Operating Room Technician Jobs in Chicago, IL
Operating Room Technician jobs in Chicago are concentrated in the Medical District and Near North Side, with additional demand in Streeterville and Hyde Park, across academic medical centers, large health systems, and specialty surgical facilities. Employers hiring right now include UChicago Medicine, Sinai Chicago, and Orison Solutions. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Showing 5 of 18+ Operating Room Technician jobs
The In-House Registry Nurse Specialty is specially trained to practice nursing during the Perioperative period. The dimensions of practice range from preoperative assessment to intra operative intervention to postoperative evaluation. It is practice designed to meet a patient’s needs through the nursing process, ensuring continuity of care during the surgical experience.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Day of Surgery
- Performs in scrub or circulating role.
- Checks the following day’s assignments so as to be prepared in anatomy, the surgeon’s preference, and sequence of procedure. If special instrumentation or prosthetics are requested, ensure they have arrived and familiar with usage
- Attends report at scheduled time
- Damp dusts operating room surfaces
- Checks supplies against preference cards, obtaining any missing items
- Ensures that required blood products are readily available in the Blood Bank
- Opens sterile supplies with scrub staff
- Performs initial baseline counts according to John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital (JSH) Policy and Procedures
- Checks spotlights, connects suctions, and electrical equipment
- Greets patients in Pre-Op area and receives hand-off communication from Pre-Op nurse; refers the Pre-Op admission policy; assures patients are in operating room fifteen (15) minutes before scheduled start of surgery
- Checks patient documentation preoperatively to ensure that chart is complete with: all appropriate consents signed, proper patient identification and verified with Pre-Op during hand off; Labs/X-ray, etc. (refers to policy)
- Assesses the physical and psychosocial needs of the patient; provides physical and emotional support, as needed; explains routines and procedures to patients, as needed
- Assists patients in moving to the O.R. table; requests assistance if necessary for moving and/or positioning; secures safety belt
- Keeps noise level to a minimum
- Assures surgeon and assistant (if applicable) are present in the operating room before anesthesia begins; remains next to the patient during anesthesia induction; assists anesthesiologist, as needed
- Performs pre-induction and pre-incision time out, checks with surgical team and anesthesia staff
- Assesses patient skin integrity on arrival to and prior to transfer from O.R.
- Assists in positioning of the patient
- Properly places grounding pad; refer to Electrosurgical Policy
- Performs skin prep per departmental policy
- Assists in gowning surgeons, assistants, etc.
- Connects suction and electrosurgical unit
- Pours medications on back table: ensures labels on all solutions and medications are to be checked by both scrub and circulating staff ensures expiration date is reviewed by both the scrub and circulating staff; ensures Anesthesiologist is notified whenever Xylocaine, Cocaine, Neosynephrine, or other similar drugs are on the field
- Maintains an ongoing assessment of supplies needed on the surgical field vs. supplies in the room
- Ensures instrument, needle, and sponge counts are performed in the event of permanent relief of either the scrub or circulating staff
- Contacts Holding area to call for the next scheduled case prior to closure of case in progress
- Notifies Control Desk if room is running late and may delay the next scheduled surgery
- Documents all supplies, implants and medications used during procedure
- Remains in the operating room at all times unless properly relieved by another Registered Nurse (if case in progress mandates leaving OR to secure additional supplies, notifies scrub staff prior to exiting the room)
- Prepares tape for dressings, gurney, and suction towards the end of procedure
- Accurately performs and documents final sponge, needs, and instrument count with scrub staff according to JSH Policy
- Cleans patient, applies dressings, and connects drains
- Assists anesthesiologist (i.e., extubation)
- Completes and documents all nursing interventions performed in the operating room
- Transfers patient to gurney
End of Procedure
- Cleans and stocks room
- Ensures all sutures, and supplies are returned to their proper place
- Returns furniture to its designated area
- Returns equipment to its designated storage area
- Ensures specimen(s) and slips have been transported to, and placed in, the specimen refrigerator
- Assists in collecting equipment for workroom
- Assists in cleaning of operating room
- Completes documentation and submits to Main Operating Room Office
- Signs out of Operating Room
- Documents time next case is scheduled in the room
- Performs special weekly assignments, as needed
Clinical Work Activities
- Supports the John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital, Department of Nursing Philosophy and goals
