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Surgery Assistant Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

Nurse

Madison, AL · On-site

Previous oral surgery experience is a plus but not required. Role and Responsibilities The nurse will perform routine nursing duties and assist with the other related duties involved in providing ...

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Surgery Assistant information

See Athens, AL salary details

$12

$26

$60

How much do surgery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgery assistant in Athens, AL is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $28.99 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 cities near Athens, AL are hiring for Surgery Assistant jobs?

Cities near Athens, AL with the most Surgery Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgery Assistant job openings in Athens, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,130 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Scrub Assistant Outpatient- OR Ortho Spine Tower- FT- 1st Shift

Huntsville Hospital Health System

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Huntsville Hospital Health System rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 208 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

698th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

The Scrub Assistant, under the guidance of the RN provides services to surgical patients, maintaining an aseptic environment. The scrub assistant assists in the transporting of patients.

Qualifications

EDUCATION: High School Diploma or GED. 

EDUCATION PREFERRED: Successful completion of a Scrub Tech program

EXPERIENCE: Previous Scrub Assistant experience preferred.

ADDITIONAL SKILLS/ABILITIES: BCLS required (must be completed within the Provisionary Period).

Employment Type: OTHER

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