FAQ
Surgical Assistant FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a surgical assistant.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a surgical assistant: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about surgical assistants
How do you become a surgical assistant?
Usually through surgical technologist experience plus a surgical assisting program.
Do surgical assistants suture?
Yes, they often close incisions.
Is certification required?
Most employers require it.
How much does a surgical assistant make?
The median annual wage for surgical assistants was $66,800 ($32.11 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $39,690 and the highest 10% earned more than $107,610.
How long does it take to become a surgical assistant?
Most people need about 1–2 years of training. A postsecondary surgical assisting program is typical, often after experience as a surgical technologist, plus national certification.
Do you need a degree to be a surgical assistant?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
Is surgical assistant a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +6.1% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 1,400 openings each year. Upsides include hands-on surgical role; a common challenge is that long hours standing.
What skills does a surgical assistant need?
Key technical skills include surgical exposure, suturing, hemostasis, and sterile technique. Employers also value teamwork, focus, and anticipation.
What certifications are available for surgical assistants?
Common credentials include Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA), Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C), and BLS CPR. A few states license surgical assistants; most employers require certification.
Still deciding?
Try the Surgical Assistant fit quiz, compare with Surgical Technologist, or explore Surgical Assistant training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-9093 (Surgical assistants).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Surgical assistants (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.