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Surgery Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kimball and Beecher

Oral Surgery Dental Assistant

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

Oral Surgery Dental Assistant Are you a skilled and compassionate dental professional looking for an exciting and rewarding opportunity? Kimball & Beecher is seeking an Oral Surgery Dental Assistant ...

Kimball and Beecher

Oral Surgery Dental Assistant

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Join Our Team as an Oral Surgery Dental Assistant! Are you a skilled and compassionate dental professional looking for an exciting and rewarding opportunity? Kimball & Beecher is seeking an Oral ...

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Surgery Assistant information

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 do you become a surgery assistant?

To become a surgery assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a post-secondary program in surgical technology or a related field. Certification, such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), can enhance job prospects, and hands-on training or experience in a healthcare setting is often required.

How long does it take to be a surgery assistant?

Becoming a surgery assistant typically requires completing a post-secondary program in surgical technology or a related healthcare field, which can take about 1 to 2 years. Some roles may also require on-the-job training or certification, such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which can take additional months to obtain.

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.

What does a surgery assistant do?

A surgery assistant supports surgeons during procedures by preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and handing instruments. They may also help position patients and monitor vital signs, requiring knowledge of sterile techniques and sometimes certification. Their role ensures smooth surgical operations and patient safety.

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 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 Technology Certification (NBSTSA), 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 Iowa? The most popular types of Surgery jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Surgery Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Surgery Assistant job openings:
Surgery Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgery Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Cardiothoracic Surgery

National Coalition Of Healthcare Recruiters

Mason City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

(Only QUALIFIED Healthcare Professionals accepted) *Cardiothoracic Surgery NP or PA needed to work with a collaborative team of highly trained specialists.
*North central Iowa.
*This will be a mix of inpatient and outpatient work. Clinic and surgery.
*Current staff in department: 1 physician and 2 PAs.
*Call is 1:3 and currently for emergent surgeries only (approx. 10 per year)
*1-2 years of experience in CT surgery assist with >50 endoscopic vein harvests using the maquet system required.
*All inquiries and conversations are strictly confidential.
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About National Coalition Of Healthcare Recruiters

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The National Coalition of Healthcare Recruiters (NCHCR) is an established company based in Blennerhassett, West Virginia that operates within the healthcare industry. With a commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism, they offer specialized recruitment services to healthcare professionals and institutions across the country. Operating as a coalition, they implement a powerful networking platform to connect employers and job seekers in the healthcare sector. The organization’s mission revolves around ensuring that healthcare services across the nation have access to the best talent available and potential candidates can find rewarding opportunities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Blennerhassett, WV, US

Year founded

2005

Social media

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