CNA I - Med-Surg

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

As a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll play an essential role in supporting patient care and comfort. Working under the direction of licensed nurses, you'll provide hands-on assistance that directly impacts patient experience, safety, and overall well-being. This position is ideal for someone compassionate, dependable, and committed to delivering respectful, patient-centered care in a collaborative healthcare environment.

Compensation: Starting at $17.87 per hour, based on education and experience Shift Differentials: Available in addition to base pay Status: Non-Exempt Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; Career Pathways Program; wellness incentives through the Love Your Life program; Employee-to-Employee (E2E) support program; and additional employee discounts. Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new hire orientation.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina offers exceptional outdoor recreation, vibrant community living, and outstanding quality of life.

What You'll Do as a Certified Nursing Assistant

Patient Care & Clinical Support

• 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 including feeding, bathing, shaving, dressing, repositioning, and bed-making.
• Reinforce patient and family education as directed by nursing staff or physicians.
• Monitor patient conditions and promptly report changes to licensed staff.

Collaboration & Professional Practice

• Maintain compliance with organizational standards and CNA scope of practice.
• Communicate effectively and respectfully with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
• Support a safe, compassionate, and patient-centered environment.
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and integrity in high-stress situations.

Qualifications

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

Licensure & Certifications

• Active Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) license in the State of North Carolina
• Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of CNA scope of practice and patient care procedures
• Effective and courteous communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively within the healthcare team
• Strong customer service mindset and commitment to patient dignity
• Conflict resolution skills and emotional resilience
• Proficiency with basic computer systems and electronic medical records (EMR)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, position, push, pull, and transfer patients or equipment weighing 50+ pounds
• Manual dexterity and mobility for hands-on patient care
• Prolonged sitting, standing, and walking
• Frequent bending, squatting, twisting, and turning
• Near visual acuity for detailed patient care tasks

Work Environment

• Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and infectious materials
• Frequent exposure to electrical/mechanical equipment and environmental hazards
• Requires flexibility for irregular hours including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays
• Physical stamina for long shifts and frequent patient mobilization
• Exposure to repetitive motion tasks and occasional confined spaces

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 View email address on click.appcast.io.