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Surgery Assistant Jobs in Novato, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sonrava Health

Oral Surgeon Assistant

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $29.25/hr

Overview Western Dental- Oral Surgeon Assistants perform their responsibilities as dental auxiliaries in accordance with the state Dental Practice Act. Experienced Oral Surgeon Assistants are ...

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Surgery Assistant information

See Novato, CA salary details

$15

$32

$73

How much do surgery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgery assistant in Novato, CA is $32.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.73 and $35.29 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 Novato, CA?

The most popular types of Surgery jobs in Novato, CA are:

What cities near Novato, CA are hiring for Surgery Assistant jobs?

Cities near Novato, CA with the most Surgery Assistant job openings:

Surgery Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgery Assistant job openings in Novato, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,065 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

Oral Surgeon Assistant

Vallejo, CA • On-site

Brident Dental & Orthodontics
Health Care and Social Assistance • 501 - 1,000 employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Recommended by parents

Respectful managers

Learn more about Brident Dental & Orthodonticsexternal

$22.50 - $29.25/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Oral Surgeon Assistant

Western Dental- Oral Surgeon Assistants perform their responsibilities as dental auxiliaries in accordance with the state Dental Practice Act. Experienced Oral Surgeon Assistants are responsible for maintaining excellent communication with our doctors and assisting them in all aspects of patient care. Our Oral Surgeon Assistants are trained to be experts in making our patients comfortable during treatment and providing our patients with an unparalleled customer experience. Experienced Oral Surgeon Assistants will receive additional training to learn new skills. In addition, Western Dental has programs to provide the training in order for Oral Surgeon Assistants who are new to the field to master the necessary dental skills and customer service skills to grow in our organization. Must have a current radiation safety certificate for the state in which they practice. Western Oral Surgeon Assistants take x-rays as directed by the Oral Surgeon. They are trained in dental x-ray and developing procedures as well as infection control procedures that pertain to their tasks. You will also become experts in making our patients comfortable during the x-ray process and providing an unparalleled patient experience.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist the Oral Surgeon at the chair while they are engaged in any treatment of patients.
  • Must anticipate dentist's needs and be prepared for next steps.
  • Ensure all OSHA, Dental Board, and WDS policies and procedures are properly followed.
  • Maintain proper patient treatment records.
  • Ability to take Blood Pressure.
  • Give pre and post-operative instructions – within the limits designated by the Oral Surgeon.
  • Provide oral hygiene instructions to the patient
  • Turn on all units, switches, and water before patient sits down
  • Stocks supplies in oratories, restrooms, lab, etc. as needed
  • Informs Floor Supervisor when supplies need to be re-ordered
  • Informs Floor Supervisor of broken or malfunctioning equipment
  • Performs all duties of a Sterilizer when deemed necessary
  • Ability to build good rapport with patients and staff

Qualifications:

  • A minimum of a High School Diploma
  • Certified in the state you are applying as an RDA (CA, AZ, NV)
  • Must have a current X-Ray License
  • CPR and ACLS certificates required, OMSA or DAANCE preferred
  • Bilingual preferred (Spanish/ English)
  • Travelling required
  • Open availability

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