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Surgical Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Surgical Assistant (SA) will be responsible for the direct and indirect care of patients based on established standards. The SA will collaborate with the surgeon in performing an operative ...

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

Surgical Assistant Practice: Mid Kansas Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Location: Wichita, KS Hours: Monday through Thursday: 7:00 AM-5:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM-2:30 PM Position Purpose : The surgical ...

Sterilization Technician

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Surgical Tray & Room Preparation * Assemble, organize, and prepare surgical trays and materials to ensure timely availability for procedures. * Assist with the setup and breakdown of surgical rooms ...

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 ...

The Surgical Assistant (SA) will be responsible for the direct and indirect care of patients based on established standards. The SA will collaborate with the surgeon in performing an operative ...

Surgical Assistant

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$37 - $60/hr

Surgical Assistant Job Summary Bayview Physicians Group is seeking a skilled and dedicated Surgical Assistant to support surgeons and the surgical team in delivering high-quality patient care ...

Title: Surgical Assistant Practice: Capitol Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Location: Olympia, Washington, United States Position Purpose : The surgical assistant is responsible for ensuring the ...

The Surgical Assistant (SA) will be responsible for the direct and indirect care of patients based on established standards. The SA will collaborate with the surgeon in performing an operative ...

We are hiring a Dental/Surgical Assistant! Buckhead/Atlanta, GA | Full-time Website: Precision Oral Surgery Position Highlights: Step into the fast-paced world of oral surgery as an Oral Surgeon ...

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Surgical Assistant information

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$27

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How much do surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical assistant in the United States is $27.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.05 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 cities are hiring for Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Surgical Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical jobs?

The most popular types of Surgical jobs are:

What states have the most Surgical Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Surgical Assistant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Surgical Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,122 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

SURGERY 
STATUS: ; SHIFT: ; HOURS PER PAY: 

The Surgical Assistant (SA) will be responsible for the direct and indirect care of patients based on established standards. The SA will collaborate with the surgeon in performing an operative procedure in a safe manner with optimal outcomes for the patient whose protective reflexes or self-care abilities are potentially compromised. The SA provides assistance to other health care providers such as Registered Nurses, anesthesia staff, surgeons and other professionals. Additionally, the Surgical Assistant provides orient/training to new team members, participates in very complex cases, and actively participates in PI projects. SA works under the license and direct supervision of the surgeon. The SA will be responsible for knowledge and implementation of the mission, vision and values of the hospital. The SA will be responsible for maintaining continuing education.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Associate of Arts Degree in Surgical Technology AND completion of a Surgical Assistant program accredited by CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) or ABSA (American Board of Surgical Assistants) Required.
Licensure: Not applicable
Certification: Current CPR certification required.
One of the following Certifications Required:
Certification as a Surgical Technologist under the Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologist by graduating from a CAAHEP and passing a national certification examination (CST)
Certification under the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
Certification under the Armed Forces (military) Program
Experience: Minimum three years experience as a certified surgical technologist required. Two years clinical experience as a Surgical Assistant preferred.
Skills/Other: Must be willing to work with acutely ill patients, including emergency situations. Works independently as well as functioning as a team member. Reference of collaborating physician IF they have been in this role