ER Secretary - CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) in Boone, North Carolina at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System

ER Secretary - CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)

ED Secretary - CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Emergency Department | Non-Exempt

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As an ED Secretary - CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) at UNC Health Appalachian, you’ll play an important dual role in supporting both patient care and the day-to-day operations of the Emergency Department. You’ll provide hands-on CNA support while also assisting with the communication, coordination, and clerical functions that help keep the department running efficiently.

This position is ideal for someone who is organized, compassionate, adaptable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where priorities can change quickly. You’ll work closely with nurses, physicians, and other members of the healthcare team to support a safe, efficient, and patient-centered experience.

Compensation: Starting at $18.05 per hour, based on education and experience
Shift Differentials: Available in addition to base pay
Status: Non-Exempt
Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; Career Pathways Program; wellness incentives through the Love Your Life program; Employee-to-Employee (E2E) support program; childcare assistance is available; and additional employee discounts.

Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new hire orientation.

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

What You’ll Do as an ED Secretary - CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)

Patient Care & Clinical Support

• Perform Certified Nursing Assistant duties under the direction and supervision of licensed nursing staff.
• Assist with patient care, comfort, mobility, and other needs within the CNA scope of practice.
• Obtain, document, and communicate patient information as assigned.
• Observe patients and promptly report changes in condition or concerns to the appropriate licensed clinical staff.
• Assist the healthcare team during emergency situations and respond appropriately to rapidly changing patient needs.
• Support a safe, compassionate, and patient-centered environment throughout the Emergency Department.

Department & Administrative Support

• Provide clerical and administrative support to facilitate efficient Emergency Department operations.
• Assist with communication among patients, families, nurses, physicians, and other members of the healthcare team.
• Support accurate and timely documentation and information flow within the department.
• Respond professionally and courteously to telephone calls, patient and family requests, and other departmental communications.
• Help maintain an organized work environment and support department workflow in a fast-paced setting.

Collaboration & Professional Practice

• Maintain compliance with organizational standards, policies, and CNA scope of practice.
• Communicate effectively and respectfully with patients, families, coworkers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
• Maintain composure, professionalism, and sound judgment during high-stress or emergency situations.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment through teamwork, reliability, and respectful interactions.
• Demonstrate a commitment to UNC Health Appalachian’s Mission, Vision, and Values through daily interactions and responsibilities.

Qualifications

Minimum Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) required.

Experience

• Previous CNA experience preferred but not required.
• Previous healthcare, emergency department, or clerical experience preferred.

Licensure & Certifications

• Active Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) listing in the State of North Carolina.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire.
• Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) training required within one (1) year of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of CNA scope of practice and basic patient care procedures.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective and courteous communication with patients, families, staff, and physicians.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
• Strong customer service skills and commitment to patient dignity and confidentiality.
• Ability to resolve conflict and maintain composure in high-stress or emergency situations.
• Understanding of the continuum of patient care and the importance of timely communication.
• Proficiency with basic computer systems and electronic medical records (EMR).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, position, push, pull, and transfer patients or equipment weighing 50+ pounds.
• Manual dexterity and mobility necessary for hands-on patient care and clerical responsibilities.
• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, and walking.
• Frequent bending, squatting, twisting, and turning.
• Near visual acuity for detailed patient care, documentation, and computer-based tasks.

Work Environment

• Regular exposure to blood-borne pathogens and infectious materials.
• Frequent exposure to electrical/mechanical equipment and environmental hazards.
• Fast-paced Emergency Department environment with frequent interruptions and changing priorities.
• Requires flexibility for irregular hours including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical stamina for long shifts, frequent patient mobilization, and a combination of clinical and administrative responsibilities.

About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian is the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprising three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian is dedicated to promoting health, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.”

About UNC Health
UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses, and more than 500 clinics, along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine. We exist to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve while advancing medical education and research.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects diverse backgrounds and perspectives, enhancing our ability to provide outstanding care.

We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to a fair, inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening. For questions or accommodations, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.