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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Certified Surgical Assistant (CSFA) Operating Room 0.80 - 0.90 FTE, 64 - 72 Hours a Pay Period Days, Hours between 6:30 am - 3 pm or 8 am - 4:30 pm (Late Stay Requirement) Weekends: Weekend Call ...

Certified Surgical Assistant (CSFA) Operating Room 0.80 - 0.90 FTE, 64 - 72 Hours a Pay Period Days, Hours between 6:30 am - 3 pm or 8 am - 4:30 pm (Late Stay Requirement) Weekends: Weekend Call ...

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Surgical Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$26

$61

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Minnesota is $26.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $29.42 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?

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 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.

Is becoming a surgical assistant hard?

Becoming a surgical assistant requires completing relevant education or training, such as a certificate or associate degree, and gaining clinical experience. The role demands attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments, making it a challenging but achievable career path for those committed to healthcare. Certification may also be required depending on the state or facility.

What degree is needed for a surgical assistant?

A surgical assistant typically needs at least an associate degree in surgical technology, health sciences, or a related field. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree or certification, such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) credential, to demonstrate competence and meet employment standards.

What do you do as a surgical assistant?

A surgical assistant supports surgeons during procedures by preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and passing tools. They may also help with patient positioning, tissue retraction, and maintaining a sterile environment, often requiring certification and knowledge of surgical protocols.

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Surgical jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Surgical Assistant jobs in Minnesota?

For Surgical Assistant jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,946 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Certified Surgical Assistant

Winona Health

Winona, MN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Winona Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

719th of 1,064 rated hospitals


Job description

Certified Surgical Assistant (CSFA)
Operating Room
0.80 - 0.90 FTE, 64 - 72 Hours a Pay Period
Days, Hours between 6:30 am - 3 pm or 8 am - 4:30 pm (Late Stay Requirement)
Weekends: Weekend Call Rotation
Holidays: Holiday Call Rotation
*$15,000 Sign-On Bonus
*Starting Pay Between $38.75 - $48.44 Based on Experience

Position Overview:

The Surgical Assistant provides specified services in the Operating Room and other patient care areas under the direction of the physician. This position must conform to both Surgery Department and Winona Health Policies and Procedures. This position functions on the surgical team and helps provide the best possible care to the patient during the intra-operative phase. The Surgical Assistant is knowledgeable and experienced with the principles of aseptic technique and demonstrates integrity in aseptic practice. They communicate with the physician and nursing staff in a clear and concise manner. They function effectively as a member of the surgical team by performing delegated assignments, demonstrating flexibility to adapt to sudden changes, and by exhibiting qualities of dependability. The Surgical Assistant attends staff meetings and all mandatory in-services. The Surgical Assistant is credentialed and provides First Assistant duties under the direction of a physician. These duties may include but are not limited to: suture and staple removal, cast applications, repair and removal of drains, sterile dressing application/dressing change, intra-operative wound retracting, clamp/ligate/cauterization of vessels, wound closure, suturing, or stapling.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • The Surgical Assistant assists with safe transportation of patients in and out of bed and from the bed to the cart. The Surgical Assistant is familiar with surgical positions and for which procedure each is used. The Surgical Assistant practices safe positioning techniques to prevent injury to the patient.
  • Is constantly vigilant to the safety needs of patient, taking necessary precautions as
  • Reports malfunctioning equipment promptly and removes from the patient care area to maintain a safe environment.
  • Other job duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

No direct reports

Skills and Experience:

Required:

  • Graduate of an accredited School of Surgical First Assisting
  • Certified as a Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) by the National Board of Surgical Technology
  • BLS Certification
  • Verbalizes role in codes
  • Basic computer skills: Word, Excel, Outlook, and Patient Information Database (Cerner)

Summary of Benefits at Winona Health:

At Winona Health, we are dedicated to offering a comprehensive and affordable benefits package for our employees and their families. While benefits may vary based on employment classification and job status, the following key benefits are available: 

Health Insurance: Options for medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as mental health support and wellness incentives 
Income Protection: Short and long-term disability, plus additional benefits like accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, legal assistance, and identity protection plans
Retirement Planning: Access to a 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions once eligibility requirements are met
Work/Life Balance: Flexible scheduling, paid time off, and earned sick time to support personal well-being 
Education & Development: Paid training, tuition reimbursement, scholarships, and sponsored seminars to foster both personal and professional growth 
Employee Discounts: Special offers with local businesses, including the YMCA and cell phone providers

For more details or specific information, visit our website or contact Human Resources

Internal Applicant Policy:

It is the policy of Winona Health to work with employees in an equitable fashion regarding promotions, transfers, and position reclassifications.
Any employee wishing to apply for another available position at Winona Health must submit an application for consideration through the internal application portal. Employees requesting to change positions should have successfully completed at least six (6) months in their current position. Employees currently in the formal disciplinary process may be required to meet with the Director of Human Resources to determine eligibility to request transfer. The employee’s past performance, experience, training and qualifications will be considered in transfer/hiring decisions. Consideration for transfer or promotion is not a guarantee of transfer or promotion. Employees may be given a chance to interview for a position when they meet the minimum position qualifications.

Disclaimer:

Winona Health is an equal opportunity employer. Winona Health does not refuse to hire, discharge, or discriminate against a person with respect to tenure, compensation, terms, upgrading, conditions, facilities, or privileges of employment because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, genetic information, status with regard to public assistance, membership in a local discrimination commission, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other prohibited basis of discrimination under applicable local, state, or federal law. Winona Health does not tolerate retaliation against any employee, patient/resident, physician, or other individuals pursuing concerns regarding Civil Rights issues. Winona Health adheres to ALL pertinent governmental policies and legislation including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII, as amended, and the Minnesota Human Rights Act.


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