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Surgical Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Certification as a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) issued by National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), certification as a Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA ...

Surgical Tech - CVOR - PRN

Springfield, IL · On-site

$32.58 - $48.87/hr

Certification as a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) issued by National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), certification as a Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA ...

Assistant in Nursing - Surgical Apply now Job no: 506453 Work type: Permanent Location: Springfield Categories: AIN - Assistant in Nursing, All About the role Mater Hospital Springfield is seeking ...

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Surgical Assistant information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$13

$27

$62

How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in Springfield, IL is $27.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $29.76 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 Springfield, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,614 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Surgical Assistant I (32 Hours/Week)

Springfield Clinic

Springfield, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Springfield Clinic rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

532nd of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description


The Surgical Assistant 1 is resposible for being a First Assist to the surgeon on a full-time basis in the OR.
Job Relationships
Reports to the Operations Manager
Principal Responsibilities
Must be employed by the supervising surgeon 30 days or longer, if necessary, before assisting in the O.R. to assure competency, and must provide evidence of special training in the O.R. as a First Assistant.
Will obtain privileges and act as First Assistant to the surgeon in operative procedures at the ASC and local and area hospitals where the surgeon has privileges to perform surgery.
May assist in the O.R. suite with positioning of the patient, preparing the operative field (skin preparation and draping), and review the equipment and instruments required for the operation.
May perform designated wound closure approved by the surgeon.
May write orders, progress notes and diagnostic information on the patient's record in preparation for the surgeon's review and signature.
May request supplies and equipment necessary for the procedure.
Must promote effective rapport and cooperative spirit with related hospital and clinic personnel.
May assist or make rounds in the hospital for the attending surgeon.
May review the patient's record for lab reports, x-ray findings and nursing comments where the pertinent information may be directed to the attending surgeon. These visits may also involve
inspection of wounds and dressings, instructions to the patient, exercises and other convalescent activities and supplying health literature booklets and written post-operative instructions.
May assist families in making discharge arrangement.
Must be able to take call to assist in the O.R. as needed.
Must carry a beeper during clinic office hours and when on call for surgeon.
Comply with the Springfield Clinic incident reporting policy and procedures.
Adhere to all OSHA and Springfield Clinic training & accomplishments as required per policy.
Provide excellent customer service and adhere to SC Way customer service philosophy.
Perform other job duties as assigned.
Education/Experience
Graduate of LPN or Certified Surgical Tech program with evidence of completed certification as a First Assistant in the O.R.
At least five (5) years of O.R. experience.
Licenses/Certificates
ACLS helpful but not required.
Must maintain current license of LPN with surgical experience or certified surgical tech.
CPR certification per American Heart Association Guidelines required within 30 days of hire.
Certification as a Surgical First Assistant.
Must be a first Assistant in the Operation Room by AORN Standards or an equivalent.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Must follow Clinic personnel policies and procedures.
Must demonstrate professional behavior at all times.
May attend in-services and workshops relevant to the position.
Good organizational skills.
Good communication skills.
Computer knowledge essential.
Ability to work well with others, including patients, physicians, and other Clinic/hospital employees.
Ability to work well under stress.
Ability to work under stress and must possess organizational skills.
Working Environment
Work in a clinic and hospital environment.
Requires standing for long periods of time.
May be required to lift.
Frequent exposure to communicable diseases and toxic substances.
PHI/Privacy Level
HIPAA1

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