CNA I (Certified Nursing Assistant) - ICU

Unc-Health-Appalachian; Boone (NC); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Retirement plan with employer match

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Career Pathways Program

Love Your Life wellness incentives

E2E support program

Employee discounts

Job summary

UNC Health Appalachian is seeking a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) I for the ICU to support patient care under licensed nurses. This inpatient ICU position in Boone, NC offers non‑exempt status and a comprehensive benefits package.

You will assist with patient preparation, vitals, and daily care, while ensuring safety and dignity in a fast-paced environment. BLS and NC CNA licensure are required, with benefits beginning after 60 days.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required.
• Successful completion of an accredited CNA program licensed in North Carolina.
• Active Certified Nursing Assistant license in North Carolina.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire.

Responsibilities

• 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 bedmaking.
• Reinforce patient and family education as directed by nursing staff or physicians.
• Monitor patient conditions and promptly report changes to licensed staff.

Skills

Patient care

Vital signs

Communication

EMR software

Education

High School Diploma

Job description

CNA I (Certified Nursing Assistant) - ICU

Watauga Medical Center · ICU (Intensive Care Unit)

Clinical Service

Location:Boone, North Carolina |Inpatient Setting (ICU) | Non-Exempt

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As aCertified 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

Compensation:Starting at$18.05per 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 Carolinaoffers 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

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

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, visitunchealth.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.