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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Surgical Assistant Practice: Northern Virginia Oral Surgery Centers Location : Ashburn, VA Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:00AM - 4:30PM Tuesday and Friday 8:00AM -4:00PM Position Purpose : The ...

Surgical Assistant Practice: Northern Virginia Oral Surgery Centers Location : Ashburn, VA Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:00AM - 4:30PM Tuesday and Friday 8:00AM -4:00PM Position Purpose : The ...

Surgical Assistant Practice: Northern Virginia Oral Surgery Location: Fairfax, VA Hours: Monday | 8am - 4:30pm Tuesday | 8am - 4:30pm Wednesday | 8am - 4:30pm Thursday | 8am - 4:30pm Friday | 8am ...

Surgical Assistant Practice: Northern Virginia Oral Surgery Location: Fairfax, VA Hours: Monday | 8am - 4:30pm Tuesday | 8am - 4:30pm Wednesday | 8am - 4:30pm Thursday | 8am - 4:30pm Friday | 8am ...

Surgical Assistant

Clinton, MD · On-site

$35.68 - $64.71/hr

The Surgical Assistant practices in collaboration with and at the direction of the surgeon during the intra-operative experience. The Surgical Assistant may take a scrub rolewhen not needed as a ...

Surgical Assistant II

Laurel, MD · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Surgical Assistant II Job Location: Maryland Oral Surgery Associates, Laurel, MD Job Type: Fulltime Summary: Your new career awaits you... We are looking for a diligent oral surgery assistant to ...

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Surgical Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$13

$28

$64

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $28.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.13 and $31.06 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 are the most commonly searched types of Surgical jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

The most popular types of Surgical jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Surgical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Surgical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,051 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist oral surgeons during surgical procedures to ensure a smooth workflow.

  • Prepare instruments, materials, and equipment required for surgical procedures.

  • Document patient encounters and surgical procedures accurately.


Job description

Title: Surgical Assistant
Practice: Northern Virginia Oral Surgery Centers
Location: Ashburn, VA
Hours:

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
8:00AM - 4:30PM
Tuesday and Friday
8:00AM -4:00PM

Position Purpose:

The surgical assistant is responsible for ensuring the compassionate, effective, and efficient delivery of high-quality clinical care for patients while practicing and providing safety in the work environment. The ideal candidate will assist oral surgeons during procedures, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow in a fast-paced environment. This role requires a strong understanding of surgical procedures, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care.

Essential Functions:

Patient Care & Experience

  • Ensure all patients receive the highest quality of care and service.
  • Communicate with patients in a friendly, professional manner, both in person and by phone.
  • Maintain positive, professional relationships with patients, staff, and surgeons.
  • Assist with postoperative care, including patient education and follow-up instructions.
  • Monitor patient vital signs during surgical procedures and provide support as needed.

Clinical & Surgical Support

  • Assist oral surgeons during surgical procedures.
  • Prepare instruments, materials, and equipment required for surgical procedures.
  • Support adherence to best practices, established protocols, and the highest patient safety standards.

Documentation & Compliance

  • Accurately document patient encounters and surgical procedures.
  • Ensure compliance with all company policies and regulatory standards.
  • Maintain controlled substance safety protocols and documentation.

Office Operations & Safety

Support a clean, professional clinical environment, including:

  • Clean and stocked operatories
  • Maintained equipment and adequate supplies

Support monthly office safety and compliance checks, including:

  • Crash carts
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Emergency preparedness attestations
  • X-ray unit calibration
  • Omni-cam calibration
  • Controlled substance inventory and drug book accuracy
  • Oxygen tank readiness
  • Printing and maintaining controlled substance invoices

Team Collaboration & Professionalism

  • Promote a collaborative work environment focused on teamwork, efficiency, and exceptional patient care.
  • Attend and actively participate in team meetings.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required (some college, preferred)
  • Basic life support certification required. Employers will provide training if the candidate is not current.

Experience:

  • Previous dental experience - Preferred not required
  • Experience as an oral surgery assistant or dental assistant is preferred. (Will train the right candidate.)
  • Basic life support certification - Employer will assist if not completed

Performance Requirements:

Skills/Abilities:

  • Strong computer skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks, prioritize effectively
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Analytical and detail-oriented
  • Able to work independently with exceptional initiative and sound judgment
  • Positive attitude, change advocate, able to lead by example
  • Strong Knowledge of oral surgery procedures
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient care and safety

Work environment/Conditions:

  • Fast-paced dental office environment
  • Overtime is sometimes required as needed to perform job functions
  • Some travel as needed for training and to perform job functions
  • Safety procedures required, including protection to minimize the risks from X-rays
  • Potential long hours standing.

DISCLAIMER
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. OPS's management reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.