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Surgical Assistant Jobs in San Ramon, CA (NOW HIRING)

Surgical technologists, also called scrubs and surgical or operating room technicians, assist in surgical operations under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel.

Surgical technologists, also called scrubs and surgical or operating room technicians, assist in surgical operations under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel.

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Surgical Assistant information

See San Ramon, CA salary details

$15

$30

$70

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in San Ramon, CA is $30.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $33.56 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.

What job categories do people searching Surgical Assistant jobs in San Ramon, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical Assistant jobs in San Ramon, CA are:

What cities near San Ramon, CA are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities near San Ramon, CA with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in San Ramon, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,835 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Assistant Nurse Manager, Medical Surgical Telemetry

Sutter Health

Vallejo, CA • On-site

$198K - $277K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Sutter Health rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 327 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!

Organization:

SSMC-Sutter Solano Medical Center

Position Overview:

Supervises and oversees all nursing activities of patient care in an inpatient setting, ensuring consistent delivery of high-value quality care to all patient populations served. Establishes work priorities, and assists staff in resolving operational issues/problems. Implements and enforces adherence to inpatient department, affiliate, operating unit, and/or system standards, policies and procedures, the Joint Commission (TJC) standards, and applicable laws and regulations Identifies and implements cost savings and best practices, using Lean or other process improvement methods and concepts. Collaborates with others to coordinate services, streamline and standardize work flows and procedures, and/or drive positive outcomes.

Job Description:

EDUCATION:

  • Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.


CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE:

  • RN-Registered Nurse of California
  • BLS-Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider
  • ACLS-Advanced Cardiac Life Support


TYPICAL EXPERIENCE:

  • 5 years recent relevant experience.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

  • Solid understanding of operations and workflows and how department's process/workflow impacts other flows or departments.
  • Knowledge and understanding of applicable local, state, federal and other health care laws, regulations and requirements - e.g., TJC, Medi-Cal, Medicare.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills, including team building, and coaching/mentoring with the ability to motivate and engage others.
  • Demonstrated ability to identify and resolve technical and operational issues problems as guided by policies, and procedures, or guidance from leadership.
  • Ability to build and establish effective working partnership with employees, peers and/or leaders to achieve business objectives.
  • Understands age specific needs in providing care to patient population served.
  • Demonstrates ability to handle confidential and sensitive issues.
  • Verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to handle difficult circumstances and make sound business decisions with little direction.
  • Demonstrates ability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment with changing business priorities.
  • Demonstrates organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple projects while delivering quality service/achieving business results.
  • Demonstrates commitment to providing exceptional customer service and responding to customer needs/requests in a prompt, courteous manner.
  • Demonstrates ability to work/interact with a diverse population while respecting cultural and linguistic differences.
  • Ability to use essential software and applications associated with the role's duties and responsibilities.


Job Shift:

Days

Schedule:

Full Time

Days of the Week:

Monday - Friday

Weekend Requirements:

As Needed

Benefits:

Yes

Unions:

No

Position Status:

Exempt

Weekly Hours:

40

Employee Status:

Regular

Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.

Pay Range is $198,577.60 to $277,992.00 / annual salary

The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.


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