1

Surgical Assistant Jobs in Puerto Rico (NOW HIRING)

Oral Surgeon - Saturday

Fort Buchanan, PR · On-site

$256K - $338K/yr

A fully staffed team to assist with patient care and clinical flow * No After-Hours or On-Call Requirements Your Role as a Part-Time Oral Surgeon: * Perform a wide scope of surgical procedures ...

PR · On-site

$256K - $338K/yr

A fully staffed team to assist with patient care and clinical flow * No After-Hours or On-Call Requirements Your Role as a Part-Time Oral Surgeon: * Perform a wide scope of surgical procedures ...

PR · On-site

We are tasked with staffing the San Juan VA Medical Center (SJVAMC) with an Onsite Cardiothoracic Physician Surgeons (2FTEs). The Cardiothoracic Physician is expected to do the following: * Initial ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Surgical Assistant information

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 Puerto Rico?

The most popular types of Surgical jobs in Puerto Rico are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Surgical Assistant jobs in Puerto Rico look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical Assistant jobs in Puerto Rico are:

What cities in Puerto Rico are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities in Puerto Rico with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Puerto Rico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 66% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Physician Surgery-Thoracic - Competitive Salary

Veterans Health Administration

San Juan, PR

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 hours ago


Veterans Health Administration rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,004 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Discover an Exceptional Career Opportunity: VA Caribbean Healthcare System Seeks Board-Certified/Eligible Cardiothoracic Surgeons in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Are you passionate about delivering life-saving care to Veterans in a high-impact setting? The VA Caribbean Healthcare System (San Juan VA Medical Center)  is seeking a skilled Cardiothoracic Surgeon (full-time or part-time) to join our dedicated team in San Juan Puerto Rico . This is a rare opportunity to serve our nation’s heroes while enjoying the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the Caribbean.

Why Join Us?

  • Meaningful Work: Provide critical surgical care to some of the sickest patient populations in the nation—Veterans who deserve world-class treatment.
  • Strong Support Team: Work alongside a Cardiothoracic Nurse Practitioner and a soon-to-be-hired Physician Assistant for OR support.
  • Specialized ICU Care: Collaborate with a dedicated Intensivist team in our state-of-the-art ICU.
  • Predictable Schedule:
    • OR Days: Monday & Wednesday (2 cases per day).
    • Clinic Days: Tuesday & Friday.
    • Hours: 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM (typical).
  • No Teaching Duties: Focus solely on patient care and surgery.

Who We’re Looking For:

  • Board-certified or board-eligible in Cardiothoracic Surgery.
  • Fluent in Spanish (required for patient care).
  • Experienced in cardiac, thoracic, and lung surgery.
  • Committed to Veteran-centered care and teamwork.

Comprehensive Benefits:

  • Competitive federal salary with performance incentives.
  • Generous paid time off (26 days annual leave, 13 sick days, 11 federal holidays).
  • Robust retirement plan (pension + 401K with up to 5% match).
  • Malpractice coverage with tail protection included.
  • Student loan repayment & relocation assistance (if applicable).

Why Puerto Rico?

San Juan offers an unmatched quality of life with:

  • Stunning beaches, tropical climate, and outdoor adventures (hiking, diving, and more).
  • Rich culture, historic Old San Juan, and world-class cuisine.
  • No federal income tax for Puerto Rico residents.
  • Easy travel to the U.S. mainland and Caribbean destinations (no passport needed for U.S. citizens!).

How to Apply:

If you’re ready to make a difference in the lives of Veterans while embracing island living, we want to hear from you! Submit your Resume immediately to:

Email: terrance.anderson@va.gov
Phone: (832) 417-0937

Join us at the VA Caribbean Healthcare System—where your expertise saves lives, and your career thrives in paradise!

Fun Facts About San Juan, Puerto Rico:

  • Home to El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.
  • Features 500+ years of history with vibrant Spanish colonial architecture.
  • Famous for salsa music, bioluminescent bays, and world-renowned coffee.

Your next career adventure awaits—apply today!


What Veterans Health Administration employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Veterans Health Administration logo

About Veterans Health Administration

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, serving millions of Veterans each year. Located in Phoenix, AZ, and many other parts of the US, the VHA operates under the Department of Veteran Affairs, as suggested by their official website va.gov. The VHA is dedicated to providing the highest level of comprehensive care to its veterans. The organization offers a broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative care, including mental health services, research, and pharmacy benefits.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US