The Surgical Services Technologist (ST) performs the delegated duties that ensure that the OR environment is safe, that equipment is cleaned and functions appropriately, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety. The ST possesses expertise in the application of sterile and aseptic technique; they combine the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tools and technologies to safely facilitate invasive and/or diagnostic procedures. The ST has the ability to manage stressful/unusual situations in a positive manner, and embraces the OHSU Core Competencies (Accountability, Collaboration, Communication, Diversity, Integrity, Respect, Service Orientation, Teamwork) into their practice.

Role Expectations:

• Demonstrate Proficiency in clinical skills/knowledge specific to Perioperative Services.
  • Demonstrates a working knowledge of sterile technique.
  • Proficient in the scrub role in the surgical specialties.
  • Provides fundamental components of patient comfort, safety, privacy and respect within the perioperative setting.
  • Identify/ develop areas of expertise within the surgical specialties.
  • Demonstrates working knowledge of equipment, instrumentation, and supplies.
• Performs effectively in emergent situations.
  • Recognizes and effectively responds as directed in emergency situations.
  • BLS certified.
  • Responds appropriately as directed in a code situation.
• Manages time effectively.
  • Accomplishes caseload assignments in a timely manner.
  • Completes turnover of the operating room between cases before or within the established time lines.
  • Uses unassigned time productively.

Communication, Teamwork, and Leadership. 

• Demonstrates effective communication skills, which convey a positive and supportive message.
• Collaborates with surgical team members (nursing, anesthesia and surgeon) on specific issues or concerns.
• Seeks input and consultation.
• Reports incidents and errors verbally and in writing in accordance with established procedures.
• Ensures confidentiality is maintained in all forms of communication.
• Demonstrates flexibility in response to unexpected changes in workload and assignment.
• Incorporates conflict management skills in the resolution of issues.
• Participates in projects and committees as requested/assigned.
• Works collaboratively with OHSU personnel, maintaining communication that facilitates teamwork.
• Conveys a positive image of peers, colleagues, and OHSU to patients, families, the public and other health care team members.

Other Duties as assigned

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification at time of hire.

New Employees as of 9/1/2015

• Graduated from a Nationally-Accredited organization approved by the Oregon Health Authority as of date of hire; AND 
• Hold and maintain a national Surgical Technologist Certification by NBSTSA (National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting) as of date of hire. 

New provision of House Bill 4106 amending ORS 676.875 (New Employees effective March 23, 2022):

• Completion of a surgical assistant or surgical technologist certification, including but not limited to a certified ophthalmic surgical assisting credential issued by the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology or its successor organization, that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies OR
• Completed a Surgical Technologist training program in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Public Health Service of the USA AND must complete 16 hours of continuing education every 2 years.  OR
• Did not graduate from an accredited school must and can provide documentation showing that he/she they practiced as a Surgical Tech during at least two of the three years immediately preceding January 1, 2017 AND must complete 16 hours of continuing education every 2 years. 

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Strong customer service orientation.

• Cooperation with and maintenance of good rapport with nursing staff, ancillary personnel, other departments, patients, and physicians.

• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly with staff, patients, and visitors.

• Basic computer skills may be required. Good prioritization and organizational skills.

• Flexibility, ability to deal effectively with unforeseen request or circumstances during a case.

• Prompt, efficient and dependable.

• Maintenance of patient and medical staff confidentiality.

• At least two years of hands-on experience in an OR setting.

Requires prioritization of multiple projects, activities, and assignments. May be exposed to excessive auditory and visual stimulation. May be exposed to body fluids, tissue, and infectious processes. Subject to computer work for several hours, as needed. Able to utilize all patient care equipment with work area.

We are Oregon’s only public academic health center.

In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research.  We also train the next generation of health care professionals.  As Portland’s largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

All are welcome.

OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations.  We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.

To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu