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Surgical Assistant Operating Room Jobs in Alaska

Provide nursing care in the Operating Room for surgical patients * Support elective and emergency procedures across multiple specialties * Assist with abdominal, thoracic, urology, ENT, plastics ...

Verify surgical consent, review medications, and prepare patients physically and emotionally for surgery. Intraoperative Nursing Care: Assist in preparing the operating room (OR) environment ...

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Surgical Assistant Operating Room information

What is a surgical assistant 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.

How does a surgical assistant 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 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.

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.

Are surgical assistants in high demand?

Surgical assistants are in high demand due to the growing need for surgical procedures and the increasing complexity of surgeries. They often work in operating rooms alongside surgeons, requiring certification and strong technical skills, which contribute to steady employment opportunities.

How do you become a surgical assistant operating room?

To become a surgical assistant in the operating room, one typically needs to complete a postsecondary program in surgical technology or a related healthcare field, obtain certification such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), and gain clinical experience. Strong knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques is essential for working effectively in the operating room environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a surgical assistant operating room?

To become a surgical assistant in the operating room, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with completion of a surgical technology program or relevant healthcare training. Certification, such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA), is often required or preferred, and strong knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques is essential.

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Surgical Assistant Operating Room jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Surgical Assistant Operating Room job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant Operating Room job openings in Alaska as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Certified First Assistant - Operating Room

Ketchikan, AK • On-site

PeaceHealth
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

$44.58 - $66.88/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Collaborate with the surgeon and healthcare team during surgery to ensure a safe operation and optimal patient outcomes.

  • Prepare the patient and surgical site, including positioning, shaving, catheterization, and draping.

  • Provide exposure, maintain hemostasis, and assist with administering local anesthesia during surgical procedures.


PeaceHealth rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 175 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

164th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Description

Join Us in Ketchikan, Alaska – Where Work Meets Adventure! 

Looking for a career that comes with an incredible lifestyle?  Would you like to be part of a mission driven healthcare system dedicated to exceptional medicine and compassionate care?   If your answer is yes, consider joining the OR team in a Certified First Assistant role at PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center in Ketchikan, Alaska.  

Position details: 

  • Role: Full-time Certified First Assist 
  • Schedule: Work 8-hour Day shifts, 40 hours per week
  • Hospital: Ketchikan Medical Center is a 25-bed critical access hospital with level IV trauma center
  • Unit: 4 OR Suites: ortho, general, gyn, pediatric dental, ENT, trauma and urology surgeries

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Why you'll love Ketchikan:   Ketchikan offers more than just a job—it’s a chance to live in one of Alaska’s most scenic and culturally rich communities. Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and the “Gateway to Alaska,” Ketchikan is surrounded by lush rainforests, majestic mountains, and the sparkling waters of the Inside Passage.

  • Natural Beauty Everywhere: Imagine waking up to views of the Inside Passage, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting right outside your door.
  • Rich Culture & History: Ketchikan is home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles and a thriving arts scene, blending Native heritage with modern creativity.
  • Small-Town Charm with Modern Amenities: On an island with a population of 14,000, Ketchikan offers a peaceful, friendly community, where you’ll great dining, local shops, and essential services.
  • Adventure at Your Fingertips: Whether you love boating, exploring trails, or simply enjoying the northern lights, Ketchikan offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
  • Gateway to Alaska: With regular ferry and flights, you’re never too far from the rest of the world—but far enough to enjoy a truly unique lifestyle.

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What we offer: 

  • An hourly wage range of $44.58 - $66.88.
  • Generous Relocation Assistance
  • Hiring Bonus
  • A comprehensive benefits package
  • Paid Time off with no waiting period
  • A supportive and collaborative team 
  • A mission driven healthcare system 

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What you'll do: 

Responsible for practicing in collaboration with and at the direction of the surgeon during the intraoperative phase of the perioperative experience. Collaborates during surgery with the surgeon and the healthcare team in performing a safe operation with optimal outcomes for the patient.

  • Accumulates the appropriate surgical armamentarium.
  • Positions the patient on the operating room table.
  • Preps patient for surgical procedures (shave, catheterize, drape, etc.).
  • Provides exposure for the surgical procedure.
  • Provides hemostasis by suction, cauterization, clamping, suturing or ligation.
  • Administers local anesthesia as directed by the surgeon.
  • Places dressing.
  • Maintains accurate, legible and confidential records. Completes documentation pertinent to patient medical record.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

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What you bring: 

  • Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology Program 
  • Completion of an Accredited Certified First Assist Program and completion of a mentored internship with a minimum of 120 hours of clinical experience demonstrating the ability to function as a CFA
  • A Certified First Assistant (CFA), or In lieu of CFA may consider a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) and/or Surgical Assistant Certified (SA-C) 
  • A Basic Life Support Certification for healthcare provider

Preferred:

  • Minimum of 1 year Demonstrated training and minimum of one year of experience and current competence in performing CFA tasks preferred.
  • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

Skills

  • Well organized, detail oriented and self-motivated. (Required)
  • Ability to coordinate activities and work collaboratively with others. (Required)
  • Ability to execute detailed procedures with accuracy and precision. (Required)
  • Basic computer/keyboarding skills including MS Office applications. (Required)
  • Understanding of operating room protocols. (Required)

Working Conditions

Lifting

  • Patient handling no greater than 35 lbs. without the use of assistive equipment and/or devices (NIOSH).
  • Ability to move around area with occasional sitting.
  • Ability to move around area with occasional sitting.
  • Frequent Manual Dexterity and Tactile Sensitivity.
  • Frequent push/ pull/ carry/ stoop/ bend/ reach.
  • Occasional Kneeling.

Environmental Conditions

  • Exposure to biohazard, body fluids and airborne particles.
  • Time spent on site in medical/hospital setting.

Mental/Visual

  • Vision and hearing required within normal limits (glasses, contacts, hearing aids permitted).
  • Ability to communicate and exchange accurate information.

For questions or additional information, please contact Lisa Wishard at Lwishard@peacehealth.org

PeaceHealth is committed to the overall wellbeing of our caregivers: physical, emotional, financial, social, and spiritual. We offer caregivers a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package. Some of the many benefits included in this package are full medical/dental/vision coverage; 403b retirement plan employer base and matching contributions; paid time off; employer-paid life and disability insurance with additional buyup coverage options; tuition and continuing education reimbursement; wellness benefits, and expanded EAP and mental health program.

See how PeaceHealth is committed to Inclusivity, Respect for Diversity and Cultural Humility.

For full consideration of your skills and abilities, please attach a current resume with your application. EEO Affirmative Action Employer/Vets/Disabled in accordance with applicable local, state or federal laws.


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About PeaceHealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, WA, is a not-for-profit Catholic health system employing approximately 16,000 caregivers, a multi-specialty medical group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities in Washington, Oregon, Alaska. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. Today, the legacy of its founding Sisters continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Get a feeling for the Spirit of PeaceHealth through this three-minute video, and visit us on Facebook or LinkedIn! We offer competitive compensation, a robust benefitspackage and a collaborative, Mission-driven work environment! To learn more please visit: jobs.peacehealth.org. Questions? Review our Employment FAQor email Recruitment@peacehealth.org. Please note this email does not accept resumes or applications.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Vancouver, WA, US

Year founded

1890

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