Surgical Assistant

Title: Surgical Assistant
Practice: Columbia Oral Surgery & Dental Implants
Location: Columbia MO 65203
Hours:

Monday - Wednesday 7:00AM-3:30PM
Thursday 6:00AM - 3:30PM 
Friday 6:00AM – 2:00PM

Position Purpose:

The surgical assistant is responsible for ensuring the compassionate, effective, and efficient delivery of high-quality clinical care for patients while practicing and providing safety in the work environment. The ideal candidate will assist oral surgeons during procedures, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow in a fast-paced environment. This role requires a strong understanding of surgical procedures, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care.

Essential Functions: 

Patient Care & Clinical Support

• Provide exemplary patient care and ensure the highest level of service during all interactions.
• Communicate with patients and families in a professional, empathetic, and educational manner.
• Prepare patients for surgical procedures, including reviewing medical histories, confirming documentation, and ensuring patient understanding of pre- and post-operative instructions.
• Assist oral surgeons throughout all surgical procedures, anticipating needs, maintaining sterile technique, and ensuring all instruments and materials are available and functional.
• Monitor and record patient vital signs during surgery, reporting concerns promptly.
• Provide postoperative care and patient education, ensuring clear communication of aftercare instructions.

Surgical & Clinical Operations

• Set up, maintain, and break down surgical operatories following strict aseptic and safety protocols.
• Sterilize, organize, and maintain surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all patient encounters and surgical procedures.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of surgical instrumentation, oral surgery procedures, and infection control standards.
• Support sedation and anesthesia workflows in compliance with practice and regulatory requirements.

Compliance, Safety & Quality Assurance

• Adhere to all clinical, OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control standards.
• Participate in monthly safety and compliance checks, including:
• Crash cart/verifications
• Fire extinguisher checks
• Emergency preparedness attestations
• X-ray unit calibration
• Omni-cam calibration
• Controlled substance log accuracy and inventory
• Oxygen tank maintenance
• Controlled substance invoice documentation
• Ensure strict adherence to controlled substance handling and safety procedures.

 Teamwork & Professional Development

• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and professional team environment.
• Participate in regular staff meetings, training sessions, and continuing education as required.
• Support workflow efficiency by maintaining organized, clean, and fully stocked clinical areas

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required (some college, preferred)
• Basic life support certification required. Employers will provide training if the candidate is not current.

Experience:

• Previous dental experience – Preferred not required
• Experience as an oral surgery assistant or dental assistant is preferred. (Will train the right candidate.)
• Basic life support certification – Employer will assist if not completed

Performance Requirements:

• Advanced knowledge of oral surgery procedures, surgical instruments, and sterile techniques.
• Strong ability to anticipate surgeon needs and respond quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and patient-interaction skills.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and exercise sound judgment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in clinical documentation.
• Proficiency with computer systems, electronic health records, and digital imaging.
• Ability to work independently while supporting a high-performance team environment.
• Positive, professional, and adaptable demeanor.

• We offer Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans to our full-time employees.
• Two out of the three medical plans offered include Health Savings Account (HSA) eligibility.
• Company-paid Life, AD&D and Long-Term Disability coverage.
• Additional Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance for you and your family!
• Voluntary Short-Term Disability Insurance available to you as well
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) offered.
• Immediately begin saving for retirement through our 401(k) starting with very first paycheck!
• Employer 401(k) contribution and Profit Sharing after six months of employment
• PTO and 8 Paid holidays for fulltime employees!

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people assigned to this work.  This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.  OPS’s management reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.