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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Facility Description DMC Harper University Hospital has distinguished itself in surgery and medicine and is known for its clinical expertise and innovative research. A specialty referral hospital ...

Facility Description DMC Harper University Hospital has distinguished itself in surgery and medicine and is known for its clinical expertise and innovative research. A specialty referral hospital ...

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Surgical Assistant information

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$11

$23

$54

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Michigan is $23.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Surgical Assistant?

A surgical assistant helps a surgeon in the operating room. Surgical assistants assess the operating area, apply sutures, insert and remove intravenous (IV) tubes, dress surgical wounds, and transport patients to and from the operating room. A surgical assistant is responsible for passing scalpels, forceps, and other medical instruments to the doctor during the surgery. Surgical assistants have completed an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree, or a certificate program to train them to provide direct support during medical procedures.

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

To thrive as a Surgical Assistant, you need a solid background in human anatomy, sterile technique, and surgical procedures, typically evidenced by a surgical assisting certificate or associate's degree. Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room technology, and patient monitoring systems is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient surgical operations, minimize risks, and support positive patient outcomes in high-stakes environments.

What are some common challenges Surgical Assistants face during procedures, and how can they effectively manage them?

Surgical Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining sterile fields, anticipating the surgeon’s needs in high-pressure situations, and quickly adapting to unexpected changes during procedures. Effective communication and strong attention to detail are essential to overcome these obstacles. Building experience across various surgical specialties and proactively coordinating with the surgical team can help Surgical Assistants remain prepared and responsive, ensuring patient safety and smooth workflow in the operating room.

What are surgical assistants?

Surgical assistants are trained healthcare professionals who support surgeons during operations. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, positioning patients, handing instruments to surgeons, and performing tasks such as suturing wounds or controlling bleeding under the surgeon's supervision. They work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other surgical team members to ensure procedures run smoothly and safely. Surgical assistants play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes and enhancing the efficiency of surgical procedures.

What is the highest paid surgical assistant?

The highest paid surgical assistants typically work in specialized surgical environments or with advanced certifications, earning salaries above the national average. Experienced surgical assistants with additional skills or certifications in areas like sterile processing or advanced procedures can earn higher wages, often exceeding $60,000 annually. Salary varies based on location, experience, and employer type.

What is the difference between Surgical Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgical AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical Assistant (CSA), Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentAssist during surgeries, work closely with surgeons in operating roomsPrepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment, assist during procedures
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

While both Surgical Assistants and Surgical Technologists work in surgical settings, Surgical Assistants typically have advanced certifications and assist directly during surgeries, whereas Surgical Technologists focus on preparing the operating room and supporting the surgical team. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Surgical jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,787 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
First Assist Surg Tech III

First Assist Surg Tech III

MyMichigan Health

Midland, MI • On-site

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


MyMichigan Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 179 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

