How much does a Surgical Medical Assistant make?
A Surgical Medical Assistant plays a key role in the operating room. They help surgeons and other medical staff during surgeries. This job is very important and comes with a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Surgical Medical Assistant is around $62,933. This means that most people in this job earn between $28,160 and $169,000 each year. The exact amount can depend on many factors, including experience, location, and the type of hospital or clinic.
The salary range for Surgical Medical Assistants shows that there is good potential for growth. Those with more experience and specialized skills often earn more. For example, those in the top 10% of earners make over $143,393 a year. This highlights the importance of gaining experience and possibly getting extra certifications. Working in a larger city or a specialized medical center can also lead to higher pay. This job offers stability and the chance to earn a good living.
What are the highest paying cities for a Surgical Medical Assistant?

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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $103,791
In Denver, a medical assistant in surgery can expect a dynamic work environment. With top healthcare facilities like UCHealth and Denver Health, professionals find ample opportunities for growth. The city's vibrant culture and outdoor activities make it a great place to live and work.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $102,817
Las Vegas offers a unique setting for medical assistants in surgery. The city's numerous hospitals and clinics, such as MountainView Hospital, provide diverse experiences. The lively atmosphere and entertainment options make it an exciting place to build a career.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $98,085
Nashville is a great place for those in surgical assisting. The city's healthcare sector, with institutions like Vanderbilt University Medical Center, offers solid career prospects. The warm community and rich music scene add to the appeal of working here.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $72,256
Tucson provides a balanced lifestyle for surgical medical assistants. The city's healthcare facilities, including Banner - University Medicine, offer good career opportunities. The pleasant weather and outdoor activities make it a desirable location.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $68,608
Colorado Springs is ideal for those seeking a quieter environment. The city's healthcare providers, such as Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, offer stable job opportunities. The scenic beauty and outdoor adventures enhance the quality of life.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $55,332
Cincinnati offers a mix of urban and suburban life for medical assistants. The city's healthcare institutions, like the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, provide diverse experiences. The rich cultural scene and affordability make it an attractive place to work.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $55,034
Indianapolis is a growing city with many opportunities for surgical assistants. The healthcare sector, including Indiana University Health, offers a range of job options. The city's friendly community and sports events add to its appeal.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $54,247
Seattle provides a vibrant setting for medical assistants in surgery. The city's healthcare facilities, such as Swedish Medical Center, offer excellent career prospects. The tech industry and outdoor activities make it a dynamic place to live and work.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $48,304
San Antonio offers a warm and welcoming environment for surgical assistants. The city's healthcare providers, including University Hospital, offer good job opportunities. The rich culture and affordable living make it an attractive place to build a career.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $45,431
Tampa provides a sunny and lively setting for medical assistants. The city's healthcare institutions, such as Tampa General Hospital, offer excellent career opportunities. The warm climate and beach access add to the appeal of working here.
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What are the best companies a Surgical Medical Assistant can work for?

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Clinical Management Consultants
Average Salary: $165,394
Clinical Management Consultants offers top-tier salaries for Surgical Medical Assistants. They provide healthcare staffing and consulting services across the United States. Their Surgical Medical Assistants work in various locations, ensuring they have diverse opportunities.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $100,657
Kaiser Permanente is a leading healthcare provider with numerous locations nationwide. They offer competitive salaries for Surgical Medical Assistants. These professionals assist in surgeries and patient care, contributing to high-quality healthcare services.
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Favorite Healthcare Staffing
Average Salary: $99,576
Favorite Healthcare Staffing specializes in placing healthcare professionals in various roles. They offer attractive salaries for Surgical Medical Assistants. Their positions are available in many states, providing flexibility and growth opportunities.
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Dermatology Associates of Concord
Average Salary: $47,564
Dermatology Associates of Concord is a specialized practice focusing on skin care. They offer a good salary for Surgical Medical Assistants. These professionals work in their Concord, Massachusetts location, supporting dermatologists in patient care.
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Burger King
Average Salary: $45,710
Burger King offers a decent salary for Surgical Medical Assistants. They operate globally, providing various job opportunities. Their roles may not be directly related to surgery but offer valuable experience in a fast-paced environment.
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Proliance Surgeons
Average Salary: $43,516
Proliance Surgeons is a well-known surgical practice with locations in Washington. They offer a competitive salary for Surgical Medical Assistants. These professionals assist in surgeries and patient care, ensuring smooth operations.
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O'Reilly Auto Parts
Average Salary: $41,846
O'Reilly Auto Parts offers a good salary for Surgical Medical Assistants. They operate nationwide, providing various job opportunities. Their roles may not be directly related to surgery but offer valuable experience in a retail setting.
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Anne Arundel Dermatology
Average Salary: $41,342
Anne Arundel Dermatology is a leading dermatology practice with multiple locations. They offer a good salary for Surgical Medical Assistants. These professionals assist in surgeries and patient care, supporting dermatologists in providing excellent care.
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Mercy
Average Salary: $39,222
Mercy is a large healthcare provider with numerous locations. They offer a decent salary for Surgical Medical Assistants. These professionals assist in surgeries and patient care, contributing to high-quality healthcare services.
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Derick Dermatology
Average Salary: $38,000
Derick Dermatology is a specialized practice focusing on skin care. They offer a good salary for Surgical Medical Assistants. These professionals work in their locations in Illinois, supporting dermatologists in patient care.
How to earn more as a Surgical Medical Assistant?
To increase earnings as a Surgical Medical Assistant, consider focusing on professional growth and specialization. Gaining additional certifications can open up higher-paying job opportunities. For instance, becoming certified in areas like sterile processing or advanced cardiac life support can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Continuous education and training can lead to better roles and higher salaries.
Networking within the medical field also plays a crucial role. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to job referrals and opportunities that may not be publicly advertised. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and participating in online forums can enhance visibility and career prospects. Additionally, seeking positions in high-demand areas or specialized hospitals can result in higher compensation packages. Persistence in career development and staying informed about industry trends will further support earning potential.
Here are five factors to consider for increasing earnings:
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Pursue continuous education and training.
- Network with other medical professionals.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas.
- Stay informed about industry trends.