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Surgery Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Arthur Johnson III DDS PC

Oral Surgery Assistant

Covina, CA · On-site

$26 - $35/hr

Paid time off We are seeking an experienced Oral Surgery Assistant to join our team. This full-time position will support our practices located in Covina and Mission Viejo . Requirements: * 3-5 years ...

Steven D Darmstadt DDS Inc

Oral Surgery Assistant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.25/hr

Steven D Darmstadt DDS Inc is looking for a skilled and dedicated Oral Surgery Assistant to join our team in Anaheim, CA! This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside an experienced oral surgeon ...

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All JobsSurgery JobsSurgery Assistant JobsSurgery Assistant Jobs in California

Surgery Assistant information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$61

How much do surgery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgery assistant in California is $27.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgery assistant?

Surgery assistants, also known as surgical assistants or first assistants, are medical professionals who support surgeons during surgical procedures. They help by preparing the operating room, positioning patients, handing instruments, controlling bleeding, and assisting with suturing and closing incisions. Surgery assistants work under the supervision of surgeons to ensure procedures run smoothly and safely. They play a crucial role in the surgical team, contributing to patient care before, during, and after surgery.

How does a surgery assistant typically collaborate with surgeons and other operating room staff during procedures?

Surgery Assistants play a vital role in the operating room by working closely with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists to ensure procedures run smoothly. They are responsible for preparing the surgical site, passing instruments, maintaining a sterile environment, and sometimes assisting with suturing or other tasks as directed by the surgeon. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Surgery Assistants must anticipate the needs of the surgical team and respond quickly to changing situations. This collaborative environment helps ensure patient safety and procedural efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgery assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgery Assistant, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, aseptic techniques, and anatomy, typically supported by formal training or certification such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA). Proficiency with surgical instruments, sterile field maintenance, and familiarity with operating room technology are crucial. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, support efficient surgical workflows, and contribute to successful outcomes in high-stakes environments.

What is the difference between Surgery Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgery AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsTypically requires certification or training in surgical assistingRequires surgical technologist certification (CST)
Work EnvironmentAssist during surgeries under supervision, in hospitals or surgical centersPrepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment, assist during surgeries
Employer & IndustryHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, surgical centers, clinics

While both roles support surgical procedures, Surgery Assistants often have more direct involvement in assisting surgeons during operations, whereas Surgical Technologists focus on preparing the operating room and sterilization. Both require certification and work in similar healthcare settings, but Surgery Assistants typically have a broader scope of hands-on assistance during surgeries.

How do you become a surgery assistant?

To become a surgery assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a certified surgical assisting program or gaining relevant healthcare experience. Certification from organizations like the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or the Surgical Assisting Certification (CFA) can enhance job prospects, and strong communication and technical skills are essential for working in surgical environments.

What qualifications do you need to be a surgery assistant?

To become a surgery assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with postsecondary 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, is often required or preferred, and strong communication and technical skills are essential for assisting in surgical procedures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgery jobs in California?

The most popular types of Surgery jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Surgery Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Surgery Assistant job openings:

Surgery Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgery Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,374 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Oral Surgery Assistant

Long Beach Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, CA

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Dental, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Join Our Dynamic Team as an Oral Surgery Assistant!

We are seeking a highly motivated, patient-focused Oral Surgery Assistant to join our established practice. In this role, you will provide essential chairside and administrative support to our surgical team, contributing to a positive experience for patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial procedures. This position is ideal for both new graduates and candidates with prior dental experience who are eager to grow their skills in a supportive and professional environment.
Long Beach Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery has proudly served the community for over 40 years. Our team consists of three board-certified oral surgeons who practice at several local hospitals. With a longstanding reputation for clinical excellence and patient-centered care, our office is dedicated to maintaining a welcoming and efficient environment for both staff and patients.

Title

Oral Surgery Assistant

Job Description

Provide surgical chairside assistance for procedures such as dental implants, extractions (including wisdom teeth), sinus augmentations, and anesthesia cases
Register and assist new patients utilizing WINOMS software
Educate patients on office procedures and post-operative care
Confirm and schedule patient appointments and follow-ups
Maintain clean and organized surgical and reception areas
Help with front desk operations, including patient intake and administrative support as needed
Transport patients by wheelchair between office and vehicles
Update and organize patient education materials
Assist with basic clerical tasks and marketing activities

Salary Range

Full-time $20 - $25 per hour

- Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.

Benefits

Paid time off

Shift & Schedule

Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Weekends and major holidays off

Requirements
  • Experienced Dental Assistant (1+ years)
  • Registered dental assistant / Certified dental assistant

Minimum 1 year of experience in a dental or oral surgery setting OR new Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) graduate
Experience with chairside assisting and direct patient care
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to maintain organization and a positive, team-oriented attitude
Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced environment
Basic computer literacy and familiarity with dental practice software
Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic

Preferences
  • Implant Dentistry

CALAOMS or DAANCE certification
Experience using WINOMS software
Prior front desk or dental administrative experience
Experience with dental implantology and oral surgery procedures

Hiring Process

[1] Please apply through the Jobley application form
↓
[2] A recruiter will contact you to schedule an interview
↓
[3] Interview
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[4] Job offer
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[5] While proceeding with the hiring process, please apply for the Jobley Bonus through your Jobley account.
*The average time from application to job offer is about one week to one month.
*If you are currently employed and have difficulty changing jobs right now, schedules can be discussed.

Jobley Bonus

$90

If you land this job through Jobley, you will be eligible for a jobley bonus.

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