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Clinical Surgical Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Dental Assistant

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

The Surgical Assistant is responsible for reviewing the surgical caseload at the beginning of each day and assisting with clinical education of students and medical emergencies when needed. The ...

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Clinical Surgical Assistant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$19

$28

How much do clinical surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical surgical assistant in Raleigh, NC is $19.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical surgical assistant?

Clinical Surgical Assistants, also known as surgical first assistants or surgical technologists, are healthcare professionals who support surgeons during operations. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, arranging surgical instruments, and assisting with procedures by handling tools, controlling bleeding, and suturing incisions. Their role is vital in ensuring surgeries are performed efficiently and safely, and they often work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other operating room staff.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a clinical surgical assistant?

To thrive as a Clinical Surgical Assistant, you need a thorough understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and patient care, typically supported by a relevant associate’s degree or certification such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room protocols, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is crucial. Attention to detail, teamwork, effective communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure patient safety, smooth surgical workflows, and high-quality support to surgeons and clinical teams.

What are common challenges clinical surgical assistants face during surgical procedures, and how can they prepare for them?

Clinical Surgical Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing situations in the operating room, maintaining strict sterile technique, and effectively communicating with surgeons and the surgical team under pressure. To prepare, it's important to stay current with surgical protocols, participate in simulations or drills, and build strong relationships with colleagues. Proactively seeking feedback and continuously improving technical and interpersonal skills can help ensure smooth collaboration and high-quality patient care.

What is the difference between Clinical Surgical Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectClinical Surgical AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical Assistant (CSA), CPRCertified Surgical Technologist (CST), CPR
Work EnvironmentHospitals, outpatient clinics, surgical centersHospitals, outpatient surgical units, clinics
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities performing surgeriesHealthcare facilities supporting surgical teams
Job RoleAssists surgeons during procedures, prepares operating roomsPrepares surgical instruments, maintains sterile environment

Both Clinical Surgical Assistants and Surgical Technologists work in surgical settings, supporting healthcare teams. While Surgical Technologists primarily prepare instruments and maintain sterile fields, Clinical Surgical Assistants often assist directly during surgeries and may have additional certifications. Their roles are complementary but distinct within the surgical team.

What qualifications do you need to be a clinical surgical assistant?

To become a clinical surgical assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with post-secondary education such as a certificate or associate degree in surgical technology or a related field. Certification from a recognized organization, like the National Surgical Assistant Association or the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting, is often required or preferred. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What are popular job titles related to Clinical Surgical Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Clinical Surgical Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description


The Surgical Assistant’s primary responsibilities include performing patient care activities as a member of the surgical team, taking and developing x-ray films, cleaning, packaging, sterilizing, and storing supplies, instruments, and equipment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  1. Supports the philosophy, goals, and objectives of the Practice.
    1. Supports, and performs according to, approved policies and procedures.
    2. Supports risk management and participates in programs directed to patient and staff safety.
    3. Considers patient rights in performance of job duties and responsibilities.
    4. Contributes to the quality management process; identifies role and contributions upon request.
  2. Adheres to safety policies and procedures in performing job duties and responsibilities.
    1. Reports observed or suspected violations, hazards, and noncompliance according to Practice policy.
    2. Observes safety measures in performance of job duties and responsibilities.
    3. Responds to emergency situations with competence and composure.
  3. Communicates effectively with patients, visitors, physicians, and co‑workers.
    1. Interactions are respectful and courteous.
    2. Objectively evaluates suggestions, grievances, and processes to identify opportunities to improve performance and quality of care or seeks further guidance, as needed.
    3. Communicates effectively and professionally using a translator when necessary.
    4. Documents that information received from the patient is disseminated to the appropriate people or departments.
  4. Responds in a timely manner to meet the needs of the patient and the physician.
    1. Documents patient care records and other forms according to Practice policy.
    2. Communicates information about the patient's status to others responsible for patient care.
  5.    Accurately comprehends, interprets, and documents verbal orders and directions.
  6. Performs assisting duties and responsibilities.
    1. Reviews schedule at least one week in advance and prepares as necessary (make sure implants, abutments, splints, stents, etc. are available at the appropriate office).
    2. Assists doctors with surgical procedures (extractions, biopsies, implants, bone grafts, etc.); suction, irrigation, pass instruments, cut sutures, etc.
    3. Performs office procedures as directed (remove surgical splints, fit splints, remove sutures, place packs, etc.).
    4. Prepares patient and room set-up for appropriate procedure/exam.
    5. Reviews post-op instructions with surgery patients.
    6. Reviews charts/paperwork before doctor sees patient; completes appropriate paperwork.
    7. Helps in workroom and with restocking clinical supplies.
    8. Utilizes computer system (time clock, reviewing schedules, scheduling appointments, using e-mail, etc.).
    9. Reports any damaged equipment discovered during routing cleaning or use.
    10. Complies with all OSHA and office policies and procedures.
    11. Other duties as directed.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

Education/Certification/Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Oral and Maxillofacial surgery experience (preferred)
  • Demonstrated understanding of sterilization principles required
  • CPR certification required
  • NC dental x-ray certification (preferred)
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Anesthesia Assisting Program completion

Skills/Abilities: 

  • Problem solver and self-directed
  • High degree of professionalism and professional image
  • Strong and effective communication and platform skills
  • Positive attitude, change advocate, lead by example, coachable
  • Strong interpersonal and relationship building skills
  • Independent decision-making skills, sound judgment
  • Strong initiative and able to exercise sound judgement

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITION

  • Requires constant and frequent judgment and response. Requires language skills for communication in American English.
  • Requires high-level visual and auditory acuity for timely response and patient care activities. 
  • Requires the ability to move quickly in response to physician and patient needs, the ability to sit or stand for long periods, occasional overhead, and low reaching, bending, and the ability to exert force of up to 50 lbs. occasionally, up to 20 lbs. frequently and/or up to 10 lbs. constantly.  Patient care activities may require the ability to exert force of up to 30 pounds constantly, 40 pounds occasionally and up to 100 pounds rarely.
  • Category I exposure to bloodborne pathogens; frequent exposure to chemical hazards; may encounter radiation hazards.