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Surgical Care Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Patient Care Assistant

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Patient Care Assistant Memorial Hermann Texas International Endoscopy Center is a state-of-the-art ... Memorial Hermann Texas International Endoscopy Center is part of United Surgical Partners ...

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Surgical Care Assistant information

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$62

How much do surgical care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical care 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 care assistant?

Surgical Care Assistants (SCAs) are healthcare professionals who support surgeons and the surgical team before, during, and after surgical procedures. They help prepare operating rooms, assist with patient positioning, maintain sterile environments, and provide direct care to patients. SCAs often work under the supervision of registered nurses and surgeons, ensuring that all necessary equipment and instruments are available and functioning. Their role is crucial for maintaining efficiency and safety in the operating room.

What are some common challenges surgical care assistants face when supporting surgical teams during procedures?

Surgical Care Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to sterile techniques, managing high-pressure situations during complex procedures, and efficiently anticipating the needs of surgeons and nurses. The fast-paced environment requires excellent communication and quick decision-making skills to ensure patient safety and smooth workflow. Adapting to different surgical specialties and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams are also key aspects that demand flexibility and ongoing learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical care assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical Care Assistant, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and patient care, typically supported by a healthcare qualification such as an NVQ or diploma in perioperative care. Familiarity with operating room equipment, electronic health records, and infection control protocols is essential. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for supporting surgeons and ensuring patient safety. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining high standards of surgical care, minimizing risks, and ensuring efficient operating room operations.

What is the difference between Surgical Care Assistant vs Operating Room Technician?

AspectSurgical Care AssistantOperating Room Technician
CertificationsCPR, Basic Life Support, sometimes specialized surgical assisting certificationsCPR, Basic Life Support, surgical technology certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, assisting surgical teamsOperating rooms, assisting with surgical procedures
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, surgical centersHospitals, surgical facilities, outpatient clinics
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Surgical Care Assistants and Operating Room Technicians work in surgical environments, assisting surgical teams. While their roles overlap in supporting surgeries, Surgical Care Assistants often focus on patient care and pre/post-operative tasks, whereas Operating Room Technicians primarily prepare and manage surgical equipment. Certifications like CPR and basic life support are common to both roles, and they are employed in similar healthcare settings.

How hard is it to become a surgical care assistant?

Becoming a surgical care assistant typically requires completing a relevant healthcare qualification, such as a diploma or certificate in healthcare support or surgical assisting, and gaining practical experience. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important; some roles may require certification or training in basic life support or patient care. Overall, it involves a combination of education, training, and on-the-job experience.

What degree do I need to be a surgical care assistant?

A surgical care assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent; some employers prefer or require additional vocational training or a relevant certification. While a specific degree is not always mandatory, having knowledge of healthcare procedures and patient care skills is important for the role.

What do you do as a surgical care assistant?

A surgical care assistant supports surgical teams by preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, and assisting with patient care before, during, and after surgery. They may also help with patient positioning, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring a sterile environment, often working under the supervision of nurses or surgeons. Certification and adherence to health and safety protocols are typically required in this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a surgical care assistant?

To become a surgical care assistant, candidates typically need a relevant healthcare qualification such as a diploma or certificate in healthcare support or surgical assisting. Good communication skills, the ability to work in a team, and knowledge of sterile techniques are also important; some roles may require specific certifications like basic life support (BLS).

What cities are hiring for Surgical Care Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Surgical Care Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical Care jobs?

The most popular types of Surgical Care jobs are:

What states have the most Surgical Care Assistant jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Surgical Care Assistant jobs?

For Surgical Care Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

SURGICAL CARE ASSISTANT-OPERATING ROOM

Terre Haute, IN

Union Health
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

Per diem

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Union Health rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

You belong at Union!

Surgical Care Assistants play a key role in providing the highest quality of patient care while the patient is in at Union Health.
The operating room staff serve as an essential role in our healthcare system. As a member, you'll assist surgeons during procedures, prepare the surgical environment, and prioritize patient safety to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives.

Join us as we provide compassionate service and high-quality care to the Wabash Valley Communities. We are committed to helping you find a role that recognizes your interests, expertise, and talent and helping you achieve your long-term career goals and aspirations. At Union, you’ll experience an inclusive environment in which you are empowered to be your best self every day.

In addition to competitive pay, Union co-workers enjoy:

  • Part-time and Full-time schedules
  • Comprehensive Benefits
  • Paid Time Off starting day one.
  • Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 each year.
  • Career Paths 
  • Success Sharing
  • 403b Retirement Employer Match.
  • Much More!

Be part of an organization that is dedicated to your work-life balance, career, growth, and development. Union Health, U Matter and U Belong.

How can we help? Call us at 812-238-7827 or email us at recruiting@union.health

Surgical Care Assistant Details

Essential Job Duties:

  • Collaborates with the Registered Nurse and the O.R. Team regarding the operative procedure, special instruments and plan of care.
  • Demonstrates an understanding of physical and emotional needs of the surgical patient.
  • Assumes responsibility for patient care within the scope of experience and practice.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of hospital policy and procedure.


Qualifications:

Must be currently enrolled in a CST program.
Please note that the salary information provided on the career site for this position opening may not necessarily reflect the accurate compensation associated with the role.
We encourage candidates to inquire further and engage in direct communication with Union Health for comprehensive salary details.
 

As an EOE/AA employer, Union Hospital, Inc. will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran or disability status.


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