How Much Does a Surgical Assistant Make: Understanding Salaries, Pros and Cons

Introduction

A surgical assistant plays an important role in the operating room, performing critical tasks that are vital to the success of surgeries. As with any career, salary is an important consideration for those working in this field. In this article, we will explore how much a surgical assistant can expect to make, factors that determine their salary, and compare earnings to other medical professions. We’ll also share some real-life insights and discuss the pros and cons of working as a surgical assistant. Whether you’re considering a career as a surgical assistant or simply curious, this article will provide valuable information.

7 Factors That Determine a Surgical Assistant’s Salary

Several factors can influence a surgical assistant’s salary, including:

A. Experience

Experience is a critical factor in determining a surgical assistant’s salary. Those who have been in the field for several years typically earn more than those who are just starting out. Surgeons and medical facilities often value experience, as it can indicate a level of expertise and reliability.

B. Education and certifications

Education and certifications also play a role in salary determination. Most surgical assistants have completed an accredited surgical assisting program, which usually takes two years. Certification can also boost earnings potential. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting offers certification for surgical assistants, which is recognized by many employers.

C. Geographic location

The geographic location of a surgical assistant can also play a role in how much they earn. Cost of living, demand for surgical assistants, and healthcare budgets all factor into salary determination. For example, surgical assistants in large cities may earn more than those in rural areas, but they may also face higher living expenses.

D. Type of surgery and medical facility

The type of surgery and medical facility where a surgical assistant works can also affect their salary. Higher-risk surgeries, such as cardiac surgery or neurosurgery, typically pay more than lower-risk surgeries. Additionally, larger medical facilities may pay more than smaller ones.

E. Type of employment (full-time, part-time, contract)

Whether a surgical assistant is employed full-time or part-time can also impact their salary. Contract or temporary workers may earn more money per hour, but they do not typically receive benefits such as health insurance or retirement savings plans. Full-time employees often qualify for these benefits.

F. Occupational demands

The demands of the job also play a role in salary determination. Surgical assistants may be required to work long hours or be on call, which can affect their earnings. Those who work in high-pressure, high-stakes environments, such as trauma centers, may also earn more money.

G. Competition in the job market

The job market for surgical assistants can also influence salaries. In areas with high demand and few surgical assistants available, employers may offer higher salaries to attract and retain talent. Conversely, areas with an abundance of surgical assistants may not offer as high wages.

The ABCs of Surgical Assistant Salaries

So, how much can a surgical assistant expect to earn? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for surgical technologists, which includes surgical assistants, was $48,300 as of May 2020. However, several factors can affect this number.

A. Average salaries for surgical assistants

According to Salary.com, the average salary for a surgical assistant in the United States is $69,276 as of June 2021. However, salaries can range from $56,381 to $82,613 depending on experience, location, and other factors. The top 10% of surgical assistants earn more than $94,000 per year.

B. Comparison of salaries based on work schedule and benefits

Full-time surgical assistants typically receive benefits such as health insurance, paid vacation time, and retirement savings plans. Part-time and contract workers may not receive these benefits, but they may receive higher hourly wages. According to Payscale.com, full-time surgical assistants earn an average of $23.84 per hour, while part-time workers earn an average of $30.92 per hour.

C. Explanation of salary scales based on years of experience

Experience is a key factor in salary determination for surgical assistants. According to Salary.com, surgical assistants with less than one year of experience earn an average of $62,020 per year, while those with more than 20 years of experience earn an average of $76,011 per year.

D. Explanation of bonuses and benefits that supplement the salary

Bonuses and benefits can also supplement a surgical assistant’s salary. Many employers offer signing bonuses or annual performance bonuses. Additionally, some medical facilities offer tuition reimbursement programs for surgical assistants who want to advance their education and careers.

The Pros and Cons of a Career as a Surgical Assistant

Like any career, working as a surgical assistant has its advantages and drawbacks. It’s important to understand these before pursuing this career path.

A. Financial rewards of the job

One of the top advantages of working as a surgical assistant is the financial rewards. The salary can be quite competitive, and benefits such as health insurance and retirement savings plans are often available for full-time employees.

B. Unique benefits compared to other medical professions

Working as a surgical assistant can also offer unique benefits compared to other medical professions. Surgical assistants have the opportunity to work closely with surgeons and other medical professionals, playing a vital role in saving lives and improving patients’ health. Additionally, the work can be fast-paced and exciting, keeping job satisfaction high.

