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If you’ve Googled “Unit Secretary job description,” you’ve probably seen the same post repeated on every other site.
Bullet points. Basic duties. No insight. No context.
Just generic filler.
The problem is—those kinds of posts won’t help you attract a great Unit Secretary.
They don’t speak to real candidates. They don’t reflect what your workplace is like. And they certainly don’t highlight what makes your role or team special.
So in this guide, we’re doing things differently.
You’ll not only get two high-converting Unit Secretary job description templates—one for experienced candidates and one for those willing to learn—but we’ll also show you:
- What this role actually looks like in plain-English
- What makes a job post effective (and what causes top candidates to ignore it)
- Real examples of what to do—and what to avoid
- Smart ways to stand out without gimmicks or corporate buzzwords
And if you haven’t already, we recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/
Because the truth is: the way you write a job post directly affects the kind of people who apply.
Let’s get started.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What A Unit Secretary Actually Does - Their Roles
A Unit Secretary is the backbone of any healthcare unit.
They’re the ones keeping the team organized, patients informed, and day-to-day operations running smoothly.
But this isn’t just a clerical job.
A great Unit Secretary is calm under pressure, sharp with details, and confident juggling multiple priorities—from updating charts and managing schedules to answering phones and coordinating with nurses, doctors, and family members.
They’re often the first person a patient’s family talks to.
And the one nurses rely on to keep things moving behind the scenes.
So while technical skills like using EHR systems matter, just as important are soft skills—communication, professionalism, emotional intelligence, and the ability to stay composed in a fast-paced environment.
In short: a Unit Secretary supports the entire team, helps patients feel seen, and keeps the chaos in check.
Two Great Unit Secretary Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Experienced Unit Secretary Job Description Template
Job Title:
Unit Secretary – Join Our Fast-Paced Surgical Team at Mercy Hill Medical Center | Dallas, TX
Job Type:
Full-Time | In-Person | $19–$23/hour (Based on Experience)
Schedule:
Mon–Fri, 7AM–3PM with rotating weekend shifts
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
Before you apply, meet Sarah—our surgical unit manager—who’ll tell you what it’s like to work here, what we’re looking for, and how this role helps us deliver world-class care.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube video link here]
Who We Are
Mercy Hill Medical Center is a 300-bed nonprofit hospital in the heart of Dallas. For over 35 years, we’ve been providing patient-first care rooted in compassion, collaboration, and clinical excellence. From neonatal intensive care to surgical recovery, our mission is simple: treat every patient like family. Our surgical unit is known for precision, speed, and tight teamwork—every role here matters.
What You’ll Do:
- Greet and assist patients, visitors, and medical staff professionally
- Answer unit phone lines, take messages, and route calls
- Maintain and update patient charts in Epic (EHR system)
- Schedule procedures, tests, and patient transport
- Coordinate with nurses and providers for smooth unit flow
- Monitor supply inventory and track clinical forms
- Keep the unit organized, efficient, and calm—especially under pressure
What We’re Looking For:
- 2+ years experience in a hospital or clinical environment
- Skilled in Epic or similar EHR software
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills
- Excellent communicator, both verbal and written
- Calm, composed, and dependable during busy shifts
- High school diploma required; medical terminology certification preferred
Perks and Benefits:
- Competitive hourly pay ($19–$23/hour)
- Full medical, dental, and vision coverage (starting Day 1)
- 401(k) with employer matching
- Up to 40 hours of paid time off (PTO) annually
- Tuition assistance and CEU reimbursement
- Employee wellness program + on-site gym access
- Free parking for staff + cafeteria discounts
Why This Role Is a Great Fit:
At Mercy Hill, Unit Secretaries are respected as key team players—not sidelined support. You’ll work directly with nurses, surgeons, and families, helping keep patient care smooth and efficient. You’ll be trusted, seen, and supported. We promote from within and provide ongoing mentorship to help you grow your healthcare career on your terms.
