Unit Secretary (CNA Pathway)

Unit Secretary (CNA Pathway Position)

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Part-Time | Variable Shifts

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As a Unit Secretary at UNC Health Appalachian, you will support the daily operations of the clinical unit through excellent communication, documentation management, and administrative coordination. You will help foster a positive, organized, and welcoming environment for patients, visitors, and clinical staff.

This position also serves as a CNA Pathway Role — meaning you will be hired as a Unit Secretary and receive support, guidance, and funding to obtain your CNA certification. Once the program is completed and licensure is achieved, you will have the opportunity to transition into a CNA role within our organization.

• Compensation: Starting pay begins at $16.85 per hour, with competitive rates based on experience and education.
• Schedule: Variable shifts including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision coverage, retirement with employer match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness programs, and employee discounts.

CNA Pathway Opportunity

UNC Health Appalachian is committed to developing future clinical talent and supporting individuals who want to begin a career in direct patient care. Through this Unit Secretary–to–CNA Pathway, you will receive:

• Paid employment while completing CNA training
• Financial support for CNA course tuition
• Flexibility in scheduling to attend CNA classes and clinicals
• Guaranteed eligibility to transition into a CNA role after successful program completion and licensure

This is an ideal opportunity for individuals who are passionate about patient care and looking to grow professionally within the healthcare field.

What You’ll Do as a Unit Secretary

• Provide clerical and administrative support essential to unit operations.
• Process and maintain patient charts, documentation, and records.
• Answer phones, call lights, and inquiries promptly and professionally, directing calls as appropriate.
• Greet and assist visitors, patients, and staff in a courteous and professional manner.
• Coordinate schedules, take meeting minutes, schedule rooms, and support meeting or event preparation for the unit.
• Support effective communication among staff, patients, and families.
• Assist team members and help maintain a smooth workflow across the unit.
• Uphold UNC Health Appalachian’s Mission, Vision, and Values in all interactions.

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Business coursework or medical terminology training preferred.

Experience:

• One year of experience in a medical, clerical, or office setting preferred.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, American Heart Association — required at hire.

Skills & Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and manage changing priorities.
• Proficiency in typing, computers, word processing, and documentation.
• Personable, helpful, and customer-service-focused.

Physical & Work Environment

• Prolonged sitting, standing, and walking throughout shift.
• Frequent bending, squatting, twisting, and reaching.
• Manual dexterity and near visual acuity for clerical tasks.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 30 lbs.
• Regular exposure to hospital environment risks including chemicals, equipment, and bloodborne pathogens.
• May work irregular hours including nights, weekends, holidays, and during emergencies.

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Begin your journey in healthcare and seamlessly advance into a Certified Nursing Assistant role through our pathway program.
• Impactful Work: Support the unit team and ensure seamless communication and coordination that improves patient care.
• Community & Lifestyle: Boone offers scenic mountain living, outdoor adventure, and a vibrant community atmosphere — consistently rated as one of the best small towns in America.
• Inclusive Culture: We foster a respectful, diverse, and collaborative environment where all team members are supported in their professional growth.

About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, includes three hospitals, 13 medical practices, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. We are committed to promoting health, enhancing quality of life, and “making life better.”

About UNC Health
UNC Health is an affiliated entity of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 campuses, and over 500 clinics. Our mission is to improve health and well-being while supporting the education of future healthcare professionals. For more information, visit unchealth.org.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or other protected status. We are committed to a fair, respectful hiring process. For accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

For accommodations or additional information, contact recruitment@apprhs.org.