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Surgery Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Steven D Darmstadt DDS Inc

Oral Surgery Assistant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.25/hr

Steven D Darmstadt DDS Inc is looking for a skilled and dedicated Oral Surgery Assistant to join our team in Anaheim, CA! This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside an experienced oral surgeon ...

Vartanian Dental Group

Dental Assistant

Mission Viejo, CA

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

... Assistant/OMSA for an opportunity to join our dedicated multispecialty practice ... If you thrive in a fast-paced surgical environment, enjoy providing outstanding patient care, and ...

Allied OMS LLC

Surgical Assistant

Chino Hills, CA · On-site

... 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 ...

Allied OMS LLC

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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All JobsSurgery JobsSurgery Assistant JobsSurgery Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Surgery Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$28

$65

How much do surgery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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 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 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:

Surgery Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgery Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% 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.

Oral Surgery Assistant

Arthur Johnson III DDS PC

Mission Viejo, CA • On-site

$26 - $35/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Paid time off

We are seeking an experienced Oral Surgery Assistant to join our team.
This full-time position will support our practices located in Covina and Mission Viejo.
Requirements:
  • 3–5 years of oral surgery assisting experience preferred
  • Certification preferred
  • Experience with implant procedures and anesthesia required
  • Experience with digital scanning is a plus
  • Strong clinical skills, attention to detail, and patient care focus

Schedule & Compensation:
  • Full-time position
  • Competitive hourly rate: $26–$35/hour, based on experience
  • Bonus structure and 401(k) available

If you are a skilled and dependable surgical assistant looking to grow in a high-quality oral surgery practice, we encourage you to apply.