How to Apply:
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link Here]
🌱 Option 2: Entry-Level Unit Secretary Job Description Template (Willing to Train)
Job Title:
Unit Secretary (Entry-Level – Training Provided) | Mercy Hill Medical Center, Dallas, TX
Job Type:
Full-Time | On-Site | $16–$19/hour (Based on Experience)
Schedule:
Mon–Fri, 8AM–4PM
🎥 Meet Your Supervisor
Watch this quick video from Jasmine, our Nurse Coordinator, sharing why Mercy Hill is a great place to start your healthcare career—even if you’re brand new to the field.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube video link here]
Who We Are
Mercy Hill Medical Center is a nonprofit community hospital in Dallas that’s been serving families for over three decades. Our reputation for warm, high-quality care is built on trust, teamwork, and compassion. From frontline staff to leadership, we believe in helping people grow—and that includes giving new team members the tools and support they need to succeed.
What You’ll Do:
- Welcome patients and visitors with professionalism and care
- Answer phones, take messages, and connect calls to the right people
- Assist with appointment scheduling and paperwork
- Keep medical records up to date and organized
- Help nurses and staff stay on track by handling key clerical tasks
- Learn hospital systems and workflows while on the job
What We’re Looking For:
- High school diploma or GED
- Friendly, calm, and professional demeanor
- Willingness to learn quickly and take initiative
- Good computer skills (familiar with email and basic apps)
- Experience in customer service or office admin is a plus—but not required
Perks and Benefits:
- Starting pay of $16–$19/hour (based on experience)
- Full health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with employer match
- 24 flex PTO days annually
- On-the-job training and coaching
- Discounted meals, free uniforms, and commuter stipend
Why This Role Is a Great Fit:
This is more than just your first job—it’s your first step into a meaningful healthcare career. We don’t expect perfection; we’re here to help you grow. Whether you want to stay in admin or eventually become a nurse, medical assistant, or something else entirely—this role gives you the exposure, training, and team support to build your future.
How to Apply:
We use WorkScreen to make the hiring process fair and easy for everyone—no resume required to get started.
Click the link below to complete your short evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link Here]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown Of Why These Unit Secretary Job Posts Work
Both Unit Secretary job descriptions follow a structure that not only informs—but inspires. Here’s why they’re effective:
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear and Specific
Instead of just saying “Unit Secretary,” the titles include context like:
- “Join Our Fast-Paced Surgical Team at Mercy Hill Medical Center”
- “Entry-Level – Training Provided”
This does two things:
- It tells candidates exactly where they’ll be working and what kind of unit they’ll be supporting
- It attracts the right people—those who either thrive in high-paced environments or are seeking entry-level roles with growth potential
✅ 2. The Video Adds a Human Touch
Right after the job title, each post includes a short video from a real team leader. This:
- Makes the job post feel personal, not anonymous
- Shows that the company is intentional about how it hires
- Helps applicants emotionally connect before they’ve even read the details
Top candidates want to know who they’ll be working with—not just what they’ll be doing.
✅ 3. The Company Description Is Warm and Real
No corporate jargon here. Instead, each “Who We Are” section:
- Highlights Mercy Hill’s community roots and patient-first mission
- Gives a genuine sense of culture and team dynamics
- Helps candidates imagine what kind of environment they’d be joining
This matters. Candidates care how a company treats people—not just patients, but staff too.
✅ 4. Responsibilities Are Written Like a Real Day-in-the-Life
Instead of dumping a list of duties, the descriptions:
- Use active, plain-English verbs
- Show how each task supports patients or the team
- Emphasize the role’s impact, not just its functions
It turns routine tasks into a story—and makes the role feel purposeful.
✅ 5. The Application Process Shows Respect
Each job description clearly outlines:
- How to apply
- What platform is used (WorkScreen)
- That the company values fairness and transparency
This sets the right tone. It shows the company doesn’t ghost applicants, and that hiring is a two-way process.
✅ 6. Salary and Perks Are Transparent
Instead of vague promises like “competitive salary,” both posts:
- List the actual pay range
- Break out perks and benefits in their own section
- Include PTO, insurance, and even things like free uniforms or parking
That kind of clarity builds trust—and trust attracts serious, qualified candidates.
