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Surgery Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Surgical Assistant, Senior

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$41.54 - $67.46/hr

Surgical Assistant, Senior Job Code: SS1482 ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world-class UVA ...

Surgical Assistant, Senior Sign-On Bonus Available!! 4x10-hour shifts Shifts with call rotation on weekends and holidays. Job Code: SS1482 ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where ...

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Surgery Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$28

$65

How much do surgery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgery assistant in Reston, VA is $28.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $31.25 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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Surgery jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Surgery Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Surgery Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Surgery Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,427 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Surgical Assistant/OR First Assist

VHC Health

Arlington, VA • On-site

$45.18 - $73.17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


VHC Health rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Title
Surgical Assistant/OR First Assist
Job Description
Purpose & Scope:
The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under direct supervision of the attending surgeon and in accordance with the goals of the Department of Surgery and the philosophy of the Division of Nursing and the policy of the Medical Staff. Interpretive skills, frequent interactive and consultative associations, are inherent in the position. The ability to retrieve, communicate, or otherwise present information in a written, auditory, or visual fashion is essential. The primary method to express or exchange ideas is through the spoken word. Written, telephone, and manual dexterity skills are required for this position.
Education:
Satisfaction of education requirements needed to obtain licensure as a Surgical Assistant by the Virginia Department of Health is required.
Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred.
Experience:
Three years of operating room experience is preferred.
Certification/Licensure:
Licensed Surgical Assistant by the Virginia Department of Health Professions required.
Certified in Surgical Assisting preferred.
Additional Job Description
At VHC Health, every role contributes to exceptional care, better outcomes, and stronger communities.
In addition to your base compensation, VHC Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage (subject to eligibility requirements), as well as additional wellness and retirement benefits designed to support our employees and their families.
VHC Health is committed to wage transparency and equitable pay practices. The compensation offered for this position-whether expressed as an annual salary or hourly rate-is determined based on a variety of legitimate, non-discriminatory factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and experience, skill level, shift differentials (where applicable), internal equity, and current market conditions.
The posted hiring range reflects the range VHC Health, in good faith, believes is appropriate for this role at the time of posting. This range may be adjusted in the future based on business needs or market changes. No portion of compensation is considered earned until it is vested and determined in accordance with the terms of applicable policies and benefit plans. The availability and amount of any bonuses, incentives, or other benefits are subject to the terms of those plans and may be modified at the sole discretion of VHC Health, in accordance with applicable law.
VHC Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.
VHC Health maintains a drug-free workplace. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited at all VHC Health locations.

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