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Surgery Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Dental" We're looking for a Traveling Oral Surgery Assistant professional who will work closely with our Dentist. Our commitment is in everything we do. Smile Brands is strongly rooted in encouraging ...

... surgery space that combines the best of private practice with the best of private equity ... We seek a dedicated and detail-oriented Surgical Assistant to join our dynamic team at Aurora Oral ...

Surgical Assistant

Corona, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

... surgery space that combines the best of private practice with the best of private equity ... We seek a dedicated and detail-oriented Surgical Assistant to join our dynamic team at Corona Oral ...

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Surgery Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$28

$65

How much do surgery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgery assistant in Riverside, CA is $28.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $31.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are surgery assistants?

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.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Surgery jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Surgery jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Surgery Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Surgery Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Surgery Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,594 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Traveling Oral Surgery Assistant

Traveling Oral Surgery Assistant

Smile Brands

Fontana, CA • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Smile Brands rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

603rd of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
"You belong here with us at Bright Now! Dental"
We're looking for a Traveling Oral Surgery Assistant professional who will work closely with our Dentist.
Our commitment is in everything we do.
Smile Brands is strongly rooted in encouraging and empowering people to branch out beyond their comfort zones.
We believe in individual journeys of personal and professional discovery in an environment where people feel safe, supported, welcomed and seen
Schedule (days/hours)
Monday-Saturday
Responsibilities
  • Prepare treatment rooms and surgical suites for oral surgery procedures.
  • Welcome patients, review medical histories, and ensure all required consent forms are completed.
  • Assist the oral surgeon during surgical procedures, including extractions, dental implant placement, bone grafting, biopsies, and other oral and maxillofacial surgeries.
  • Anticipate the surgeon's needs by preparing and passing instruments, materials, and equipment.
  • Maintain a sterile surgical environment by following OSHA, CDC, and California infection control guidelines.
  • Take and process digital dental radiographs, panoramic X-rays, and CBCT scans (with appropriate certification).
  • Prepare and maintain surgical instruments, handpieces, and equipment, ensuring proper sterilization and functionality.
  • Monitor and document patient vital signs during surgical procedures as directed by the oral surgeon and within California regulations.
  • Provide chairside support before, during, and after surgery to ensure patient comfort and safety.
  • Educate patients on pre-operative and post-operative care instructions, including medication, diet, and recovery expectations.
  • Assist with patient recovery and discharge, ensuring patients meet established recovery criteria before leaving the office.
  • Maintain accurate patient records, treatment notes, and electronic health records (EHR).
  • Manage inventory of surgical supplies, implants, medications, and equipment; notify management when supplies need replenishment.
  • Coordinate referrals, treatment scheduling, and follow-up appointments with patients and referring dental offices.
  • Respond calmly and effectively to medical emergencies while following established emergency protocols.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations.
  • Collaborate with the clinical team to deliver exceptional patient care and create a positive patient experience.
  • Participate in continuing education and training to remain current on oral surgery techniques, safety standards, and industry best practices.

Qualifications
  • Must have certs to be hired:
  • cpr or bls or acls
  • x-ray or registered dental assistant license
  • willing to travel
  • must have os experience

Compensation
$20-$23/hr.
About Us
Benefits are determined by employment status/hours worked and include paid time off ("PTO"), health, dental, vision, health savings account, telemedicine, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability insurance, employee discount programs, pet insurance, and a 401k plan.
Smile Brands supports over 650 affiliated dental practices across 28 states all focused on a single mission of delivering Smiles For Everyone!® Smiles for patients, providers, employees, and community partners. Everyone. Our growing portfolio of affiliated dental brands and practice models range from large regional brands to uniquely branded local practices. This role is associated with the affiliated dental office listed at the top of the job posting on our career site.
Smile Brands Inc. and all Affiliates are Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive workplace for all employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, creed, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), religion, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical condition), protected hair style and texture (The CROWN Act), genetic information, sexual orientation, military and veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. If you would like to request an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at careers@smilebrands.com

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