✅ 7. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Sells the Job (Without Being Salesy)
These sections go beyond benefits. They explain:
- Why the role matters
- How it fits into the bigger mission
- What kind of support and growth opportunities are available
This is your real pitch—and both versions make it count.
Bad Unit Secretary Job Description example (And Why It Fails)
❌ Generic Unit Secretary Job Post (Outdated Style)
Job Title:
Unit Secretary
Job Type:
Full-Time
Location:
Dallas, TX
Job Summary:
We are hiring a Unit Secretary to assist with clerical tasks, scheduling, and administrative support in the unit. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, able to work independently, and have prior healthcare experience.
Responsibilities:
- Perform clerical and administrative duties
- Schedule appointments and coordinate with staff
- File documents and maintain records
- Answer phones and relay messages
- Assist with general support as needed
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Prior administrative experience preferred
- Familiarity with hospital environments is a plus
Salary:
Not disclosed
How to Apply:
Send your resume and cover letter to hr@hospital.org. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Flat
🔻 1. The Job Title Is Vague
“Unit Secretary” with no added context gives the reader zero insight into:
- What kind of unit it is
- Whether it’s fast-paced, entry-level, or specialized
- What makes this opportunity unique
A good title should filter the right candidates in—and the wrong ones out.
🔻 2. The Introduction Is Cold and Uninspired
“Hiring a Unit Secretary to assist with clerical tasks” reads like a placeholder.
There’s no story, no mission, no personality—and nothing to connect emotionally with candidates who care about purpose-driven work.
🔻 3. Responsibilities Are Generic
Phrases like “general support” and “perform clerical duties” are too broad. Candidates can’t picture what a day on the job actually looks like.
Great job posts paint a picture—this one just throws a list together.
🔻 4. No Salary Transparency
By skipping salary info, this post leaves candidates in the dark. That’s not only a bad experience—it also:
- Discourages serious applicants
- Signals that the company might not be competitive or upfront
🔻 5. No Mention of Team, Culture, or Mission
There’s no indication of:
- What kind of team the candidate would join
- What the work environment is like
- Why this job (or company) matters
That makes it feel like a “just fill the spot” role, not a thoughtful hiring decision.
🔻 6. The Application Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is a red flag in today’s hiring market.
It tells applicants:
“Don’t expect respect. We won’t follow up unless you’re lucky.”
Top talent expects communication—even if they’re not chosen. That’s how trust is built.
🔻 7. Zero Personality in the CTA
“Send your resume and cover letter” is fine—but it’s bare minimum. There’s no encouragement, no energy, and no sense of excitement or urgency.
A strong call-to-action makes the candidate want to click—not yawn.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Description Stand Out
✅ Tip 1: Add a Security / Privacy Notice to Build Trust
Job scams are on the rise, and applicants are wary of phishing attempts or fake listings. Including a short security notice at the bottom of your job post builds trust immediately.
Example:
🔒 We take your privacy seriously. Mercy Hill Medical Center will never request payment, financial details, or personal banking information at any stage of the hiring process.
This helps candidates feel safe—and signals that you’re a legitimate, professional organization.
✅ Tip 2: Mention Paid Time Off and Leave Days
PTO isn’t just a benefit—it’s a differentiator. If your company offers generous or flexible leave policies, say it clearly in your job post.
Example:
Enjoy up to 24 paid flex days per year so you can recharge when you need it most—no questions asked.
It’s a small line with big value, especially for healthcare workers prone to burnout.
✅ Tip 3: Highlight Training and Career Growth Opportunities
This is especially important in entry-level job descriptions, but even experienced candidates want to know there’s room to grow.
Example:
We offer structured mentorship, shadowing opportunities, and ongoing support so you can advance in your career—whether it’s in healthcare admin, nursing, or management.
People don’t just want a job—they want a path. Highlighting growth tells them this isn’t a dead-end role.
✅ Tip 4: Add a Loom or YouTube Video from the Hiring Manager
You’ve already done this in the templates—but it’s worth reinforcing. A 60–90 second video:
- Makes your job post feel personal and intentional
- Humanizes your company
- Dramatically increases candidate engagement
Don’t overthink it. Just have the hiring manager share:
- What kind of person they’re looking for
- What success in the role looks like
- Why the role matters to the team
It’s one of the easiest, highest-ROI improvements you can make to a job post.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✅ Tip 5: Use a Respectful Tone Throughout
Little language cues like “We’re excited to meet you” or “We respect your time” go a long way in making applicants feel seen.
Avoid cold, transactional phrasing like:
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”
Instead, try:
“We do our best to review every application and reply within two weeks—because we believe every candidate deserves a thoughtful experience.”
Respect is a hiring advantage.
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
🤖 The Short Answer: Yes—and No.
AI can be a helpful tool if you use it with intention.
But if you ask it something vague like:
“Write a Unit Secretary job post for a hospital.”
You’ll likely get back a generic block of text filled with buzzwords, clichés, and zero personality. It might technically be correct—but it won’t attract the right people.
Why? Because:
- It reads like it was written by a machine (because it was)
- It doesn’t reflect your actual team, culture, or values
- It attracts low-effort applicants who spam “one-click apply” buttons
- Worst of all—it makes your brand forgettable
✅ How to Use AI the Right Way
AI works best when it’s shaping and polishing your ideas—not replacing them.
The key is to feed it real context—your company’s tone, values, and hiring intent—and let it help you organize and enhance what you’ve already written.
Here’s an example of a smart AI prompt you can use:
🧠 Smart Prompt for Better AI-Generated Job Posts
Help me write a job post for our company, Mercy Hill Medical Center. We’re hiring a Unit Secretary to support our fast-paced surgical unit. Our culture is built around collaboration, emotional intelligence, and patient-first care. We’re looking for someone who’s organized, calm under pressure, and ready to be a key part of our clinical team. Here’s what we offer: $19–$23/hour, full benefits from Day 1, 40 hours of PTO annually, and career advancement opportunities. Our hiring process is respectful and transparent—we reply to every applicant and use WorkScreen to evaluate skills fairly. Please write this job post in a warm, conversational tone—no jargon or buzzwords. Here are a few notes I’ve written to help you: [Insert bullet points or drafts here].
With that kind of prompt, AI becomes your writing partner, not a shortcut.
It helps structure your ideas, improve flow, and maintain consistency—while still keeping your post personal and specific.
❌ Bottom Line: Don’t One-Click Your Way to Mediocrity
Your job post is the first impression of your team.
If it feels like a form letter, top candidates won’t bother applying.
AI should support your voice—not replace it.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
Job Title:
Unit Secretary – Help Keep Our Team Running Smoothly at [Company Name] | [Location]
Job Type:
[Full-Time/Part-Time] | [In-Person/Hybrid] | $[Salary Range]
🎥 Meet Your Supervisor:
Want to hear directly from the team you’ll be joining? Watch this quick video from your future supervisor to learn more about what it’s like to work here:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube video link here]
Who We Are:
[Company Name] is a [hospital/clinic/healthcare facility] dedicated to [mission or value statement]. We believe in clear communication, patient-centered care, and supporting every team member with respect and purpose. Whether you’re greeting patients, updating records, or coordinating schedules, you’ll be making a difference every day.
What You’ll Do:
- Greet patients and staff at the front desk
- Answer phones, route messages, and schedule appointments
- Update patient records using [EHR System]
- Support nurses and doctors with essential clerical tasks
- Stay organized, helpful, and calm—even during busy shifts
What We’re Looking For:
- years of admin/healthcare experience preferred
- Confident using EHR software (or willing to learn)
- Friendly, composed, and detail-oriented
- High school diploma or equivalent
Perks and Benefits:
- $[Salary Range]/hour based on experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- PTO + [#] paid leave days per year
- 401(k) with employer match
- Growth and training opportunities
- Free uniforms + employee meal discounts
Why This Role Is a Great Fit:
You’ll be more than just support—you’ll be the glue that keeps the team together. We’ll treat you with the same care you give to others. And we’ll help you grow your career in the direction that feels right to you.
