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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MI (NOW HIRING)

Corewell Health

Nurse Assistant Med Surg 5S

Troy, MI · On-site

Current CNA certification preferred How we will care for you, while you care for our patients ... Surg Care Unit 5S - Troy Hosp Employment Type Part time Shift Night (United States of America ...

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All JobsSurgical JobsSurgical Assistant JobsSurgical Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MI

Surgical Assistant information

See Rochester, MI salary details

$12

$25

$57

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Rochester, MI is $25.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $27.64 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 job categories do people searching Surgical Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI are:
What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, MI with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:
Surgical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Rochester, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,578 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Nurse Assistant-Surgical Specialty-36 hr/week-Days-Detroit

Henry Ford Hospital - Detroit Main Campus

Detroit, MI • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Surgical Specialty and Surgical Progressive Care Unit Summary:

Surgical Specialty and Surgical Progressive Care work together as a 40-bed unit. Services include plastic surgery, colon rectal surgery, ENT surgery, urology, bariatrics, surgical oncology, thoracic surgery, gynecologic surgery and gynecologic oncology surgery. An average of 70% of patients are admitted for an oncology-related condition. The staff works closely with a multitude of physicians and residents. NAs advance their skills beyond general practice without having to leave the unit by working with patients with more complex needs who require telemetry and continuous pulse oximetry.

Nurse Assistant Position Summary:

Under the direction and supervision of the responsible Registered Nurse (RN), performs specific patient care duties to meet safety and comfort needs of the patient. Provides input to assist the RN in planning and implementing patient care. Responds to emergent situations according to established procedures. Recognizes and participates in own continuing education. The Nurse Assistant follows the Henry Ford Health System Team Member Standards of Excellence in all interactions.

Education/Experience: 

  • High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent required.
  • Must meet one of the following required criteria: 
    • Completion of a Nurse Assistant program (titles for similar programs may vary; e.g., Patient Care Technician (PCT) or Patient Assistant Technician (PAT)) but perform the same job role.
    • Completion of a Medical Assistant program with or without experience.
    • At least one (1) year of previous experience in an NA, PCT, PAT, or similar job role.
    • May be currently enrolled in a nursing program and have successfully completed the Fundamentals of Nursing course.
    • Foreign trained and licensed RN who has relocated to the United States and does not hold a Michigan RN license

Certifications/Licensures: 

  • Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) license preferred.
  • Complete BLS Heartsaver Certification during orientation.
Additional Information
  • Organization: Henry Ford Hospital - Detroit Main Campus
  • Department: P6
  • Shift: Day Job
  • Union Code: Not Applicable

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