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Surgery Assistant Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Prepare the Operating Room prior to surgery. * Assist the surgeon during surgery. * Care for the instruments and supplies used in surgery. At UW Health, you will have : * An excellent benefits ...

Prepare the Operating Room prior to surgery. * Assist the surgeon during surgery. * Care for the instruments and supplies used in surgery. At UW Health, you will have : * An excellent benefits ...

Prepare the Operating Room prior to surgery. * Assist the surgeon during surgery. * Care for the instruments and supplies used in surgery. At UW Health, you will have : * An excellent benefits ...

Assess the patient and resources and plan for the scheduled surgery. Assist surgeons and other health care professionals with outpatient surgery procedures. Duties include setting up IVs, monitoring ...

Assess the patient and resources and plan for the scheduled surgery. Assist surgeons and other health care professionals with outpatient surgery procedures. Duties include setting up IVs, monitoring ...

Showing results 41-60

Surgery Assistant information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$27

$63

How much do surgery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgery assistant in Wisconsin is $27.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $30.34 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 Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Surgery jobs in Wisconsin are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Surgery Assistant jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Surgery Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgery Assistant job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,656 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Surgical Assistant - General

Advocate Aurora Health

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$35.50 - $53.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Advocate Aurora Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 779 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Department:
37703 Aurora St. Lukes Medical Center - Surgery Room
Status:
Full time
Benefits Eligible:
Yes
Hours Per Week:
40
Schedule Details/Additional Information:
**$16,000 SIGN-ON Bonus Eligible with distance based relocation available**
Schedule/Hours:
Full-time, 2nd shift Monday - Friday from 0900-1730 with weekend and holiday call obligation. The Weekday call -1730-2230 (5-10) and 2230-0700 (1-3) and 1 or 2 weekend call shifts- 0600-1800 and or 1800-0600 in an 8-week scheduling window.
On call must arrive within 30-minutes.
Pay Range
$35.50 - $53.25
Major Responsibilities:
  • Participates in the preparatory steps of surgery; assists operating team in gathering supplies, opening room for cases, assists in lifting, transferring, positioning, preparing and draping the patient.
  • Anticipates and responds to the needs of the Surgeon, by ensuring all required supplies are available for procedures prior to incision, recognizing individual preferences.
  • Provides for a clean, safe and efficient area conducive to optimal patient care. Utilizes aseptic surgical techniques in the preparation of materials, supplies and equipment for surgical procedures (e.g., assistance with gowning and gloving; preparation and draping of the surgical area; provision of a sterile field, instruments, suture and related materials; anticipation of the Surgeons' needs; holding of retractors, observing and reporting possible breaks in aseptic technique; and assisting in maintaining a sterile, dry, unobstructed field).
  • Ensures the environmental disinfection, safety and efficiency of the operating room. This includes setting up the room for each case including moving equipment (e.g., tables, cameras, microscopes, fracture table, and instrument pans), operating the various types of equipment they have been trained to use during operating room procedures, and returning equipment post procedure. Checks the working condition of equipment and facilitates having damaged items sent out for repair. Notifies appropriate people of equipment and supply problems.
  • Acts as a resource and assists in the training of Surgical Technologists and new Surgical Assistants. Participates in department and facility work teams and assists with special projects as needed.
  • May perform specific surgical activities that are validated competencies under the direct supervision of the surgeon (i.e. the surgeon is in the same room working on the same patient). A record of the validated competencies must be recorded in the caregiver's education file.
  • May perform specific validated competencies and surgical activities such as wound closure of deep capsules, muscle, subcutaneous tissue and skin under general supervision of the surgeon (i.e. validated competencies may be delegated by the surgeon who is immediately available and able to furnish immediate assistance and direction but not necessarily present in the room when the activity is performed).
  • May perform specific validated competencies and surgical activities such as position and prep of patient on the surgical table (excluding complex fracture table, spinal frame, or head stabilizers/pins/tongs), application of the tourniquet as indicated in preparation of a procedure, securing of drains, application of the dressing, cast or immobilizer at the end of a case and safe transfer from the surgical table to transport cart/bed without supervision of the surgeon (i.e. validated competencies may be delegated by the surgeon and be performed without supervision of the surgeon and with the surgeon not present).
  • Provides competency confirmed by a sponsoring surgeon and submits documentation to the medical executive committee a minimum of every two years for approval and/or renewal.
  • Must be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served. Must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs, and to provide the care needed as described in the department's policies and procedures. Age-specific information is developed further in the departmental job standards.

Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification issued by the American Heart Association (AHA), and
  • Surgical Technologist (CST) certification issued by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) needs to be obtained within 12 months unless department leader has determined it is not required, and
  • Surgical First Assist (CSFA) certification issued by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) needs to be obtained within 12 months unless department leader has determined it is not required, or
  • Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) issued by the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) needs to be obtained within 12 months unless department leader has determined it is not required.

Education Required:
  • Advanced training beyond High School that includes the completion of an accredited or approved program in Surgical Technology.

Experience Required:
  • Typically requires 3 years of experience in a Surgical Technologist or Surgical Assistant position.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:
  • Advanced knowledge and skill in major operative surgical specialties performed.
  • Advanced knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and potential complications for procedures performed.
  • Demonstrated ability to remove skin staples and wound drains.
  • Advanced knowledge and skill of aseptic surgical techniques used in the preparation of materials, supplies and equipment for various surgical procedures and suturing.
  • Demonstrated ability to anticipate and recognize Physician's needs and changes that requires unplanned or unanticipated interventions, and responds appropriately.
  • Remain current with ongoing computer based learning modules as assigned.
  • Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
  • Basic computer proficiency.
  • Certification Addendum
  • Team members will maintain annual educational requirements for hospital based certifications (e.g. DNV, CARF or others).

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
  • Must be able to withstand a very stressful and fast-paced environment.
  • Must be able to:
  • lift up to 50 lbs. from floor to waist.
  • lift up to 20 lbs. over the head.
  • carry up to 40 lbs. a reasonable distance.
  • Must be able to:
  • push/pull with 30 lbs. of force.
  • perform a sliding transfer of 150 lbs. with a second person present.
  • Required to use foot pedals on carts or machines.
  • Exposed to the following hazards on a continuous basis: mechanical, electrical, chemical, radiation, blood and body fluids.
  • Must have functional sight and hearing.
  • Required to wear masks, gloves, goggles, and gowns.
  • Must be able to sit, stand, walk, lift, squat, bend, reach above shoulders and twist frequently during work shift.
  • Must be able to operate all equipment essential to performing the duties of the job.

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.
Our Commitment to You:
Advocate Health offers a comprehensive suite of Total Rewards: benefits and well-being programs, competitive compensation, generous retirement offerings, programs that invest in your career development and so much more - so you can live fully at and away from work, including:
Compensation
  • Base compensation listed within the listed pay range based on factors such as qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and/or training
  • Premium pay such as shift, on call, and more based on a teammate's job
  • Incentive pay for select positions
  • Opportunity for annual increases based on performance

Benefits and more
  • Paid Time Off programs
  • Health and welfare benefits such as medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
  • Family benefits such as adoption assistance and paid parental leave
  • Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
  • Educational Assistance Program

About Advocate Health
Advocate Health is the third-largest nonprofit, integrated health system in the United States, created from the combination of Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health. Providing care under the names Advocate Health Care in Illinois; Atrium Health in the Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama; and Aurora Health Care in Wisconsin, Advocate Health is a national leader in clinical innovation, health outcomes, consumer experience and value-based care. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Advocate Health services nearly 6 million patients and is engaged in hundreds of clinical trials and research studies, with Wake Forest University School of Medicine serving as the academic core of the enterprise. It is nationally recognized for its expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, pediatrics and rehabilitation, as well as organ transplants, burn treatments and specialized musculoskeletal programs. Advocate Health employs 155,000 teammates across 69 hospitals and over 1,000 care locations, and offers one of the nation's largest graduate medical education programs with over 2,000 residents and fellows across more than 200 programs. Committed to providing equitable care for all, Advocate Health provides more than $6 billion in annual community benefits.

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About Advocate Health

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Advocate Healthcare, based in Oak Lawn, Illinois, United States, is a leading figure in the health care industry. Accessible via their official website, 'advocatehealth.com', this organization provides a wide variety of medical services and treatment options. Founded in 1995 through a merger of Evangelical Health Systems Corporation and Lutheran General HealthSystem, Advocate Healthcare has grown exponentially over the years. Now, it operates more than 400 sites of care, including 12 hospitals that encompass 11 acute care hospitals, the state’s largest integrated children’s network, five Level I trauma centers, and three Level II trauma centers. Upholding their values of equality, compassion, excellence, partnership and stewardship, Advocate Healthcare's mission is centered on building lifelong relationships with patients by delivering the best health outcomes and highest level of service through an integrated approach to care and wellness.

Industry

Hospitals and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US