How to Apply:
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not just resumes.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured Format (Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
Job Title:
Unit Secretary | [Company Name] – [Location]
Job Type:
[Full-Time] | [On-Site] | $[Salary Range]
🎥 Meet the Team Leader:
Before you apply, take a minute to hear from your future team lead. In this short video, they’ll share what the role is really like, what success looks like, and why this position matters.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube video link here]
Who We Are:
[Company Name] is a healthcare provider that values teamwork, trust, and attention to detail. We’re committed to creating an environment where every team member feels supported and empowered to do their best work.
Job Brief:
We’re looking for a Unit Secretary to keep our [type of unit] running smoothly. If you’re organized, people-oriented, and thrive in busy environments, this role offers a meaningful way to contribute to patient care.
Key Responsibilities:
- Greet and assist patients, visitors, and staff
- Answer phone calls and route messages
- Maintain and update patient records in [EHR software]
- Schedule procedures, appointments, and transport
- Coordinate with nurses and providers to streamline care
- Track inventory and ensure the unit runs efficiently
Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- [1–2] years of administrative or hospital experience preferred
- Familiarity with EHR systems (Epic, Cerner, etc.)
- Strong multitasking and communication skills
- Reliable, professional, and calm under pressure
Perks and Benefits:
- Competitive hourly wage: $[Salary Range]
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- PTO + [#] paid holidays per year
- On-the-job training + certification support
- Opportunities to grow within the organization
- Free parking + cafeteria discounts
How to Apply:
We use WorkScreen to make the process simple and fair.
Click the link below to start your evaluation and show us what you’re great at—no cover letter required.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Once you’ve written a strong job post that attracts the right people, the next challenge is figuring out who’s actually worth interviewing.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
WorkScreen helps you:
✅ Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Easily administer role-specific skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate low-effort applicants (including AI copy-pasters)
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
✅ Hire confidently, fairly, and faster
Instead of chasing résumés or second-guessing instincts, you get clear data and real signals—so your next hire is a smart one.
Ready to see it in action? Post your next role using WorkScreen and experience what smarter, skills-first hiring looks like:
FAQ
Beyond technical proficiency, the best Unit Secretaries excel in four key areas:
- Communication: Clear, calm, and professional—especially when handling patients, families, and clinicians.
- Organization: Able to juggle multiple tasks, manage time effectively, and keep systems updated without dropping details.
- Emotional intelligence: Reads the room, stays composed in high-pressure environments, and responds with empathy.
- Initiative: Doesn’t just wait to be told—anticipates needs and steps in to keep the unit running smoothly.
Bonus skills include proficiency with electronic health record systems (e.g., Epic, Cerner), fast typing speed, and strong phone etiquette.
In the United States, the average salary for a Unit Secretary ranges from $17 to $23 per hour, depending on location, experience level, and healthcare facility type.
Entry-level roles may start closer to $16/hour, while experienced professionals working in specialized units (like surgery or ICU) can earn $24+/hour.
Remember, total compensation also includes benefits like healthcare coverage, PTO, and retirement contributions—which vary by employer.
In most cases, certification is not required—but it can give candidates an edge.
Some hospitals prefer or encourage certification in:
- Medical terminology
- Health unit coordination
- HIPAA compliance
Programs like the National Association of Health Unit Coordinators (NAHUC) certification can show commitment to the role and improve hiring potential.
While these roles overlap in clerical tasks, Unit Secretaries typically work on the clinical floor, supporting direct patient care teams. They coordinate with nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals in real time.
By contrast:
- Medical Secretaries often work in offices, handling appointments and billing
- Administrative Assistants tend to support non-clinical teams or departments
Think of Unit Secretaries as the bridge between clinical staff and operations—always close to the action.
