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

Surgical Assistant

Herndon, VA · On-site

$40.91 - $61.37/hr

Surgical First Assistant Bring Your Surgical Expertise to a Collaborative Orthopedic Team As a Surgical First Assistant at OrthoVirginia , you'll work directly alongside our surgeons and ...

Surgical Assistant I

Rockville, MD · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Surgical Assistant I Job Location: Maryland Oral Surgery Associates, Rockville, MD Job Type: Fulltime Summary: Your new career awaits you... Are you looking for a company that you can call home and ...

Surgical Assistant

Herndon, VA · On-site

$56 - $84/hr

Surgical First Assistant Bring Your Surgical Expertise to a Collaborative Orthopedic Team As a Surgical First Assistant at OrthoVirginia, you'll work directly alongside our surgeons and perioperative ...

The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under direct supervision of the attending surgeon and in ...

The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under direct supervision of the attending surgeon and in ...

The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under direct supervision of the attending surgeon and in ...

The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under direct supervision of the attending surgeon and in ...

Showing results 21-40

Surgical Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$13

$28

$64

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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.

Surgical Assistant

OrthoVirginia

Herndon, VA • On-site

$40.91 - $61.37/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


OrthoVirginia rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At OrthoVirginia, you're part of a team dedicated to delivering expert orthopedic and therapy care across the state. As Virginia's largest provider of musculoskeletal care, we offer full-time and part-time opportunities in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

With more than 159 physicians in over 35 locations-including Lynchburg, Northern Virginia, Richmond, Southwest Virginia, and Hampton Roads-OrthoVirginia is a leader in orthopedic surgery, non-surgical care, and physical, hand, and occupational therapy. Our nationally recognized specialists treat a full range of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, helping patients of all ages move, heal, and thrive.

Join us and become part of a trusted network committed to excellence in orthopedic care.

Surgical First AssistantBring Your Surgical Expertise to a Collaborative Orthopedic Team

As a Surgical First Assistant at OrthoVirginia, you'll work directly alongside our surgeons and perioperative teams to support safe, efficient, high-quality surgical care.

You'll serve as an integral member of the operative team, providing skilled first-assist support throughout surgical and invasive procedures. This role is ideal for an experienced surgical professional who thrives in the OR, values teamwork, and is committed to delivering an exceptional standard of patient care.

What You'll Do
  • Function as a first assistant during operative and other invasive procedures in accordance with established credentials, privileges, experience, education, and verified competencies.

  • Review relevant patient health information, including history and physical documentation, in preparation for procedures.

  • Assist surgeons through the appropriate use of instruments, retractors, suction, and sponging techniques.

  • Handle and dissect tissue as directed by the surgeon.

  • Clamp blood vessels, coagulate bleeding points, and ligate vessels as directed.

  • Place drains and perform suturing of muscle, fascia, subcutaneous tissue, and skin as directed by the surgeon and within scope of practice.

  • Anticipate procedural needs and collaborate closely with surgeons and the perioperative team to support safe and efficient patient care.

  • Serve as a clinical resource to peers and colleagues regarding first-assistant practices and procedures.

  • Maintain required credentials, privileges, competencies, and continuing education necessary to practice as a Surgical First Assistant.

  • Protect patient privacy and maintain confidentiality of health information.

  • Follow all applicable federal and state regulations, OSHA requirements, AAAHC standards, and AORN Perioperative Standards and Recommended Practices.

What You'll Bring
  • Current credentials and qualifications required to practice as a Surgical First Assistant.

  • Demonstrated experience functioning as a first assistant in an operative environment.

  • Strong knowledge of surgical technique, instrumentation, anatomy, and sterile practices.

  • Ability to anticipate surgeon and procedural needs while maintaining focus on patient safety.

  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a fast-paced, collaborative surgical team.

  • Commitment to maintaining required clinical competencies, credentials, and continuing education.

Why OrthoVirginia?

At OrthoVirginia, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside experienced orthopedic surgeons and perioperative professionals while playing a hands-on role in delivering exceptional surgical care.

You'll join a team that values clinical excellence, collaboration, continuous learning, and patient-centered care-with opportunities to continue building your expertise within one of Virginia's leading orthopedic organizations.


Compensation Range for this position:

$40.91 - $61.37

Compensation for this role will be based on several factors, including the candidate's qualifications, relevant experience, education, skills, certifications, geography/market, and internal equity considerations.


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