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Surgery Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

AP Health

Labor & Delivery Surgical Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We partner with facilities to offer highly trained and knowledgeable Advanced Practice Providers to first assist in surgery. AP Health is seeking a highly experienced Surgical Assistant to join our ...

Brentwood Surgery Center

Certified First Assist

Brentwood, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will function as first/second assistant to the surgeon during the operative procedure, providing aid in exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions to ensure safe and efficient outcomes.

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All JobsSurgery JobsSurgery Assistant JobsSurgery Assistant Jobs in Tennessee

Surgery Assistant information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$24

$56

How much do surgery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgery assistant in Tennessee is $24.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $27.26 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 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Surgery jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Surgery Assistant jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Surgery Assistant job openings:

Surgery Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgery Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,845 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Labor & Delivery Surgical Assistant

AP Health

Nashville, TN • On-site

Temporary, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

AP Health is a private practice comprised of advanced practice providers. We provide perioperative services to hospitals, surgeons, and surgery centers. We partner with facilities to offer highly trained and knowledgeable Advanced Practice Providers to first assist in surgery.

AP Health is seeking a highly experienced Surgical Assistant to join our team in Nashville, TN. A successful candidate must have at least 3+ years of experience first assisting in Labor and Delivery. This job is strictly surgical only with no clinic time. This is an exciting opportunity to join a distinguished team that delivers top tier care.

This is NOT a travel, locum, placement, or per diem position. AP Health is not a staffing company.

What you will do:

  • Functions as a Surgical First Assistant in the Operating Room
  • Positions and drapes the patient under the direction of the surgeon
  • Suturing and retracting of all tissue layers
  • Assists in the intra-operative care of the patient by performing technical duties as assigned
  • Perform comprehensive and problem-focused histories and physical examinations
  • Rotating on call responsibilities

What do you need:

  • 3+ years experience functioning as a surgical first assist in labor and delivery
  • Current national surgical assistant certification
  • Active BLS and ACLS

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive and flexible medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Short and long-term disability, basic and supplemental life
  • 401K retirement plan with company matching
  • Participation in the company’s Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP)
  • Paid state license, malpractice, and other agreed upon licenses and dues
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Annual $1,500 allotment accompanied by 3 days of paid non-work time for Continuing Medical Education (CME)
  • Generous PTO and "life/work" balance

AP Health is a certified Great Place to Work™- a national recognition based on employee feedback about workplace culture and experience. If you have a passion for patient-centered care and interest in working in a fast-paced operating room atmosphere- join our team today!