Together. We believe in empowering our teams with the tools that help us work smarter and care better. That's why we support the responsible use of artificial intelligence. By encouraging innovation, we're creating space for new ideas, better outcomes, and a stronger future-for all of us.

Comprehensive job description provided upon request.

Cincinnati Children's is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an environment of dignity and respect for all our employees, patients, and families. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, genetic information, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. EEO/Veteran/Disability

What Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center logo

About Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, located in Cincinnati, OH, US, is a premier pediatric hospital renowned for its exceptional clinical services, research programs, and medical education. The healthcare institution, founded in 1883, holds a sterling reputation in the industry, with a mission to improve child health and transform delivery of care through fully integrated, globally recognized research, education and innovation. As one of the oldest and most distinguished pediatric hospitals in the United States, Cincinnati Children's continues to offer a broad range of high-quality, compassionate care to children in the community and around the globe. As a testament to its dedication, it has consistently been ranked among the top three US pediatric hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1883

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