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Surgical Medical Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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We are seeking a skilled and motivated Surgical Medical Assistant to support our surgeon and clinical team. This role involves both clinical and administrative responsibilities, with a strong ...

Be Seen First

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Surgical Medical Assistant to support our surgeon and clinical team. This role involves both clinical and administrative responsibilities, with a strong ...

PACT MSO has a busy Surgical Group with multiple locations seeking a Medical Assistant. The position is located in Hamden and Ansonia and the Medical Assistant must be available to travel to both ...

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Surgical Medical Assistant information

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$13

$27

$62

How much do surgical medical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical medical 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 medical assistant?

Surgical Medical Assistants are healthcare professionals who support surgeons and other medical staff before, during, and after surgical procedures. Their duties include preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, assisting with patient positioning, handing instruments to surgeons, and monitoring patient vital signs during surgery. They play a crucial role in ensuring surgeries run smoothly and safely, and often help with post-operative care as well. Surgical Medical Assistants work closely with doctors, nurses, and surgical technologists in hospitals, outpatient centers, and surgical clinics.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a surgical medical assistant in the operating room?

A Surgical Medical Assistant’s day in the operating room often includes preparing surgical instruments, ensuring the operating area is sterile, and assisting surgeons with procedures by passing instruments and maintaining a clear field of vision. They also help with patient positioning, monitor vital signs under supervision, and document key information during the procedure. After surgery, they may assist with wound care and cleanup, as well as preparing the operating room for the next case. Teamwork and clear communication with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists are essential throughout all these tasks.

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

To thrive as a Surgical Medical Assistant, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and medical terminology, typically supported by a medical assistant diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with surgical instruments, EHR systems, and specialized software for scheduling and documentation is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help ensure smooth operations in high-pressure environments. These skills are crucial for maintaining patient safety, supporting surgical teams, and optimizing workflow in surgical settings.

What is the difference between Surgical Medical Assistant vs Medical Assistant?

AspectSurgical Medical AssistantMedical Assistant
CertificationsCPR, Basic Life Support, sometimes specialized surgical certificationsCertified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics performing surgeriesDoctor's offices, clinics, outpatient facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in surgical procedures, prepare operating rooms, patient prep for surgeryAdministrative tasks, patient intake, basic clinical duties

While both roles support patient care, Surgical Medical Assistants focus on assisting with surgeries and preparing patients for procedures, often working in surgical settings. Medical Assistants handle a broader range of clinical and administrative tasks in general healthcare environments. The roles overlap in certifications and clinical skills but differ mainly in surgical involvement and work settings.

Can a surgical medical assistant work as a surgical assistant?

A surgical medical assistant typically performs supportive tasks in surgical settings but does not usually perform the same duties as a surgical assistant, who is often a licensed professional with specialized training. Transitioning to a surgical assistant role may require additional certifications, training, or licensure depending on the state or facility requirements. It is important to verify specific job responsibilities and qualifications for each role.

What does a surgical medical assistant do in surgery?

A surgical medical assistant supports the surgical team by preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and assisting with patient positioning. They may also help with patient intake, monitor vital signs during surgery, and ensure supplies are available, working under the supervision of surgeons and nurses.
More about Surgical Medical Assistant jobs

What cities are hiring for Surgical Medical Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Surgical Medical Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Surgical Medical Assistant jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Surgical Medical Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,122 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Surgical Medical Assistant

Middletown, DE • On-site

SunWise Family Dermatology & Surgery, LLC
Outpatient Health Care • 11 - 50 employees

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

As a dermatological surgical medical assistant, your role involves working with a dermatologist to provide care to patients with skin, hair, and nail conditions. Your responsibilities include clinical, administrative, and patient education tasks. SunWise Dermatology is seeking dependable and detail-oriented Certified Medical Assistants to join the surgical medical assistant team to assist providers in procedures such as skin biopsies, excisions, laser treatments, surgery and other dermatological procedures.

Qualifications and Skills
  • General Dermatology Experience (Required)
  • Proficiency in EMA (Required)
  • Certification (Required)
  • Transcription Experience (Required)
  • Dependable transportation (Required)
  • Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Negotiable salary dependent on experience
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Group Term Life insurance
  • Medical specialties:
  • Dermatology
  • Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
  • License/Certification:
  • Certified Medical Assistant (Required)