Job Abstract

San Mateo County Health is seeking one an experienced Orthopedic Technician to fill a Part-Time, Extra-Help vacancy in the San Mateo Medical Center.

The successful hire will work in the Specialty Clinics. Duties will include, under the general supervision of a Charge Nurse, applying and removing plaster or fiberglass casts and splints on patients with fractures, sprains, or torn muscles; ordering supplies; maintaining cast working area; assisting the supervising physician or nurse as needed; and assist with simple surgical procedures in other clinics and with admission and screening of patients.

The ideal candidate will:

• Have two years of experience in a hospital, institution, nursing home or private practice setting as an orthopedic technician preferred.
• Knowledge of standard sterile techniques and principles/methods used in preparing, applying and removing casts.
• Orthopedic Technologist and CPR certifications are strongly preferred.
• The ability to interact and communicate effectively with staff and patients and work productively and independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience working in a fast-paced clinic with a diverse population and the ability to be flexible and adapt to changes.
• Bilingual English/Spanish is preferred but not required.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Apply and remove casts as instructed by the physician.
• Arrange X-rays.
• Keep cast cart stocked with supplies and equipment; order casting and other supplies.
• Operate specialized cast equipment including electric cast cutting saw, cast spreader.
• Apply and remove traction equipment and casts to avoid injury or deformity.
• Keep cast working area clean and orderly.
• Prepare patients and equipment for simple surgical procedures and assists physician who performs them.
• Instruct patients in care and possible dangers of casts.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Standard sterile techniques.
• Patient care and nursing.
• Anatomy and physiology, particularly muscle and bone structure.
• Principles, methods, materials and tools used in preparing, applying and removing plaster casts.
• Hospital routine and organization.

• Exert sufficient physical strength to hold casts during applying period.
• Learn to use tools such as cast spreaders and electric cast saws.
• Manual dexterity sufficient to handle, apply and remove plaster cast materials, and assist with surgical procedures.
• Follow oral and written instructions.
• Deal effectively with hospital staff and patients.

If you are interested in being considered for Orthopedic Technician - Extra-Help position, the following materials must be electronically submitted in a Word or PDF format:

• Resumé
• Responses to Supplemental Questions

Chris Montenegro, Clinics Manager

cmontenegro@smcgov.org