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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Rochelle, IL (NOW HIRING)

UWHealth

Surgical Assistant II

Rockford, IL · On-site

Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred * Bi-Annual CPR certification required (renew every 2 years). Required Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging UW Health is committed to fostering a ...

UW Health

Surgical Assistant II

Rockford, IL · On-site

$16.78 - $22.65/hr

Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred * Basic Life Support/CPR Certification. Required Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates ...

UW Health

Surgical Assistant II

Rockford, IL · On-site

$16.78 - $22.65/hr

Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred * Bi-Annual CPR certification required (renew every 2 years). Required Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging UW Health is committed to fostering a ...

UW Health

Surgical Assistant II

Rockford, IL · On-site

Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred * Basic Life Support/CPR Certification. Required Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates ...

UWHealth

Surgical Assistant II

Rockford, IL · On-site

Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred * Basic Life Support/CPR Certification. Required Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates ...

UW Health

Surgical Assistant II

Rockford, IL · On-site

Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred * Basic Life Support/CPR Certification. Required Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates ...

UW Health

Surgical Assistant II

Rockford, IL · On-site

Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred * Bi-Annual CPR certification required (renew every 2 years). Required Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging UW Health is committed to fostering a ...

UW Health

Surgical Assistant II

Rockford, IL · On-site

$16.78 - $22.65/hr

Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred * Basic Life Support/CPR Certification. Required Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates ...

UWHealth

Surgical Assistant II

Rockford, IL · On-site

Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred * Basic Life Support/CPR Certification. Required Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates ...

DCS Clinical

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

Rockford, IL · On-site

$900K - $1M/yr

Technology & Clinical Environment: * 4 dedicated sedation-certified surgical assistants per provider * Efficient surgical workflow with strong clinical support * High-volume surgical schedule: * 6-10 ...

Managed Care Staffers

Med Surg RN

Dixon, IL · On-site

$40 - $54/hr

... and assist with leadership responsibilities as needed · Float to ICU, ER, or Behavioral Health ... Med Surg experience required · Relief charge nurse experience required · BSN preferred · ...

UW Health

Surgical Technologist

Rockford, IL · On-site

Graduate of an accredited surgical technology program, a recognized military surgical technologist training program, or possess two years of related clinical experience in a military setting.

UWHealth

Surgical Technologist

Rockford, IL · On-site

Graduate of an accredited surgical technology program, a recognized military surgical technologist training program, or possess two years of related clinical experience in a military setting.

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All JobsSurgical JobsSurgical Assistant JobsSurgical Assistant Jobs in Rochelle, IL

Surgical Assistant information

See Rochelle, IL salary details

$13

$26

$61

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Rochelle, IL 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 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 cities near Rochelle, IL are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochelle, IL with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:

Surgical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Rochelle, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,546 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Surgical Assistant II

UWHealth

Rockford, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

UW Health rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 227 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Work Schedule: 

100% FTE, 6:00am-5:00pm, you will work at UW Health Swedish American 1401 E State St. 

Additional components of compensation may include:

Evening, night, and weekend shift differential

Overtime

On-call pay

At UW Health in northern Illinois, you will have:

   Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package including: PTO, Medical, Dental, Vision, retirement, short and long-term disability, paternity leave, adoption assistance, tuition assistance

   Annual wellness reimbursement

   Opportunity for on-site day care through UW Health Kids

   Tuition reimbursement for career advancement--ask about our fully funded programs!

   Abundant career growth opportunities to nurture professional development

   Strong shared governance structure

   Commitment to employee voice
 

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma Required
Work Experience
  • Previous hospital experience. Preferred
Licenses & Certifications
  • Certified Nursing Assistant. Preferred
  • Bi-Annual CPR certification required (renew every 2 years). Required
Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging
UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates belonging for everyone and is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member brings to work each day. It is the policy of UW Health to provide equal opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.


 

Job Description


 

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About UW Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

UW Health Clinics - our physicians and staff are dedicated to providing an exceptional patient and family experience by delivering the highest quality of care in a compassionate environment. With more than 80 primary and specialty care clinics located throughout Dane County and the surrounding areas, we are proud to have the opportunity to impact the communities we serve.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

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