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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Raleigh Orthopaedic

Surgical Attendant

Cary, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Key Responsibilities: * Assist patients to and from the operating room and surgical table * Support patient positioning and assist with surgical skin preparation * Provide assistance to surgeons ...

Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic

Surgical Attendant

Cary, NC · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Key Responsibilities: * Assist patients to and from the operating room and surgical table * Support patient positioning and assist with surgical skin preparation * Provide assistance to surgeons ...

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All JobsSurgical JobsSurgical Assistant JobsSurgical Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Surgical Assistant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$24

$55

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Raleigh, NC is $24.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $26.54 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.
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
Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,434 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Dental Assistant - Advanced

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

$45K - $51K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

313th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Department ASOD Oral Maxillofacial Surg-434200 Career Area Health Professional (Physician/Nurse/Other) Is this an internal only recruitment? No Posting Open Date 04/16/2026 Application Deadline 08/25/2026 Position Type Permanent Staff (SHRA) Position Title Dental Assistant - Advanced Salary Grade Equivalent MH05 / GN07 Working Title Dental Assistant Position Number 00061938, 00056607 Vacancy ID P020959 Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited Full-Time Permanent If time-limited, estimated duration of appointment Hours per week 40 Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Work Location Chapel Hill, NC Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range $45,258 - $51,795 Pay Band Information
To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet.
Notice to Applicants
Position Summary Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The UNC Adams School of Dentistry Division of Craniofacial and Surgical Care provides a diverse approach to treatment for patients with craniofacial or oral and maxillofacial conditions, including those with multiple or complex oral health problems. The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery discipline functions within the Adams School of Dentistry and UNC Hospitals and specializes in implant surgery, jaw tumors and disease, trauma surgery, cleft palates, facial cosmetic surgery and much more.
Position Summary
A SIGN-ON BONUS OF $2,000 IS AVAILABLE FOR THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT OF THIS POSITION PAID IN TWO INSTALLMENTS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF HIRE.
$1,000 WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE DATE AND $1,000 12 MONTHS AFTER HIRE DATE.
The Surgical Assistant is responsible for providing surgical and dental assisting duties to the dental faculty practice, student, and graduate clinics within the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery specialty. Tasks include preparing the clinic, setting up surgical trays using sterile techniques, assisting with a variety of surgical and dental procedures and obtaining surgical consent from patients, obtaining and documenting pre- and post-op vitals, and preparing patients for their procedure and subsequently review post-op instructions. The Surgical Assistant is responsible for reviewing the surgical caseload at the beginning of each day and assisting with clinical education of students and medical emergencies when needed. The Assistant may be asked to take impressions, order x-rays, complete the appropriate pathology and microbiology forms, maintain operating room inventory and complete duties assigned by the direct supervisor or faculty member.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
High school diploma or equivalency and completion of an accredited dental assisting program; or equivalent combination of training and experience.
Management Preferences
Basic comprehension of oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures.
Required Licenses/Certifications Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time. Ability to maintain composure under stressful situations. Active movement throughout the day (sitting, walking, standing, squatting, bending, stooping, and reaching). Ability to push up to 250-lb person in a wheelchair with or without accommodation. Ability to move/lift up to 50 pounds with or without accommodation. Ability to physically assist/lift drowsy patients after anesthesia with or without accommodation.
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.
Position/Schedule Requirements Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens, Exposure to Hazardous Materials, Patient care involved Special Instructions
**ELIGIBILITY FOR SIGN-ON BONUS

The selected candidate for this position may be eligible for a sign-on bonus. Qualified applicants must apply and be selected from the candidate pool of this posting and meet the State policy following requirements:

To be eligible for a Sign-on bonus, an individual must not have worked in a probationary, permanent, or time-limited appointment in the last 12 months as an employee in North Carolina state government, including without limitation the judicial system, state executive branch agencies, and the university system in a position subject to the State Human Resources Act.

A newly hired permanent full time or permanent part-time (more than 20 hours a week) employee are eligible for a sign-on bonus (this will be prorated for employees working more than 20 hours and less than 40 hours per week).

This SHRA Sign-on Bonus is contingent upon budget and final eligibility determination as of the effective date of hire. All recipients must sign the Pay Back Agreement form. Additional information regarding the SHRA Sign-on Policy can be found https://oshr.nc.gov/policies/sign-and-retention-bonus-policy

Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/316186
Contact Information
Office of Human Resources Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789

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