Surgical Support Technician - Operating Room

Find your calling at Mercy!

Under the direction of the perioperative leader, assists in the individualized care of the patient to achieve the patient's highest level of wellness. Works cooperatively with others as part of a team; recognizes the importance of group goals. Performs designated clinical procedures and non-clinical support tasks essential to providing care to the patient.

Position Details:

Surgical Support Technician

Position Summary

The Surgical Support Associate is responsible for providing support services within the surgical services department to ensure a safe, efficient, and patient-centered environment. This role assists the surgical team through preparation of rooms and equipment, transportation of patients and supplies, maintenance of cleanliness and organization, and support of daily operational activities. The Surgical Support Associate works collaboratively with physicians, nurses, surgical technologists, and other healthcare professionals to promote exceptional patient care and positive surgical outcomes.

Essential Functions

Patient Care & Surgical Support

• Assists with patient transport to and from surgical and procedural areas while maintaining patient dignity, safety, and comfort.
• Prepares operating rooms and procedure areas for scheduled cases.
• Assists with positioning equipment, stretchers, beds, and specialty devices as directed.
• Ensures necessary supplies, equipment, and instrumentation are available and delivered to designated areas.
• Responds promptly to requests from surgical staff to support efficient patient care and case flow.
• Assists with turnover of operating rooms between procedures according to established protocols.

Department Operations

• Maintains cleanliness and organization of operating rooms, storage areas, and support spaces.
• Stocks and replenishes medical supplies, linens, equipment, and other materials needed for surgical procedures.
• Assists with inventory management and communicates supply shortages to appropriate personnel.
• Transports specimens, equipment, and supplies according to departmental procedures.
• Performs assigned support duties to facilitate efficient department operations and patient throughput.

Safety & Risk Management

• Follows organizational policies and procedures related to safety, confidentiality, patient rights, and regulatory requirements.

• Demonstrates knowledge of and adheres to infection prevention and control standards.

• Assesses safety needs and contributes to a safe environment through practices such as:

• Fall prevention

• Patient identification verification

• Safe patient handling

• Restraint management

• Department-specific safety procedures

• Participates in quality improvement initiatives designed to enhance patient care and departmental performance.

• Maintains a clean, safe, and organized work environment.

Technology & Communication

• Utilizes department-specific technology and communication tools to perform daily responsibilities.
• Accurately documents and communicates information as required.
• Uses equipment such as computers, pagers, zone phones, mobile communication devices, and other technology systems effectively.
• Demonstrates effective communication and teamwork with all members of the healthcare team.

Required Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Preferred Education

• Additional healthcare-related education or training preferred.

Experience

• No experience required.
• One (1) year of clinical experience within a hospital setting preferred.

Licensure

• None required.

Certifications

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required or must be obtained within 90 days of hire.
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification may be required based on location of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and respond to changing patient care needs.
• Knowledge of infection prevention and patient safety practices preferred.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to push, pull, and/or lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods during each shift.
• Ability to grip, reach, bend, kneel, twist, and squat while performing job duties.
• Ability to safely transport patients, supplies, and equipment throughout the facility.

Working Conditions

• Frequent exposure to hospital and surgical services environments.
• May be exposed to infectious diseases, bodily fluids, and hazardous materials while following appropriate safety precautions and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
• Requires flexibility to meet the operational needs of the department.

Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.