C. Drawbacks such as occupational hazards or long work hours

However, the job also comes with some drawbacks. Surgical assistants may be exposed to occupational hazards such as bloodborne pathogens and radiation. Additionally, long work hours, on-call shifts, and the pressure to perform in high-stress situations can be challenging.

How a Surgical Assistant’s Salary Compares to Other Medical Careers

How does a surgical assistant’s salary compare to other medical careers? It’s important to note that the job description and responsibilities for each profession can affect earnings potential.

A. Comparison between surgical assistants, registered nurses, anesthesiologists and other medical professions

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical technologists earn less than registered nurses and anesthesiologists, but more than medical assistants and phlebotomists. In general, surgical assistants earn a competitive salary compared to many other medical professions.

B. Explanation of how the job description and responsibilities of each job affects the salary scale

The job description and responsibilities of each medical profession can affect earnings potential. Nurses and anesthesiologists typically require more education and certifications, which can lead to higher earning potential. Medical assistants and phlebotomists typically have less demanding job responsibilities, which can result in lower earnings.

Real-Life Stories: What it’s Like to Work as a Surgical Assistant

To provide an inside look at what it’s like to work as a surgical assistant, we spoke with several individuals currently working in this field.

A. Interviews with actual surgical assistants

Helene C., a surgical assistant with 10 years of experience, shared that her favorite part of her job is “the excitement of being in the operating room and having a front-row seat to surgeries.” She also commented on the financial rewards, stating that “the salary is competitive and the job security is good.” However, she acknowledged that the job can be physically demanding and requires a high level of concentration.

Sean C., a contract surgical assistant, shared that he enjoys the flexibility and freedom that his job offers. However, he also noted that being a contract worker means that he does not receive any benefits through his employer. He emphasized the importance of negotiating contracts and rates to ensure that he is fairly compensated.

B. Personal experiences and insights

Several surgical assistants we spoke with commented on the unique challenges and rewards of the job. Some noted that working in the operating room can be stressful and emotionally taxing, while others commented on the sense of satisfaction that comes from helping patients and seeing positive outcomes from surgeries.

C. Perks and disadvantages of the job

Overall, the surgical assistants we spoke with emphasized the financial rewards and job satisfaction that come with their jobs. However, they also acknowledged the challenges, such as long work hours and occupational hazards.

D. Details about how they got started in the field

Most of the surgical assistants we spoke with had completed accredited surgical assisting programs and/or had previous experience in healthcare. They emphasized the importance of gaining experience and certifications to advance in the field and boost earning potential.

The Future of Surgical Assistant Salaries

What does the future hold for surgical assistant salaries? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for surgical technologists is projected to be faster than average between 2019 and 2029. This increased demand could potentially lead to higher salaries for surgical assistants. Additionally, advancements in medical technology could change the job responsibilities and requirements for surgical assistants, which could also impact earnings potential.

A. The outlook for job growth and salary in the future

The job outlook for surgical assistants is positive, with an expected 7% growth rate over the next several years. This growth in demand could result in higher salaries.

B. Predicted impact of evolving medical technology

As medical technology evolves, the responsibilities and requirements for surgical assistants could change. For example, as robotic surgery becomes more common, surgical assistants may need to learn new skills and gain new certifications. This could potentially impact salary levels.

C. Emerging job markets and urgent needs

In some areas, there may be emerging job markets and urgent needs for surgical assistants. For example, in rural areas with aging populations, there may be a greater need for surgical assistants to help with age-related surgeries. These types of trends could drive up salaries in certain areas and specialties.

Salary Negotiation Tips for Surgical Assistants

If you’re a surgical assistant or considering this career path, it’s important to know how to negotiate for a better salary. Here are some tips:

A. Key considerations when negotiating for a better salary

When negotiating for a better salary, keep in mind factors such as your experience, certifications, and geographic location. Research average salaries for surgical assistants in your area to ensure that you are being fairly compensated.

B. Advice for negotiating salary raises or bonuses

When negotiating a salary raise or performance bonus, be prepared to provide documentation of your contributions to the organization. Highlight specific examples of your skills and accomplishments, and explain how these have benefited the company.

C. Pointers for successful negotiation with potential employers

When negotiating with potential employers, be sure to research the company’s values and mission to ensure that they align with your own. Emphasize your qualifications and experience, and explain how you can bring value to the organization.

Conclusion

Understanding a surgical assistant’s salary is important for those considering this career path or currently working in the field. The job can offer financial rewards, unique benefits, and exciting challenges, but it also comes with drawbacks and challenges. By exploring the factors that influence surgical assistant salaries, comparing earnings to other medical professions, and learning from real-life experiences, readers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of this important job.