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$62

How much do surgical assistant operating room jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant operating room in the United States is $27.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Surgical Assistant in the Operating Room typically collaborate with surgeons and the surgical team during procedures?

A Surgical Assistant in the Operating Room works closely with the lead surgeon and the rest of the surgical team by anticipating the needs of the operation and providing hands-on support throughout procedures. This includes tasks like positioning the patient, maintaining a clear operative field, handling instruments, and assisting with suturing and controlling bleeding. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as the Surgical Assistant must be able to quickly respond to cues from the surgeon and adapt to changing situations in a fast-paced environment. Collaboration also extends to pre- and post-operative briefings to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.

What qualifications does a surgical assistant need?

A surgical assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA). Relevant skills include knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques, and some positions may require prior experience in healthcare or assisting in operating rooms.

What is the highest paid surgical assistant?

The highest paid surgical assistants are often those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or certifications such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA). Salaries can vary by region and healthcare facility, but top earners may make over $70,000 annually, especially in high-demand specialties or urban areas.

What are Surgical Assistants in the Operating Room?

Surgical Assistants in the Operating Room are healthcare professionals who support surgeons during surgical procedures. They help by preparing the operating room, positioning patients, passing instruments, controlling bleeding, and closing incisions under the supervision of a surgeon. Their role is vital to ensuring surgeries run smoothly and safely, contributing to positive patient outcomes. Surgical Assistants work alongside surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other surgical staff to deliver high-quality care throughout the operation.

What is the difference between Surgical Assistant Operating Room vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgical Assistant Operating RoomSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical Assistant (CSA), Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms, assisting surgeons during proceduresPrepping operating rooms, sterilizing instruments, assisting during surgery
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

The Surgical Assistant Operating Room and Surgical Technologist roles both support surgical teams but differ mainly in responsibilities and credentials. Surgical Assistants actively assist during surgeries and hold specialized certifications, while Surgical Technologists prepare the operating room and assist indirectly. Both roles are vital in surgical settings and often work together to ensure smooth procedures.

Which pays more, CNA or surgical tech?

Surgical technologists typically earn higher wages than CNAs due to their specialized training and responsibilities in the operating room. While CNAs often work in patient care settings with lower certification requirements, surgical techs usually require post-secondary education and certification, which can lead to higher pay. Salary differences vary by location and experience but generally favor surgical technologists in the healthcare field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surgical Assistant Operating Room, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical Assistant Operating Room, you need a thorough understanding of surgical procedures, anatomy, sterile techniques, and typically a certification such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent training. Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room protocols, and electronic health record systems is essential. Excellent teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient surgeries and support optimal patient outcomes in high-stakes environments.

How do I become an operating room assistant?

To become an operating room assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles may require post-secondary education or certification in healthcare support. Relevant skills include knowledge of medical terminology, patient care, and familiarity with surgical environments; certifications such as CPR may also be beneficial. On-the-job training is common, and experience working in healthcare or sterile environments can improve job prospects.
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Surgical Assistant Operating Room jobs near you
Certified Surgical Assistant - Operating Room

Certified Surgical Assistant - Operating Room

Halifax Health

Daytona Beach, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Halifax Health rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

730th of 873 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Variable (United States of America)
Certified Surgical Assistant - Operating Room
The Surgical Assistant acts as first assistant to the physicians, assisting in the intra-operative phase including draping, suturing, clamping, and exposure of the surgical field. This position is skilled in assisting on surgical procedures on patients from all age groups including newborn, pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric.
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- Graduated from an accredited Physician's Assistant program or school of nursing, diploma from a school of medicine, or certificate of surgical technology.
- Certified by the Association of Surgical Technologists or licensed as an RN, PA certificate, or MD licensure.
- Two years previous OR experience preferred
- Good manual dexterity

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