594th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Summary
This position prepares the surgical suite for the procedure by assisting the surgical technologist along with the registered nurse in gathering equipment, instruments, and supplies to perform the procedure. Assure all supplies and equipment are available for the procedure and in working condition. Assists the RN circulator and anesthesia provider in preparation of the patient to include foley catheter placement, tourniquet placement, placement of intravenous catheters, cricoid pressure application, and other procedures as needed. This position assists the surgeon by providing exposure, aid in hemostasis, closure and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with maximum results for the patient. In providing proper draping, retracting, suctioning, sponging, suturing, tissue handling and cautery techniques. The assistant will apply appropriate dressing material specific to procedure. This position assists the surgeon in the care of the patient while in the operating room through utilization of the operating room team concept.
The operating room has a career ladder and the details are as follows:
FA I= A surgical technologist who was on the job trained as a surgical technologist and who is on the job trained as a First Assistant, no formal training (grandfathered in their role)
FAII = A surgical technologist with a certification (CST) in surgical technology, and on the job trained as a First Assistant (CST)
FA III= A surgical technologist with a certification (CST) in surgical technology, and certified as a CSFA or CSA but on the job trained (CSFA)
FA IV= A surgical technologist with a certification (CST) in surgical technology, and/or formally educated by an accredited program as a first assistant and/or certified from their formal education as a CSFA or CSA; this would include the Master's prepared First Assistants
Responsibilities
(50%)* Demonstrates knowledge of surgical procedure, anatomy and physiology, and operative techniques related to specific procedure.
(20%)* Assures all necessary supplies, equipment or instruments are opened or available. Ensure items are charged for appropriately by confirming with nurse and surgical technologist.
(20%)* Assists physician as directed with proper positioning, draping, retracting, suctioning, sponging, tissue handling, cautery techniques, stapling devices, and suturing.
(10%)* Assists team members in transportation, positioning and total care of patients.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Demonstrates a broad range of knowledge with proficiency in preparation of surgical procedures and has versatility in staffing as a surgical technologist if needed.
Participates in orientation, ongoing competencies, education, and staff development.(including staff meetings).
Participates in regulatory surveys.
Participates in performance improvement activities.
Fulfills on-call responsibilities and extra shift coverage as needed.
Demonstrates a positive, courteous, and helpful attitude toward patients, visitors, physicians, and co-workers.
Remains calm and efficient when working in stressful situations.
Shares information and reports significant changes and./or abnormal findings to appropriate team members.
Attend and/or participate in professional association activities and programs to assure being current on regulations, guidelines, and professional standards of care.
Remain current on new developments in healthcare by reading professional journals and attending seminars when applicable.
Other duties as assigned.
Certifications and Licensures
Credential:CSFA: Cert Surgical First Assistant
Equivalent Experience: Certification is conferred by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), and the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA), and American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA). Initial certification as a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA), and Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C) is based upon satisfactory performance of the national certifying examination from each organization's credentialing body, following completion of an accredited program in surgical assisting or another pathway acceptable to the NBSTSA, NSAA, AND ABSA. If not obtained, must be obtained within two years of signing job description.
Qualification Source:
Essential: true
Credential:BLS: Basic Life Support
Equivalent Experience: Within 1 month of hire or transfer
Qualification Source: AHA
Essential: true
Required Education
Education: High School Diploma or GED
Equivalent Experience:
Education Specialization: GENSTUDY
Essential: true
Education: Technical Certificate
Equivalent Experience: Knowledge of surgical procedures and standards of practice acquired through a surgical technology program accredited through Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Program (CAAHEP) which upon completion may certify for certified surgical technologist exam or completion of a certified Surgical Technology program which upon completion of program may receive a National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) certification. Certifications must be valid with National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) and National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
Education Specialization:
Essential: true
Other Information
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING AND SKILLS:
Maintain certification CSFA, CSA, or SA-C.
First assistant must complete skills/practice competency as described in the career ladder for current first assistant level.
Manual dexterity and mechanical skills needed to properly use and hold surgical instruments.
Interpersonal skills needed to communicate successfully with individuals and groups and interact with people at all levels to communicate ideas and concepts in a clear and understandable manner.
5 years' experience as a CST preferred.
MyMichigan Health is a technology driven organization and employees need to demonstrate competency in Microsoft® Windows. An employee may be required to participate in further learning opportunities offered by MyMichigan Health.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS AND TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
Exposure to stressful situations, including those involving public contact, as well as, trauma, grief and death.
Able to wear personal protective equipment that includes latex materials or appropriate substitute if required for your position.
Is able to move freely about facility with or without an assisted device and must be able to perform the functions of the job as outlined in the job description.
Overall vision and hearing is necessary with or without assisted device(s).
Frequently required to sit/stand/walk for long periods of time. May require frequent postural changes such as stooping, kneeling or crouching.
Some exposure to blood borne pathogens and other potentially infectious material. Must follow MyMichigan Health bloodborne pathogen and TB testing as required.
Ability to handle multiple tasks, get along with others, work independently, regular and predictable attendance and ability to stay awake.
Overall dexterity is required including handling, reaching, grasping, fingering and feeling. May require repetition of these movements on a regular to frequent basis.
Physical Demand Level: Medium. Must be able to occasionally (0-33% of the workday) lift or carry 21-50 lbs., frequently 34-66% of the workday 20 lbs. and or Walk/Stand/Push/Pull of Arm/Leg controls and constantly (67-100% or the workday) 10 lbs.
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