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Surgical Assistant Operating Room Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surgical Assistant

Clinton, MD · On-site

$35.68 - $64.71/hr

The Surgical Assistant practices in collaboration with and at the direction of the surgeon during ... Display safety consciousness in all activities in the Operating Room. * Provides care in a ...

Surgical Assistant

Clinton, MD · On-site

$35.68 - $64.71/hr

The Surgical Assistant practices in collaboration with and at the direction of the surgeon during ... Display safety consciousness in all activities in the Operating Room. * Provides care in a ...

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Surgical Assistant Operating Room information

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$13

$27

$62

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

As of Jun 22, 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.
More about Surgical Assistant Operating Room jobs
What cities are hiring for Surgical Assistant Operating Room jobs? Cities with the most Surgical Assistant Operating Room job openings:
What states have the most Surgical Assistant Operating Room jobs? States with the most job openings for Surgical Assistant Operating Room jobs include:
Surgical Assistant - Operating Room - Clermont Hospital

Surgical Assistant - Operating Room - Clermont Hospital

Bon Secours Mercy Health

Batavia, OH

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 hours ago


Bon Secours Mercy Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 465 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

368th of 875 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Thank you for considering a career at Mercy Health!

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Work Shift:

Days/Evenings (United States of America)

Clermont Hospital - Surgical Assistant

Full-Time - 40Hrs/Week

Shift - Days/Evenings

Job Summary:

The Surgical Assistant serves in the assistant role in the provision of care to patients undergoing a surgical procedure under the supervision of the provider in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations and within the policies, procedures, and guidelines of the organization. The Surgical Assistant is an entry-level practitioner and focused on learning and growing in this role.

Essential Functions:

  • Performs surgical hand scrub, gowning, and gloving according to policy. Routinely functions as first or second assist on assigned cases. Functions in the Surgical Tech capacity fulfilling the scrub role as assigned, demonstrating knowledge and implementation of sterile technique. Checks all instruments to ensure they are in proper working order prior to use. Assists with sponge, sharps, and instrument counts per policy and procedures. Handles specimens in accordance with hospital policy and procedure.

  • Protects patient information based on hospital policy and government regulations to assure information is kept confidential. Participates in unit and hospital efforts to reduce adverse patient care events. Actively participates in the Universal Protocol procedures that assure correct site surgery.

  • Communicates effectively with the circulating nurse upon observance of any missing or malfunctioning instruments and/or indication of any compromise to sterility. Reports any implants device, catheters, drains and packing circulator.

  • Assists with OR case preparation: Utilizes surgeon's preference list to procure equipment and arrange proper placement in the OR; Utilizes aseptic technique when establishing the sterile field, opening supplies and instruments; Assists with monitoring and maintaining the sterile field.

  • Assists with patient positioning, skin clipping and prepping, foley catheterization and draping.

  • Under the direct observation of the surgeon, may: Insert secondary trocars; Place instruments through trocars; Utilize power equipment and stapling devices (other than skin stapling); Inject infiltration local anesthetic medications excluding Exparel. During surgical procedures: Use sponges and suction; Cauterization processes; Appropriately place and manipulate retractors (with or without padding); Irrigate the wound site(s); Cut suture material, handle hemostats, and tie suture; Provides assistance securing drains to tissue. Closes the surgical wound: May assist suture closing of fascia layer under the direct observation of the surgeon; Sutures the subcutaneous tissues and skin including with the use of a skin stapler if needed. Applies appropriate wound dressings, including medicated dressings.

This document is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as required by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.

Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (required)

  • Completion of a Surgical Assistant Program (required)

Required Licensing & Certifications:

  • BLS Basic Life Support - American Heart Association (preferred upon hire, must obtain from approved source prior to direct patient care)

  • Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) - National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA), or National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants (NCCSA) (required) (if hired in Virginia prior to July 1, 2020, preferred; if hired in Cincinnati, preferred).

  • If employed in Virginia, must be registered with the Virginia Board of Medicine. (required)

Experience:

  • One year health care experience (preferred)

Skills & Abilities:

Hard/Tech/Clinical Skills:

  • Monitor patient conditions during treatment

  • Completes specific, routine task

  • Requires basic reading, writing, or simple arithmetic skill

  • May operate basic equipment/machinery.

  • Ability to Follow Instructions

Soft/Interpersonal Skills:

  • Attention to detail

  • Critical thinking

  • Teamwork

  • Conflict resolution

  • Active listening

  • Relationship building

  • Demonstrates a caring attitude and intentional caring behaviors in interpersonal interactions and patient/family care.

  • Communicates clearly all pertinent patient information to other members of the health care team.

  • Possess Surgical Conscience

  • Anticipate Needs

  • Flexible

  • Assists with performing circulator skills and tasks

  • Takes direction

  • Able to work under pressure

  • Professionalism

  • Move with a sense of urgency

Training:

None

Mercy Health is an equal opportunity employer.

As a Mercy Health associate, you're part of a Misson that matters. We support your well-being - personally and professionally. Our benefits are built to grow with you and meet your unique needs, every step of the way.

What we offer
Competitive pay, incentives, referral bonuses and 403(b) with employer contributions (when eligible)
Medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, HAS/FSA options, life insurance, mental health resources and discounts
Paid time off, parental and FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, backup care for children and elders
Tuition assistance, professional development and continuing education support

Benefits may vary based on the market and employment status.

Department:

Inpatient Surgery - Clermont

It is our policy to abide by all Federal and State laws, as well as, the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). Accordingly, all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health- Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours - Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com.


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