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Surgical Assistant Operating Room Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 May 30, 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.

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 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 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.

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:

First Surgical Assistant - Operating Room, Full Time, Day

Mary Washington Hospital (MediCorp Health System)

Fredericksburg, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Start the day excited to make a difference...end the day knowing you did. Come join our team.

Job Summary:
Under the direct and indirect supervision of the attending physician and in a cohesive manner with all surgical staff functions in a surgical assist role, the First Surgical Assistant assists the team in providing quality individualized patient care. The First Surgical Assistant will demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to the age of the patients served Additional, the Surgical Assistant performs other responsibilities as assigned.

$10,000 Sign On Bonus to external applicants

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

  • Under the supervision of the operating surgeon, assists in skin closure, subcutaneous closure and ties, facia closure and ties, closure and ties of peritoneum, tying deep vessels, incising tissue, and performs haemostatic techniques.
  • Assists with procedural set up and patient preparedness for specific procedures in positioning, prepping and draping.
  • Observes aseptic techniques in preparing for and assisting with procedures.
  • Participates in patient transport, room turnover as indicated by unit activity to facilitate utilization of services in a cost effective manner.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Functions to present skills and knowledge levels reflective of education and experience at the assistant position at or a minimum of 90 days and or present reference of equivalent experience required.
  • Registered and licensed with the Virginia Board of Medicine as a Surgical Assistant required.
  • Certified First Surgical Assistant with the National Board of National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants (NCCSA)
  • Virginia Board of Medicine registered Scrub Tech preferred.
  • AHA BLS CPR provider certification required.

As an EOE/AA employer, the organization will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.


Required

Physical Requirements: Constant (67-100% of workday) walking, standing, use of arms and hands; frequent (34-66% of workday) bending, stooping, kneeling, and squatting; ability to lift 35 lbs.; ability to push and pull 20 lbs.; auditory and visual skills to include color determination; ability to work in confined spaces; ability to reach above/overhead.

Mental Requirements: Possesses critical thinking and analytical skills. Ability to multi-task. Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team. Capacity to cope with difficult situations. Ability to tolerate irregular hours including evenings, nights, and weekends.

Environmental Requirements and Exposure Hazards: Potential risk of exposure to radiation and toxic chemicals. Potential for exposure to bloodborne pathogens; must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment.

*Clinical positions in Mary Washington Home Health and/or Hospice must also meet driving requirements.

"It is the policy of Mary Washington Healthcare to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with a disability who are applicants for employment or Associates."