How to become surgical assistantseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$66,800
25th–75th pct. $50,170–$88,010
Top pay (est.)
$139,900
Top 10% $107,610
Pay in 5 years
$78,700est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$92,800est.
$79,800–$107,700
Outlook score
62/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
19%
Very low
Job growth (10 yr)
+6.1%
1,400 openings / yr
How to become surgical assistants
Typical education
Postsecondary nondegree award
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Surgical Assistants
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Assisting and Caring for OthersMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsHandling and Moving ObjectsIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsInspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Important abilities
Near VisionFinger DexterityOral ComprehensionArm-Hand SteadinessOral ExpressionProblem Sensitivity
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as surgical assistants
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.