How Much Do Surgical Assistants Make?
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Surgical assistants in the United States earn an average annual salary of $65,190, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With nearly 19,000 professionals employed in this role nationwide, surgical assisting continues to be a vital and rewarding career in health care.
These skilled professionals play a crucial role in the operating room, working alongside surgeons to ensure procedures run smoothly and efficiently. Surgical assistants help prepare patients for surgery, assist during operations, and provide post-operative care. In this article, we'll dive deeper into the world of surgical assisting, exploring how salaries and employment opportunities vary across different regions of the country. We'll also compare this profession to similar roles in the medical field, offering valuable insights for those considering a career in surgical assisting or looking to advance their current position in health care.
Highest Paying States for Surgical Assistants
Surgical assistants can enjoy lucrative salaries depending on their geographic location. According to the latest data, several states offer competitive compensation for professionals in this field:
- Minnesota leads the way with an average annual salary of $104,420 and an hourly mean wage of $50.20. The state employs approximately 390 surgical assistants.
- Maryland offers the second-highest average salary at $92,810, with an hourly wage of $44.62 and a total employment of 270.
- Colorado follows closely, providing an average annual salary of $90,640 and an hourly wage of $43.58, with 200 surgical assistants employed in the states.
Other states with noteworthy salaries include:
- New Jersey, where surgical assistants earn an average of $84,030 annually, with a total employment of 420.
- South Carolina, offering $81,250 on average per year and employing 650 surgical assistants.
These states not only offer attractive salaries but also provide a considerable number of employment opportunities, making them desirable locations for surgical assistants seeking competitive compensation.
Comparing Salaries in Surgical and Physician Support Roles
When examining the salaries of surgical technologists, physician assistants, and surgical assistants, there are noticeable differences in earnings. Surgical technologists earn an average annual salary of $62,250, or about $29.93 per hour. In comparison, physician assistants have a significantly higher average salary, making $130,490 annually, which translates to approximately $62.74 per hour. Surgical assistants earn slightly more than surgical technologists, with an average salary of $65,190 per year or $31.34 per hour.
In terms of employment, physician assistants have the largest workforce among these roles, with 145,740 employed. Surgical technologists are also in high demand, with 110,320 employed. However, surgical assistants have a smaller workforce, with only 18,780 employed. This data highlights the varying levels of income and employment opportunities available in these healthcare support roles.
Bottom Line
For those considering a career as a surgical assistant, the profession offers both competitive salaries and the opportunity to play a critical role in the health care system. On average, surgical assistants in the United States earn $65,190 annually, positioning them above surgical technologists in terms of salary but below physician assistants. With nearly 19,000 positions nationwide, this career path is both vital and rewarding, offering numerous opportunities for those interested in the medical field.
When deciding where to practice, location can significantly impact earnings. States such as Minnesota, Maryland, and Colorado offer some of the highest salaries in the nation, making them attractive options for surgical assistants. Key takeaways for aspiring surgical assistants include:
- Salary Variability: Annual earnings can vary significantly by state, with Minnesota leading at $104,420.
- Role Importance: Surgical assistants are essential in the operating room, ensuring surgeries are conducted smoothly and efficiently.
- Career Growth: Despite a smaller workforce compared to other roles, such as physician assistants, the demand for surgical assistants remains strong, offering a promising career path in health care.
This information can help guide individuals in making informed decisions about pursuing and advancing a career in surgical assisting.