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Surgery Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

UnityPoint Health

Peri-Operative Assistant

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Overview UnityPoint Health - Allen Peri-Operative Assistant - Surgery Full-Time Benefits Eligible | 0.80 FTE UnityPoint Health - Allen is seeking a dedicated Peri-Operative Assistant to support our ...

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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 Physician Assistant (PA)

AMN Healthcare

Mason City, IA

$106.70 - $115.50/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Description & Requirements
Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA)
StartDate: ASAP Pay Rate: $106.70 - $115.50

This facility is seeking a Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA) for locum tenens support as they look to fill a current need.  


Details and requirements for this opportunity: 

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM with weeknight call; weekends are 24-hour call coverage


Practice Setting: Inpatient cardiothoracic surgery, clinic, and call coverage


Types of Cases: Cardiothoracic surgery, endoscopic vein harvesting, coronary artery bypass graft procedures, post-operative management, inpatient rounding, clinic follow-up, surgical assistance, and call coverage


Credentialing Timeframe: 60-90 days


Certifications Required: Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Physician Assistant-Certified


Licensure Required: Iowa Physician Assistant license, Willing to license


Experience Required: Minimum 2 years of cardiothoracic surgery experience with endoscopic vein harvesting experience required


Facility Location
Mason City, is not only known for its exceptional musical heritage, but is also home to Kraft Foods. The famous composer, conductor and playwright Robert Meredith Willson, who wrote the music and lyrics for the Broadway musical, “The Music Man”, was from Mason City. Also visitors like to go to the Dr. G. C. Stockman House, which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built in 1908.
Job Benefits
AMN Healthcare typically arranges medical or dental malpractice insurance for the contractor providers we match to client opportunities. In addition, our locum tenens can receive highly competitive pay and a dedicated team that handles all travel, lodging, \u0009rentals and transportation needs.
About the Company
At AMN Healthcare, we strive to be recognized as the most trusted, innovative, and influential force in helping healthcare organizations provide quality patient care that continually evolves to make healthcare more human, more effective, and more achievable.
AMN Healthcare is a digitally enabled workforce solutions partner focused on solving the biggest challenges affecting healthcare organizations today. We offer a single-partner approach to optimize labor sources, increase operating margins, and provide technologies to expand the reach of care.

Compensation Information:
$106.70 / Hourly - $115.50 / Hourly

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