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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

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Surgical Assistant information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$13

$27

$63

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Rochester, MN is $27.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $30.53 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, such as 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 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?

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 you do as a surgical assistant?

A surgical assistant supports surgeons during procedures by preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and assisting with patient positioning. They may also handle suturing, tissue manipulation, and ensure the surgical environment remains sterile, often working under the supervision of a surgeon or surgical team. Certification and knowledge of surgical tools and protocols are typically required.

How much schooling do you need to be a surgical assistant?

To become a surgical assistant, you typically need a postsecondary education such as a certificate or associate degree in surgical technology or a related healthcare field. Certification from a recognized organization, like the National Surgical Assistant Association, is often required or preferred. Additionally, on-the-job training and clinical experience are important for developing necessary skills in the operating room.

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 Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Surgical jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What are popular job titles related to Surgical Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN? For Surgical Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:
Surgical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,064 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Certified Surgical Assistant - CSA

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN

$10K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 693 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

Responsibilities

The Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) first assists the surgeon/physician in the performance of surgical procedures. The CSA has an understanding of human surgical anatomy; has developed surgical skills such as suturing, the proper use of surgical instrumentation, and proper positioning of surgical patients. The CSA possesses a working knowledge of the principles of aseptic technique, and perioperative policies and procedural guidelines. The CSA must have knowledge of surgical procedures and the ability to anticipate the needs of the surgeon. The CSA will work in a multi-specialty perioperative setting that includes general surgery, orthopedic surgery, neurological surgery, spinal surgery, ENT/radical neck surgery, gynecological surgery, urology surgery, cardiovascular surgery, thoracic surgery, vascular surgery, trauma surgery, plastic surgery, transplant surgery, colon-rectal surgery, and pediatric surgery.

At Mayo Clinic, you will experience:

  • The highest quality patient care by placing the needs of the patient first
  • Competitive Compensation
    • Potential relocation assistance of up to $10,000 (taxable)
    • Rare pension plan in addition to a 403(b) with employer match
    • Flexible choice options for Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Mayo Clinic does not participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program.

See how Certified Surgical Assistants like Emily find purpose in supporting groundbreaking procedures and changing patients' lives.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBbZblUcd5A

The Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) first assists the surgeon/physician in the performance of surgical procedures. The CSA has an understanding of human surgical anatomy; has developed surgical skills such as suturing, the proper use of surgical instrumentation, and proper positioning of surgical patients. The CSA possesses a working knowledge of the principles of aseptic technique, and perioperative policies and procedural guidelines. The CSA must have knowledge of surgical procedures and the ability to anticipate the needs of the surgeon. The CSA will work in a multi-specialty perioperative setting that includes general surgery, orthopedic surgery, neurological surgery, spinal surgery, ENT/radical neck surgery, gynecological surgery, urology surgery, cardiovascular surgery, thoracic surgery, vascular surgery, trauma surgery, plastic surgery, transplant surgery, colon-rectal surgery, and pediatric surgery.


Qualifications

Graduate of a Surgical Assistant program or equivalent surgical assistant training. Currently certified as a Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) through the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or as a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Relevant operating room experience or training within the past 3 years is preferred.

Additional Qualifications:
Adapts to unpredictable situations within the perioperative setting. Proven ability to communicate with a variety of people in a direct, empathetic, and articulate manner. Demonstrates patient-centered and customer focused communication skills. Ability to work independently and as a team member with minimal supervision.

License or Certification:
Must have and maintain current certification as Certified Surgical Assistant with the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or Certified Surgical First Assistant with National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Maintains Basic Life Support certification.

BLS (Basic Life Support) must be valid for 90 days post start date; acceptable certifications include: American Heart Association (AHA)/ Heartcode BLS, Military Training Network, Red Cross (CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and Health Care Providers).
 


Exemption Status
Nonexempt
Compensation Detail
$38.71 - $58.09 / hour
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full Time
Hours/Pay Period
80
Schedule Details
Variation of 8-hour shifts, overtime as needed and float to other specialties as needed. Additional schedule requirements may be applicable based off position being hired into.
Weekend Schedule
Weekends may be required based on position.
International Assignment
No
Site Description
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the 'EOE is the Law'.  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Recruiter
Dana GrafftQualifications:

Graduate of a Surgical Assistant program or equivalent surgical assistant training. Currently certified as a Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) through the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or as a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Relevant operating room experience or training within the past 3 years is preferred.

Additional Qualifications:
Adapts to unpredictable situations within the perioperative setting. Proven ability to communicate with a variety of people in a direct, empathetic, and articulate manner. Demonstrates patient-centered and customer focused communication skills. Ability to work independently and as a team member with minimal supervision.

License or Certification:
Must have and maintain current certification as Certified Surgical Assistant with the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or Certified Surgical First Assistant with National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Maintains Basic Life Support certification.

BLS (Basic Life Support) must be valid for 90 days post start date; acceptable certifications include: American Heart Association (AHA)/ Heartcode BLS, Military Training Network, Red Cross (CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and Health Care Providers).
 

What Mayo Clinic employees say

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About Mayo Clinic

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Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919

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