Surgical Assistant, Supervisor Lead

University of Chicago Medicine • Chicago, IL

22d

About The Position

Be part of a world-class academic healthcare system at UChicago Medicine as a Surgical Assistant, Supervisor Lead . In this role, you will S upervise and develop a team of Surgical Assistants while partnering with perioperative leadership to ensure efficient daily operations. In this dynamic position, you will guide and mentor a team of Surgical Assistants while partnering with perioperative leadership to drive excellence in surgical operations. Blending hands-on clinical practice with leadership responsibilities, you will actively participate in complex surgical procedures alongside attending surgeons while also shaping team performance through staffing, development, and operational oversight. This is a unique opportunity to advance your career, lead with impact, and contribute to exceptional patient outcomes in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5+ years of experience as a Surgical Assistant in a clinical specialty setting.
• Prior leadership, charge, or supervisory experience preferred, with a passion for mentoring and developing others.
• Licensed Surgical Assistant in the State of Illinois (required).
• Current certification as a Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) and/or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) required.
• Certification eligible to practice in both Illinois and Indiana (as applicable).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and general computer applications.

Nice To Haves

• Proven clinical expertise with the ability to perform confidently in complex surgical environments.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to coach, inspire, and elevate team performance.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across multidisciplinary teams.
• Self-directed, proactive, and highly organized with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Passion for education, continuous improvement, and delivering exceptional patient care.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Surgical Assistants, fostering a collaborative, engaged, and patient-focused culture.
• Serve as a clinical expert and role model by actively assisting in surgical procedures and delivering exceptional patient care in partnership with the attending surgeon.
• Collaborate with the Perioperative Director to oversee daily operations, including staffing, scheduling, and optimal resource utilization to support safe, efficient surgical services.
• Manage key people functions such as hiring, onboarding, coaching, performance management, and employee engagement to support team success and retention.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives, including quality, safety, and professional development programs for the Surgical Assistant team.
• Act as a liaison between Surgical Assistants and perioperative leadership, ensuring clear communication and alignment on departmental goals.
• Identify and support educational opportunities, ensuring team members meet required competencies and continue to grow professionally.
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety, and service excellence while maintaining compliance with hospital policies and regulatory standards.
• Participate in departmental and organizational meetings, contributing insights and sharing updates with the team.
• Oversee administrative responsibilities such as timecard approvals and related team support functions.
• Perform all core Surgical Assistant duties across preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases under the direction of the attending surgeon.
• Prepare for procedures by reviewing patient information, coordinating required equipment, and ensuring readiness of the surgical environment.
• Assist with patient positioning, sterile preparation, and intraoperative support to optimize surgical outcomes.
• Execute advanced surgical tasks within scope, including tissue handling, retraction, hemostasis, suturing, wound closure, and application of dressings.
• Support minimally invasive and open procedures by handling instruments, devices, and surgical technology as directed.
• Assist with placement of drains, catheters, and other devices, and support specimen handling and verification.
• Respond effectively in critical situations, including intraoperative emergencies, to support patient safety.

Benefits

• UChicago Medicine is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, civil union status, parental status, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status and other legally protected characteristics.
• As a condition of employment, all employees are required to complete a pre-employment physical, background check, drug screening, and comply with the flu vaccination requirements prior to hire. Medical and religious exemptions will be considered for flu vaccination consistent with applicable law.
• Review the full complement of benefit options for eligible roles at Benefits - UChicago Medicine

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees