Surgical assistants and technologists help with surgical operations.
Most surgical assistants and technologists work in hospitals. They spend much of their time on their feet.
Surgical assistants and technologists typically need a certificate or an associate’s degree. Employers may require or prefer that workers have certification. Some states regulate these workers.
The median annual wage for surgical assistants was $59,160 in May 2023.
The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $60,610 in May 2023.
Overall employment of surgical assistants and technologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 8,700 openings for surgical assistants and technologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for surgical assistants and technologists.
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of surgical assistants and technologists with similar occupations.
Learn more about surgical assistants and technologists by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
