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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Specialty: Surgical First Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel The ...

Travel CVOR Surgical First Assistant

Atlanta, GA · On-site

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CVOR Certified Surgical First Assistant Surgical Services in Atlanta, GA LeaderStat is currently seeking a CVOR Certified Surgical First Assistant Surgical Services for a(n) 15 week contract in GA.

... Asst Education: High School Diploma General or GED General or Accredited Program Surgical Technology Required Minimum Skills: Ability to read, write and speak the English language Strong customer ...

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Surgical Assistant information

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$13

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$61

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Decatur, GA is $26.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $29.33 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 Decatur, GA?

The most popular types of Surgical jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,770 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Labor and Delivery Surgical Assistant/First Asst

Emory Healthcare

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Emory Healthcare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 217 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

159th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Be inspired. Be rewarded. Belong. At Emory Healthcare.
At Emory Healthcare we fuel your professional journey with better benefits, valuable resources, ongoing mentorship and leadership programs for all types of jobs, and a supportive environment that enables you to reach new heights in your career and be what you want to be. We provide:
  • Comprehensive health benefits that start day 1
  • Student Loan Repayment Assistance & Reimbursement Programs
  • Family-focused benefits
  • Wellness incentives
  • Ongoing mentorship and leadership programs
  • And more!

Description
Job Summary: The surgical assistant/first assistant is responsible for assisting the surgeon under direct and indirect supervision throughout preoperative, intraoperative, and post-operative duties and procedures as needed. The surgical assistant/first assistant provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. Primary duties and responsibilities: Surgical Assistance Across the Perioperative Continuum: 1. Preoperative phase includes, but is not limited to safe positioning, assist circulator and anesthesia provider in preparation of the patient. 2. Intraoperative phase includes, but is not limited to performing specific tasks according to individual surgeon preference utilizing appropriate techniques. 3. Postoperative phase includes, but is not limited to, application of specific dressing material, assist in transfer of patient and following patient to recovery if needed or directed by surgeon. Intraoperative Exposure, Hemostasis, and Closure: 1. Provides visualization of the operative site by the following, but not limited to: a. Appropriate placement and securing of retractors with or without padding. b. Packing with sponges. c. Digital manipulation of tissue. d. Suctioning, irrigating, or sponging. e. Manipulation of suture materials (e.g. loops, tags, running sutures). f. Proper use of body mechanics to prevent obstruction of the surgeon's view. 2. Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist with hemostasis. a. Permanent: clamping and/or cauterizing vessels or tissue; tying and/or ligating clamped vessels or tissue; applying hemostatic clips; placing local hemostatic agents. b. Temporary: applying tourniquets and demonstrating awareness of the indications/contraindications for use with knowledge of side effects of extended use; applying vessel loops; applying non-crushing clamps; applying direct digital pressure. 3. Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist with closure of body planes. 4. Utilizes running or interrupted subcutaneous sutures with absorbable or non-absorbable material. 5. Utilizes subcuticular closure technique with or without adhesive skin closure strips. 6. Closes skin with method indicated by surgeon (suture, staples, etc.). 7. Provides postoperative subcutaneous administration of local anesthetic as directed by the surgeon. 8. Selects and applies appropriate wound dressing: liquid or spray occlusive materials, absorbent material affixed with tape of circumferential wrapping; immobilizing dressing (soft or rigid). Patient Positioning, Equipment Use, and Safety: 1. Familiarized with common positions related to the procedure and will be able to use the equipment necessary to provide the position: Fracture tables, Head stabilizers, Body stabilizer, C-arm extensions, and any other equipment needed. 2. Implements patient positioning as directed by the surgeon to achieve optimal surgical exposure. 3. Considers patient's comfort and safety: a. Points of pressure shall be padded: elbows, heels, knees, eyes, face, and axillary region. b. Circulation shall not be impaired. c. Nerve damage shall be guarded against. 4. Evaluates the patient after procedure completion for potential positioning-related injury, including skin assessment. Additional Duties as Assigned. Travel: Less than 10% of the time may be required. Work Type: On-Site: Works in the office or at a physical workplace, interacting with colleagues face-to-face Minimum Required Qualifications: Education - A high school diploma or equivalent Experience - 2 years of Surgical Technologist experience. Some service lines may require specialized experience (e.g., cardiothoracic surgery may require two years of directly related Surgical Technologist experience) Certification - Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Preferred Qualifications Experience - 2 years of surgical assistant/first assistant experience
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Medium): 20-50 lbs; 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs, 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 50 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock , Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation , Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.
Additional Details
Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.
Emory Healthcare is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Please contact Emory Healthcare's Human Resources at careers@emoryhealthcare.org. Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.

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