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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

UNC-Chapel Hill

Dental Assistant

Chapel Hill, NC

$18 - $21/hr

Posting Information Department ASOD Oral Maxillofacial Surg - 434200 Career Area Health ... Position Summary The Surgical Assistant is responsible for providing surgical and dental assisting ...

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All JobsSurgical JobsSurgical Assistant JobsSurgical Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Surgical Assistant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$26

$60

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Raleigh, NC is $26.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $29.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need to be a surgical assistant?

To become a surgical assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with postsecondary education such as a certificate or associate degree in surgical technology or a related field. Certification from a recognized organization, like the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), is often required or preferred. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What is the highest paid surgical assistant?

The highest paid surgical assistants typically work in specialized or high-demand settings, such as surgical centers or hospitals with complex procedures, and may earn higher salaries with advanced certifications or extensive experience. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and level of expertise.

Which pays more, CNA or surgical tech?

Surgical assistants typically earn higher wages than CNAs due to their specialized skills and responsibilities in assisting during surgeries. Surgical techs usually require certification and have a more technical role, which often results in higher pay compared to CNAs, who primarily provide basic patient care. Salary differences can vary based on location, experience, and healthcare setting.

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 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 do surgical assistants do?

Surgical assistants support surgeons during procedures by preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and handling tissues or sutures as needed. They may also help with patient positioning, monitor equipment, and ensure sterile techniques are maintained throughout surgery. Certification and knowledge of surgical procedures are often required for this role.

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 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 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.
More about Surgical Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Surgical jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Surgical Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Surgical Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:
Surgical Assistant jobs near you
Travel Orthopedic Surgical Assistant

Travel Orthopedic Surgical Assistant

PRIDE Health

Morrisville, NC • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

PRIDE Health is seeking a travel Surgical First Assistant for a travel job in Morrisville, North Carolina.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Surgical First Assistant
  • Discipline: Allied Health Professional
  • Start Date: 08/10/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 8 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

Pride Health Job ID #18814874. Pay package is based on 8 hour shifts and 40.0 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Surgical Assistant:Ortho,09:00:00-17:00:00

About PRIDE Health

PRIDE Health is the minority-owned healthcare recruitment division of Pride Global—an integrated human capital solutions and advisory firm. With our robust and abundant travel nursing and allied health employment options across the U.S., PRIDE Health will allow you to help change the way the world lives and heals as it connects you with the industry’s leading healthcare organizations.


Pride Global offers eligible employee’s comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans), supplemental coverage (accident insurance, critical illness insurance and hospital indemnity), 401(k)-retirement savings, life & disability insurance, an employee assistance program, legal support, auto, home insurance, pet insurance, and employee discounts with preferred vendors.


Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • Holiday Pay
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Cancelation protection
  • Referral bonus
  • Medical benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits
PRIDE Health logo

About PRIDE Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PRIDE Health is the minority-owned healthcare recruitment division of Pride Global--an integrated human capital solutions and advisory firm. With our robust and abundant travel nursing and allied health employment options across the U.S., PRIDE Health will allow you to help change the way the world lives and heals as it connects you with the industry's leading healthcare organizations.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2010

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