Perioperative Expansion Project (Surgical Services)

University of Utah Health is a leading provider of surgical services. We offer a wide range of procedures from elective to non-elective surgeries, as well as highly specialized and delicate surgeries.

Our team of operating room nurses, surgical technicians, and sterile processing technicians is committed to creating a safe environment for our patients and tending to their well-being. These positions also offer opportunities for career advancement and ongoing education.

Our surgical services department is ranked as “high-performing” by U.S. News and World Report in multiple surgical procedures, including:

  • Back Surgery (Spinal Fusion)
  • Colon, Cancer Surgery
  • Knee Replacement
  • Lung Cancer Surgery
  • Ovarian Cancer Surgery
  • Prostate Cancer Surgery
  • Pulmonology & Lung Surgery
  • Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
  • Uterine Cancer Surgery

Join Our Surgical Services Team

Operating Room Nurses

Our operating room (OR) nurses play a pivotal role during surgical procedures, including:

  • Ensuring the safety and well-being of our patients in the operating room. They advocate for the rights and dignity of patients, ensuring they are treated with respect, compassion, and sensitivity throughout their surgical experience. The nurse monitors the patient's condition, ensures their comfort, and addresses any concerns that may arise during surgery, advocating for a positive outcome.
  • Coordination with the surgical team to ensure all necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies are available and ready for use. The nurses' meticulous attention to detail helps streamline surgical procedures and minimize downtime between cases.
  • Communication and Collaboration. They closely collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, surgical technologists, and other health care professionals to ensure seamless coordination throughout the surgical process. Clear communication guarantees alignment on patient care and safety.
  • Adherence to Standards and Protocols. OR nurses enforce infection control measures, aseptic techniques, and regulatory guidelines to minimize surgical site infections and complications.
  • Offering emotional support and empathy to patients and their families during the stressful and emotionally challenging experience of surgery. They provide reassurance and comfort during moments of anxiety or uncertainty, helping alleviate patient anxiety and build trust and confidence in the surgical team.

Our OR nursing team has specialized knowledge of various surgical procedures and is skilled in adapting to the unique needs of each surgical specialty. From orthopedics to neurosurgery, they are adept at assisting surgeons and surgical teams across a wide range of medical disciplines. They also engage in continuous learning and professional development to stay up-to-date on advancements in surgical techniques, technology, and best practices.

Working as an OR nurse offers a rewarding career path filled with opportunities for personal and professional growth. From the satisfaction of helping patients through life-changing surgeries to the camaraderie of working alongside dedicated health care professionals, it's a role that provides fulfillment and purpose in making a difference in people's lives.

Apply today!

Surgical Technician

Our surgical technicians, also known as surgical technologists, are a critical part of the larger health care system. They play a crucial role in ensuring the success and safety of surgical procedures, directly impacting the well-being of patients. Their work is meaningful, as it contributes to saving lives and improving patient health. Our techs:

  • Collaborate closely with surgeons, nurses, and other health care professionals to ensure a seamless surgical experience for patients.
  • Are responsible for preparing operating rooms for surgery, including setting up sterile instruments, equipment, and supplies, as well as ensuring all necessary items are available and functioning properly.
  • Maintain a sterile environment in the operating room to prevent infections and other complications. Paying careful attention to detail and adhering to protocols helps ensure patient safety.
  • Assist the surgical team by passing instruments, holding retractors, and managing supplies as needed. Quick responses and proficiency contribute to the smooth flow of the operation.
  • Help with cleaning and sterilizing the operating room post-surgery, prepare instruments for reprocessing, and ensure that all equipment is ready for future procedures.

Surgical technicians work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and must communicate effectively with other team members. Their ability to work well under pressure and adapt quickly is essential.

Many surgical technicians receive ongoing training and certifications to advance their skills and specialize in areas such as neurosurgery, orthopedics, or cardiovascular surgery. This career offers opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth.

Apply today!

Sterile Processing Technician

Our Sterile Processing team is an essential part of our Surgical Services team, with a direct impact on patient care while not directly working with patients. Without the detailed work of this team, surgeries could not be performed. In this role, the technicians:

  • Become familiar with surgical instruments and their uses.
  • Acquire knowledge and expertise in all steps of disinfection and sterilization techniques for surgical instruments.
  • Manage current needs in the operating rooms while preparing for the next day.
  • Ensure that instruments are of the highest quality and available for use when needed.

This position offers a fantastic opportunity to begin a career in health care, with the following benefits:

  • On-the-job training at no cost
  • Short training period of 1-3 months
  • Opportunities for rapid advancement
  • No prior experience required
  • Ability to observe procedures and surgeries
  • Learn about other departments and how the hospital operates

This is a fast-paced, dynamic work environment where each day brings new tasks and challenges. After training, employees enjoy a high level of independence while still being part of an exceptional team.

Apply today!

WHY WORK AT U OF U HEALTH?

  • Benefits for full-time and part-time employees including :
    • Health and dental insurance starting day one
    • Family-friendly work-life balance and generous PTO
    • Continued education opportunities with tuition reduction for full-time employees, and a new student debt repayment program
    • A robust retirement plan
    • Paid parental leave
  • Respectful and diverse workplace
  • Start a career with room for advancement and growth through career ladders, training, and continued education
  • Be part of an essential team that supports the surgical services departments

Questions?

If you have questions about these job opportunities, please email our Talent Acquisitions team at careers@hsc.utah.edu.