- Assumes responsibility of individual clinical competence and continuing education
- Participates in educational activities to increase competency
- Acts as a role model/preceptor for staff, orientees, and students in collaboration with other nursing staff and the clinical instructor
- Participates in staff nurse meetings, unit conferences, patient care conferences, etc., to coordinate nursing and medical management of patient care
- Seeks involvement in committees and professional organizations
- Provides care that demonstrates ethical beliefs and respect for patient rights
- Incorporates current research into nursing practice
- Supports research efforts conducted within the division/department
- Contributes to the efficient management operation of the Perioperative area
- Licensed as a Registered Professional Nurse in the State of Illinois (Must provide proof at time of interview)
- Two (2) years of Operating Room experience within the past six years is required
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (Must provide proof at time of interview if already obtained)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelors of Science in Nursing from an accredited college or university is preferred
- Two (2) years of Cardiothoracic OR experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- Two (2) years of Neurosurgery OR experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- Two (2) years of Vascular OR experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- Two (2) years of Orthopedic OR experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- One (1) year of OR robotics experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- One (1) year of Operating Room nursing experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- Certification in Perioperative nursing is preferred
- Bilingual is preferred
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
- Demonstrates working knowledge of the current requirements of accrediting and regulatory agencies
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills necessary to a variety of people from different socio-economic backgrounds
- Strong emergency response skills
- Strong customer service and empathy skills
- Demonstrate analytical and organizational, problem-solving, critical thinking, and conflict management/resolution skills
- Demonstrate attention to detail, accuracy and precision
- Ability to resolve complex patient/administration problems and research issues
- Ability to prioritize, plan, and organize projects and tasks
- Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and composure when challenged
- Ability to function autonomously and as a team member in a multidisciplinary team
- Ability to see and hear clearly (including with correction)
- Ability to tolerate exposure to unpleasant noise, odor and temperature
- Ability to walk extensively, lift moderately heavy objects, and climb stairs
- Ability to consistently push, pull, twist, turn, bend, kneel, stoop, lift and reach above shoulder and stand for prolonged periods of time.
- Ability to make appropriate and timely decisions in a crisis or emergency situation
- Ability to work and communicate effectively with a variety of individuals
- Ability to perform and/or direct cardiopulmonary resuscitation activities
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS
This position is functioning within a healthcare environment. The incumbent is responsible for adherence to all hospital and department specific safety requirements. This includes but is not limited to the following policies and procedures: complying with Personal Protective Equipment requirements, hand washing and sanitizing practices, complying with department specific engineering and work practice controls and any other work area safety precautions as specified by hospital wide policy and departmental procedures.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the personnel so classified.
For purposes of the American with Disabilities Act, “Typical Duties” are essential job functions.
When applying for employment with the Cook County Health & Hospitals System, preference is given to honorably discharged Veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States for not less than 6 months of continuous service:
To take advantage of this preference a Veteran must:
- Meet the minimum qualifications for the position.
- Identify self as a Veteran on the employment application by answering yes to the question by answering yes to the question, “Are you a Military Veteran?”
- Attach a copy of their DD 214, DD 215 or NGB 22 (Notice of Separation at time of application filing; please note: If you have multiple DD214s, 215s, or NGB 22S, Please submit the one with the latest date. Coast Guard must submit a certified copy of the military separation from either the Department of Transportation (Before 9/11) or the Department of Homeland Security (After 9/11). Discharge papers must list and Honorable Discharge Status. Discharge papers not listing an Honorable Discharge Status are not acceptable
OR
A copy of a valid State ID Card or Driver’s License which identifies the holder of the ID as a Veteran, may also be attached to the application at time of filing.
If items are not attached, you will not be eligible for Veteran Preference
VETERANS MUST PROVIDE ORIGINAL APPLICABLE DISCHARGE PAPERS OR APPLICABLE STATE ID CARD OR DRIVER’S LICENSE AT TIME OF INTERVIEW
MUST MEET REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF APPLICATION
Benefits Package
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
- Basic Term Life Insurance
- Pension Plan
- Deferred Compensation Program
- Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
- You may also qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
- 100% Tuition Reimbursement for nursing-related programs
For further information on our excellent benefits package, please click on the following link: http://www.cookcountyrisk.com/
*Degrees awarded outside the United States with the exception of those awarded in one of the United States' territories and Canada must be credentialed by an approved U.S. credential evaluation service belonging to the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE). Original credentialing documents must be presented at time of interview.
- Please note all offers of Employment are contingent upon the following conditions: satisfactory professional & employment references, healthcare and criminal background checks, appropriate licensure/certifications, and the successful completion of a physical and pre-employment drug screen.
- CCHHS is strictly prohibited from conditioning, basing, or knowingly prejudicing or affecting any term or aspect of County employment or hiring upon or because of any political reason or factor.
COOK COUNTY HEALTH AND HOSPITALS SYSTEM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The In-House Registry Nurse Specialty is specially trained to practice nursing during the Perioperative period. The dimensions of practice range from preoperative assessment to intra operative intervention to postoperative evaluation. It is practice designed to meet a patient’s needs through the nursing process, ensuring continuity of care during the surgical experience.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Day of Surgery
- Performs in scrub or circulating role.
- Checks the following day’s assignments so as to be prepared in anatomy, the surgeon’s preference, and sequence of procedure. If special instrumentation or prosthetics are requested, ensure they have arrived and familiar with usage
- Attends report at scheduled time
- Damp dusts operating room surfaces
- Checks supplies against preference cards, obtaining any missing items
- Ensures that required blood products are readily available in the Blood Bank
- Opens sterile supplies with scrub staff
- Performs initial baseline counts according to John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital (JSH) Policy and Procedures
- Checks spotlights, connects suctions, and electrical equipment
- Greets patients in Pre-Op area and receives hand-off communication from Pre-Op nurse; refers the Pre-Op admission policy; assures patients are in operating room fifteen (15) minutes before scheduled start of surgery
- Checks patient documentation preoperatively to ensure that chart is complete with: all appropriate consents signed, proper patient identification and verified with Pre-Op during hand off; Labs/X-ray, etc. (refers to policy)
- Assesses the physical and psychosocial needs of the patient; provides physical and emotional support, as needed; explains routines and procedures to patients, as needed
- Assists patients in moving to the O.R. table; requests assistance if necessary for moving and/or positioning; secures safety belt
- Keeps noise level to a minimum
- Assures surgeon and assistant (if applicable) are present in the operating room before anesthesia begins; remains next to the patient during anesthesia induction; assists anesthesiologist, as needed
- Performs pre-induction and pre-incision time out, checks with surgical team and anesthesia staff
- Assesses patient skin integrity on arrival to and prior to transfer from O.R.
- Assists in positioning of the patient
- Properly places grounding pad; refer to Electrosurgical Policy
- Performs skin prep per departmental policy
- Assists in gowning surgeons, assistants, etc.
- Connects suction and electrosurgical unit
- Pours medications on back table: ensures labels on all solutions and medications are to be checked by both scrub and circulating staff ensures expiration date is reviewed by both the scrub and circulating staff; ensures Anesthesiologist is notified whenever Xylocaine, Cocaine, Neosynephrine, or other similar drugs are on the field
- Maintains an ongoing assessment of supplies needed on the surgical field vs. supplies in the room
- Ensures instrument, needle, and sponge counts are performed in the event of permanent relief of either the scrub or circulating staff
- Contacts Holding area to call for the next scheduled case prior to closure of case in progress
- Notifies Control Desk if room is running late and may delay the next scheduled surgery
- Documents all supplies, implants and medications used during procedure
- Remains in the operating room at all times unless properly relieved by another Registered Nurse (if case in progress mandates leaving OR to secure additional supplies, notifies scrub staff prior to exiting the room)
- Prepares tape for dressings, gurney, and suction towards the end of procedure
- Accurately performs and documents final sponge, needs, and instrument count with scrub staff according to JSH Policy
- Cleans patient, applies dressings, and connects drains
- Assists anesthesiologist (i.e., extubation)
- Completes and documents all nursing interventions performed in the operating room
- Transfers patient to gurney
End of Procedure
- Cleans and stocks room
- Ensures all sutures, and supplies are returned to their proper place
- Returns furniture to its designated area
- Returns equipment to its designated storage area
- Ensures specimen(s) and slips have been transported to, and placed in, the specimen refrigerator
- Assists in collecting equipment for workroom
- Assists in cleaning of operating room
- Completes documentation and submits to Main Operating Room Office
- Signs out of Operating Room
- Documents time next case is scheduled in the room
- Performs special weekly assignments, as needed
Clinical Work Activities
- Supports the John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital, Department of Nursing Philosophy and goals
- Assumes responsibility of individual clinical competence and continuing education
- Participates in educational activities to increase competency
- Acts as a role model/preceptor for staff, orientees, and students in collaboration with other nursing staff and the clinical instructor
- Participates in staff nurse meetings, unit conferences, patient care conferences, etc., to coordinate nursing and medical management of patient care
- Seeks involvement in committees and professional organizations
- Provides care that demonstrates ethical beliefs and respect for patient rights
- Incorporates current research into nursing practice
- Supports research efforts conducted within the division/department
- Contributes to the efficient management operation of the Perioperative area
- Licensed as a Registered Professional Nurse in the State of Illinois (Must provide proof at time of interview)
- Two (2) years of Operating Room experience within the past six years is required
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (Must provide proof at time of interview if already obtained)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelors of Science in Nursing from an accredited college or university is preferred
- Two (2) years of Cardiothoracic OR experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- Two (2) years of Neurosurgery OR experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- Two (2) years of Vascular OR experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- Two (2) years of Orthopedic OR experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- One (1) year of OR robotics experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- One (1) year of Operating Room nursing experience in the scrub and circulating roles is preferred
- Certification in Perioperative nursing is preferred
- Bilingual is preferred
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
- Demonstrates working knowledge of the current requirements of accrediting and regulatory agencies
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills necessary to a variety of people from different socio-economic backgrounds
- Strong emergency response skills
- Strong customer service and empathy skills
- Demonstrate analytical and organizational, problem-solving, critical thinking, and conflict management/resolution skills
- Demonstrate attention to detail, accuracy and precision
- Ability to resolve complex patient/administration problems and research issues
- Ability to prioritize, plan, and organize projects and tasks
- Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and composure when challenged
- Ability to function autonomously and as a team member in a multidisciplinary team
- Ability to see and hear clearly (including with correction)
- Ability to tolerate exposure to unpleasant noise, odor and temperature
- Ability to walk extensively, lift moderately heavy objects, and climb stairs
- Ability to consistently push, pull, twist, turn, bend, kneel, stoop, lift and reach above shoulder and stand for prolonged periods of time.
- Ability to make appropriate and timely decisions in a crisis or emergency situation
- Ability to work and communicate effectively with a variety of individuals
- Ability to perform and/or direct cardiopulmonary resuscitation activities
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS
This position is functioning within a healthcare environment. The incumbent is responsible for adherence to all hospital and department specific safety requirements. This includes but is not limited to the following policies and procedures: complying with Personal Protective Equipment requirements, hand washing and sanitizing practices, complying with department specific engineering and work practice controls and any other work area safety precautions as specified by hospital wide policy and departmental procedures.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the personnel so classified.
For purposes of the American with Disabilities Act, “Typical Duties” are essential job functions.
When applying for employment with the Cook County Health & Hospitals System, preference is given to honorably discharged Veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States for not less than 6 months of continuous service:
To take advantage of this preference a Veteran must:
- Meet the minimum qualifications for the position.
