Surgical Technician (Non-Certified) in Boone, North Carolina at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System

Surgical Technician (Surgical Tech)

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Operating Room | Non-Exempt

Why You'll Love Working Here

As a Surgical Technician at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll play a vital role in supporting surgical teams and ensuring operating rooms are fully prepared for procedures. Your work directly contributes to patient safety, surgical efficiency, and positive patient outcomes.

Working in a fast-paced surgical environment, you'll assist surgeons, nurses, and anesthesia providers while maintaining sterile technique and ensuring the operating room remains organized and fully equipped.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina offers exceptional outdoor recreation, vibrant community living, and outstanding quality of life.

• Compensation: Starting at $23.42/hour or higher, based on education, experience, certification, and internal equity.

• Schedule: Shifts Vary; PRN

• Applicable Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; HSA; supplemental insurance options; student loan refinancing; 403(b) retirement plan with employer match; paid parental leave; tuition reimbursement; Career Pathways Program; Love Your Life wellness incentives; Employee-to-Employee (E2E) assistance program; and employee discounts to regional attractions.

• Benefits Eligibility: Applicable benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new hire orientation.

• Status: Non-Exempt

What You'll Do as a Surgical Technician

Surgical Procedure Support

• Prepare and maintain the operating room to ensure it is sterile and ready for procedures.

• Assist surgeons and nurses during procedures by passing instruments and necessary supplies.

• Maintain sterile technique throughout the surgical process to prevent contamination.

Patient & Equipment Preparation

• Assist with positioning and draping patients prior to surgical procedures.

• Ensure surgical instruments and equipment are properly sterilized and organized.

• Participate in cleaning and sterilizing instruments following procedures.

Collaboration & Efficiency

• Work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other surgical team members to support patient care.

• Respond quickly and efficiently to requests from the surgical team during procedures.

• Support efficient operating room turnover between cases.

What We're Looking For

Qualifications/Licenses

Education

• Associate's Degree preferred.

• Formal training or certification as a Surgical Technologist required.

Experience

• Two (2) years of previous experience as a Surgical Technician or related medical role preferred.

Required Licensure & Certifications

• Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) required or two (2) years of Surgical Technician experience.

• Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at the time of hire.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of surgical procedures, instruments, and sterile technique.

• Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.

• Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure surgical environments.

• Strong teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Physical & Work Environment

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift, position, push, pull, and transfer items weighing 50+ pounds.

• Prolonged standing, walking, and movement during surgical procedures.

• Frequent bending, squatting, twisting, and reaching.

• Near visual acuity for detailed tasks and instrument identification.

Working Conditions

• Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and surgical environments.

• Frequent exposure to electrical/mechanical medical equipment and chemicals.

• Requires flexibility for days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency situations.

• Extended standing and walking during procedures (8+ hours per shift).

• Possible exposure to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation including X-ray equipment.

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Access continuing education opportunities, tuition reimbursement, Career Pathways programs, and professional development resources designed to support your long-term success.

• Impactful Work: Play a critical role in surgical patient care by helping ensure safe, efficient procedures and exceptional patient outcomes.

• Community & Lifestyle: Enjoy life in Boone, North Carolina, with access to hiking, skiing, mountain biking, fishing, local arts, dining, and year-round outdoor recreation.

• Top-Tier Community: Boone is consistently recognized as one of North Carolina's most desirable mountain communities and is home to Appalachian State University.

• Meaningful Benefits: Take advantage of retirement savings with employer match, paid parental leave, tuition assistance, wellness incentives, employee assistance resources, and applicable healthcare coverage.

• Inclusive Culture: Work alongside skilled surgical professionals in a collaborative environment committed to excellence, respect, teamwork, and patient-centered care.

Ready to Make a Difference in Surgical Care?

Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian as a Surgical Technician and help deliver exceptional perioperative care while supporting positive patient outcomes throughout the High Country.

About UNC Health Appalachian

UNC Health Appalachian is a premier healthcare provider in the High Country, operating three hospitals, 13 medical practices, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation.

We are committed to improving the health and quality of life for residents of the region while fulfilling our mission of "making life better."

About UNC Health

As part of the University of North Carolina system, UNC Health includes 14 hospitals and more than 500 clinics dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of North Carolinians.

UNC Health exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve while supporting the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina School of Medicine.

For more information, visit unchealth.org.

Equal Opportunity Employer

UNC Health Appalachian is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences and strive to foster a workplace where every team member feels respected and valued.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.