Position Overview:
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) performs essential support functions under the direction of licensed professional nurses. This role involves preparing patients, equipment, and supplies for procedures, obtaining and recording accurate patient information, and providing personal care including feeding, bathing, shaving, changing, and bed-making. The CNA supports nursing staff while acting compassionately and respectfully toward patients and their families, reinforcing education provided by professional staff or physicians.

Compensation starts at $17.87 per hour, commensurate with education and experience. This position is eligible for shift differentials on top of base pay.

The Perks and Benefits:

· Collaborative environment: Join a team of dedicated healthcare professionals committed to high-quality patient care.

· Professional development: Access ongoing training and career advancement opportunities, including tuition reimbursement and participation in our Career Pathways Program.

· Impactful work: Play a key role in supporting patient care and comfort, contributing directly to positive patient experiences.

· Location perks: Enjoy the beauty of Boone, North Carolina, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, plus great shopping, dining, and cultural attractions in Boone, Blowing Rock, and Linville.

· Top-tier community: Boone features a highly rated public school system and Appalachian State University, recognized by Forbes, Southern Living, and Niche as a premier place to live.

· Compensation: Starting at $17.87/hour with shift differentials. Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment.

· Employee wellness program – Love Your Life: Participate in health screenings, wellness activities, and incentives to support your well-being.

· Employee to Employee (E2E) program: A voluntary donation program providing financial help to coworkers facing unexpected hardships.

· Additional perks: Discounts on Dollywood, Biltmore, Tweetsie Railroad, and more (subject to change).

Key Responsibilities:

· Assist licensed nursing staff by preparing patients, equipment, and supplies for procedures.
· Obtain, record, and report accurate patient information including vital signs.
· Provide personal care to patients including feeding, bathing, shaving, changing, and bed-making.
· Reinforce patient and family education as instructed by professional staff or physicians.
· Monitor patient condition and promptly report any changes to nursing staff.
· Maintain compliance with Appalachian Regional Healthcare System standards and scope of practice.
· Demonstrate compassion, respect, and professionalism in all patient interactions.

Position Requirements:

Minimum Education:
· High School Diploma required.
· Successful completion of an accredited CNA program licensed in North Carolina.

Experience:
· Previous CNA experience preferred but not required.

Required Registration/License/Certification:
· Certified Nurse Assistant licensed in the State of North Carolina.
· Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association required at hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
· Knowledge of CNA scope and experience in patient care.
· Effective, courteous communication with patients, families, staff, and physicians.
· Conflict resolution skills and integrity in high-stress situations.
· Familiarity with the continuum of care and ability to provide exceptional customer service.
· Computer proficiency including data entry and use of electronic medical records (EMR).

Physical Demands:
· Ability to lift, position, push, pull, and transfer patients/equipment > 50 lbs.
· Manual dexterity and mobility required.
· Extended periods of sitting, standing, and walking.
· Ability to bend, squat, twist, and turn as needed.
· Near visual acuity for close work (20 inches or less).

Working Conditions:
· Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
· Frequent exposure to electrical/mechanical equipment, odorous chemicals, specimens, and other environmental hazards.
· Must be able to work irregular hours including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
· Physical stamina for long periods of standing, walking, sitting, and patient mobilization.
· Exposure to vibration, cramped spaces, and repetitive manual tasks.

About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises 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 in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and “making life better.”

About UNC Health
UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliate of the University of North Carolina system, with 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses, and more than 500 clinics plus the UNC School of Medicine’s clinical programs. UNC Health is committed to improving the health of North Carolinians and supports the university’s teaching mission. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided over $400 million in uncompensated or charity care. For more information, visit unchealth.org.

UNC Health Appalachian values diversity and inclusion and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to a fair, respectful hiring process. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

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

For accommodations or additional information, contact recruitment@apprhs.org.