- Identify self as a Veteran on the employment application by answering yes to the question by answering yes to the question, “Are you a Military Veteran?”
- Attach a copy of their DD 214, DD 215 or NGB 22 (Notice of Separation at time of application filing; please note: If you have multiple DD214s, 215s, or NGB 22S, Please submit the one with the latest date. Coast Guard must submit a certified copy of the military separation from either the Department of Transportation (Before 9/11) or the Department of Homeland Security (After 9/11). Discharge papers must list and Honorable Discharge Status. Discharge papers not listing an Honorable Discharge Status are not acceptable
OR
A copy of a valid State ID Card or Driver’s License which identifies the holder of the ID as a Veteran, may also be attached to the application at time of filing.
If items are not attached, you will not be eligible for Veteran Preference
VETERANS MUST PROVIDE ORIGINAL APPLICABLE DISCHARGE PAPERS OR APPLICABLE STATE ID CARD OR DRIVER’S LICENSE AT TIME OF INTERVIEW
MUST MEET REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF APPLICATION
Benefits Package
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
- Basic Term Life Insurance
- Pension Plan
- Deferred Compensation Program
- Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
- You may also qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
- 100% Tuition Reimbursement for nursing-related programs
For further information on our excellent benefits package, please click on the following link: http://www.cookcountyrisk.com/
*Degrees awarded outside the United States with the exception of those awarded in one of the United States' territories and Canada must be credentialed by an approved U.S. credential evaluation service belonging to the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE). Original credentialing documents must be presented at time of interview.
- Please note all offers of Employment are contingent upon the following conditions: satisfactory professional & employment references, healthcare and criminal background checks, appropriate licensure/certifications, and the successful completion of a physical and pre-employment drug screen.
- CCHHS is strictly prohibited from conditioning, basing, or knowingly prejudicing or affecting any term or aspect of County employment or hiring upon or because of any political reason or factor.
COOK COUNTY HEALTH AND HOSPITALS SYSTEM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
See All 18 Operating Room Technician Jobs in Chicago
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Find JobsOperating Room Technician Job Market in Chicago
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services
- Technology & Software
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Education
- Medical Devices
Operating Room Technician Jobs in Chicago: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a operating room technician job in Chicago?
Focus your search on Chicago's Medical District, Streeterville, and Hyde Park, where academic medical centers, trauma centers, and specialty surgical facilities cluster and hire most consistently. Candidates with experience in robotic-assisted surgery or cardiovascular procedures have a clear edge in this market. Reaching out directly to surgical department recruiters at large health systems and community hospitals often moves faster than applying through general postings.
Which companies hire operating room technicians in Chicago?
Companies currently hiring operating room technicians in Chicago include UChicago Medicine, Sinai Chicago, and Orison Solutions, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. Chicago's hiring landscape is anchored by large academic health systems, Level I trauma centers, and a growing number of ambulatory surgical centers expanding across the metro area.
Are there remote operating room technician jobs in Chicago?
Remote work is rare for operating room technicians because the role requires hands-on, sterile-field presence in an actual surgical suite. About 0% of operating room technician openings tied to Chicago are remote or hybrid as of July 2026, and those positions typically involve training coordination, surgical instrument inventory management, or vendor education roles rather than direct patient care.
How can I get a operating room technician job in Chicago with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path in Chicago is a sterile processing technician role at a community hospital or ambulatory surgical center, which builds the sterile technique and instrument knowledge that OR departments look for. Chicago-area surgical centers and smaller community hospitals in neighborhoods like Pilsen and Roseland tend to be more open to candidates completing externships or holding a newly earned surgical technology certificate than large academic systems, which typically require prior OR hours.
Which industries hire the most operating room technicians in Chicago?
Chicago operating room technician roles concentrate in Healthcare & Medical Services, Technology & Software, and Consulting & Professional Services, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. Chicago's dense network of teaching hospitals, specialty surgical institutes, and expanding outpatient surgery centers drives consistent demand across those sectors throughout the year.
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See All 18 Operating Room Technician Jobs in Chicago
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