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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Mayo Clinic

Surgical Technologist

Rochester, MN

$32.53 - $46.78/hr

Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ... The Surgical Technologist functions primarily in the scrub role and is responsible for selecting ...

Mayo Clinic

Surgical Technologist

Rochester, MN

Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ... The Surgical Technologist functions primarily in the scrub role and is responsible for selecting ...

Mayo Clinic

Surgical Technologist

Rochester, MN · On-site

Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ... The Surgical Technologist functions primarily in the scrub role and is responsible for selecting ...

Mayo Clinic

Surgical Technologist

Rochester, MN

Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ... The Surgical Technologist functions primarily in the scrub role and is responsible for selecting ...

Mayo Clinic

Surgical Technologist

Rochester, MN · On-site

$32.53 - $46.78/hr

Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ... The Surgical Technologist functions primarily in the scrub role and is responsible for selecting ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsSurgical JobsSurgical Assistant JobsSurgical Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN

Surgical Assistant information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$13

$27

$63

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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 Technologist

Olmsted Medical

Rochester, MN • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

0.7 FTE - Variable Shifts - On Call Shifts $5,000.00 Sign on Bonus with work commitment

Starting Pay - $31.11 - $46.67 (Based on Experience)

Offers for external candidates are generally made between the minimum and midpoint of the range, based on experience.

At Olmsted Medical Center, we value our employees and are committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. To keep up with the evolving trends, Olmsted Medical Center offers the following for employees who are employed at a 0.5 FTE or higher.

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance  
  • Vision Insurance
  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employer Paid Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability
  • Adoption Assistance Plan

Qualifications:

  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technologist program
  • Surgical technologist certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
  • BLS certified

Job Responsibilities:

  • Sets up sterile back table and Mayo stand with instruments, supplies, equipment, and medications/solutions needed for the surgical procedure.
  • Performs initial counts procedure with the RN circulator.
  • Assists team members with gowning and gloving.
  • Assists with draping and establishing of sterile field.
  • Actively participates in surgical timeout.
  • Anticipates the needs of the surgeon.
  • Measures and passes medications, hemostatic agents, and irrigation solutions on the sterile field.
  • Holds retractors as directed by the surgeon.
  • Applies suction and sponges to the operative site as needed.
  • Cuts suture material as directed by the surgeon.
  • May apply electrocautery to forceps and clamps on bleeders.
  • Prepares sterile dressings.
  • Prepares and passes off specimens.
  • Cleans and prepares instruments for sterilization.
  • Assists other members of the team with room turnover.
  • Performs work duties in a dependable manner.
  • Demonstrates open communication; team oriented.
  • Maintains confidentiality.
  • Maintains ongoing self-development.
  • Acts in a professional manner.
  • Lifting, pushing, and pulling instruments and pans throughout the sterilization process.
  • Performs repetitive motions throughout shift.
  • May function in the role of surgical first assistant with additional education and training.
  • May assist RN circulator (e.g. obtaining additional instruments, supplies, and equipment) if necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned.

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