Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, aged to 2026 using compounded market movement. State selections show BLS state-level figures where published. Actual pay varies with experience, industry, and organization size.
Monitor and maintain aseptic technique throughout procedures.
Cover patients with surgical drapes to create and maintain a sterile operative field.
Coordinate or participate in the positioning of patients, using body stabilizing equipment or protective padding to provide appropriate exposure for the procedure or to protect against nerve damage or circulation impairment.
Maintain an unobstructed operative field, using surgical retractors, sponges, or suctioning and irrigating equipment.
Top skills:Active ListeningSpeakingReading ComprehensionMonitoringCritical ThinkingService Orientation
Includes information from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (CC BY 4.0).
Surgical Assistant salary by industry
Health Care and Social Assistance
21,440 workers
$75,000
Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services
340 workers
$100,000
Management of Companies and Enterprises
310 workers
$74,500
State Government, including Schools and Hospitals (OEWS Designation)
200 workers
$75,500
Educational Services
80 workers
$66,000
National sector-level figures, BLS OEWS May 2025, aged to 2026.
