How much does a Surgical Assistants make in California?
Last updated: 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Assist in operations, under the supervision of surgeons. May, in accordance with state laws, help surgeons to make incisions and close surgical sites, manipulate or remove tissues, implant surgical devices or drains, suction the surgical site, place catheters, clamp or cauterize vessels or tissue, and apply dressings to surgical site.
Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor
Salaries for Surgical Assistants in California range from $52,220 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $69,440 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $54,080 and $69,440.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $52,220 | $25.11 | $4,351 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,080 | $26.00 | $4,506 |
| Median (50th) | $60,290 | $28.99 | $5,024 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,440 | $33.38 | $5,786 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $69,440 | $33.38 | $5,786 |
Note: The mean (average) salary of $61,180 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.
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What does this salary really buy? See Surgical Assistants salary in California adjusted for cost of living →
Compare Surgical Assistants pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2024 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS