Surgical Assistant - OR

Carle Health; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Carle Health is seeking a skilled Surgical Assistant to join the Operating Room team in Phoenix. The role supports surgeons as first or second assistant and circulator under RN supervision, with flexible shifts and scheduling options.

Qualified candidates have an Associate’s Degree or Surgical Technology certification, plus BLS and CSA/CST or licensed surgical assistant credentials. Prior OR scrub experience is valued for efficient patient care.

Qualifications

• Required knowledge of asepsis and sterile technique.
• Experience in the OR as first/second assistant or scrub role preferred.
• Education: Associate degree or Surgical Technology credential; certification/licensure per text.

Responsibilities

• Maintains sterile environment and asepsis throughout procedures.
• Coordinates supplies and equipment to support the department.
• Performs intraoperative assisting as directed by the surgeon and RN supervision.
• Supports room turnover and patient care planning in the OR.

Skills

Asepsis

Intraoperative assisting

Patient care

Education

Associate’s Degree

Surgical Technology

Certificate of Completion

Tools

Autoclave operation

Surgical instruments

Job description

Overview

The Surgical Assistant functions as an integral part of the perioperative team as the assistant to the surgeon. Functions when required as the first or second surgical technician or second circulator under the direct supervision of the RN.

We’re seeking a skilled and dedicated Surgical Assistant to join our Operating Room team. We offer a variety of shifts and scheduling options, giving you the flexibility to find the right fit for your lifestyle and career goals.

Why Work Here?

• Collaborative, High‑Performing Team: Work alongside experienced surgeons, nurses, and clinical staff who value teamwork, communication, and patient-centered care.
• Career Growth and Development: We provide ongoing training, continuing education support, and opportunities to advance your skills and grow within the organization.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Work in a modern surgical environment equipped with advanced technology and tools to support your best work.
• Strong Culture of Support: From leadership to your day‑to‑day coworkers, you’ll feel supported, welcomed, and empowered to thrive.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, robust benefits, and added perks that support your well‑being—both professionally and personally.

If you’re passionate about excellent patient care and want to be part of a team that truly makes a difference, we’d love to connect with you!

Full‑time and Part‑time positions qualifies for a $5,000 sign‑on bonus!!!

Relocation available if moving 50+ miles!!! (Full‑time and Part‑time only)

Qualifications

Education Level

Field of Study

• Associate‘s Degree
• Surgical Technology
• Or
• Certificate of Completion
• Surgical Technology
• Or
• Experience In Lieu of Education

Licenses/Certifications

• Basic Life Support (BLS) within 30 days - American Heart Association (AHA)
• And
• Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) - National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants (NCCSA)
• Or
• Licensed Surgical Assistant within 1 year - Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
• Or
• Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) within 1 year - National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)

Work Experience

Length of Experience

• Operating room scrub
• 2+ years

Responsibilities

Essential Functions

Applies the principles of asepsis in a knowledgeable manner to maintain a sterile environment. Demonstrates competency in select technical and psychomotor skills, judgment and appropriate knowledge base. Provides age specific care to obstetrical patients in accordance with the established policies and procedures of the department.

Assists in organization and coordination of supplies and equipment to maintain an efficient and cost effective department.

Initiates appropriate intraoperative behavior unique to first assisting.

Maintains a safe environment for patients, co-workers and self. Demonstrates awareness of and adherence to safety and legal requirements established at the hospital and unit level and established policies and procedures.

Applies knowledge of normal and pathologic anatomy and physiology.

Performs scrubbing duties as needed.

Performs preceptor duties.

Charges for equipment and supplies.

Assists nurse in planning patient care.

Effectively operates autoclave sterilization units

Assists in room turnover.

Department Specific Job Function

• Applies principles of asepsis to maintain sterility during surgical set up and procedure
• Knows anatomy and physiology
• Assist with supplies, equipment, and positioning of patient for procedures
• Knowledgeable of closure techniques and can perform closure of all layers of skin
• Scrubbing duties to include classes for Medical Students, Residents, and other students.
• Knowledgeable of assisting surgeons during procedure i.e. suctioning, tying, camera holding, retracting, etc.