Anesthesiologist Assistants
Anesthesiologist assistants administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgical and non-surgical procedures in hospitals, surgical centers, and other medical facilities. They work alongside anesthesiologists to manage patient sedation, track vital signs, and ensure patient safety throughout treatment.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against anesthesiologist assistants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing patients for anesthesia, starting IVs, and monitoring equipment before procedures begin. During surgery, assistants continuously track heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs, adjusting anesthesia doses as needed. They document patient data, respond to changes in patient condition, and communicate with the surgical team. Work shifts often span mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends depending on the facility's surgical schedule.
Who this work suits
Holland code CSI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You value structured environments with clear protocols and detailed procedures—aspects of conventional work. You also enjoy direct patient interaction and being part of a healthcare team that helps people through vulnerable moments, reflecting social interests. Success requires attention to detail, quick decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $134,710 | $165,690 | $192,370 | 4,790 |
| California | $136,730 | $165,650 | $206,990 | 13,600 |
| Washington | $138,050 | $164,360 | $177,930 | 3,540 |
| Hawaii | $126,780 | $164,050 | $170,060 | 530 |
| New York | $134,480 | $160,880 | $174,710 | 19,140 |
| Oregon | $134,390 | $155,780 | $169,550 | 2,250 |
| New Hampshire | $134,050 | $150,960 | $170,790 | 1,060 |
| Alaska | $126,530 | $150,700 | $169,930 | 700 |
| Vermont | $131,400 | $150,490 | $166,050 | 410 |
| Massachusetts | $128,020 | $142,410 | $169,980 | 4,470 |
| Montana | $129,750 | $141,470 | $156,350 | 600 |
| Minnesota | $131,720 | $141,190 | $163,690 | 3,660 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants (AA-C) — National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants
- Physician Assistant - Certified (PA-C) — National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
- Orthopaedic Physician's Assistant Certification (OPA-C) — National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Physician's Assistants
- Certified Physician Assistant - Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery (CVTS) — National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
- Certified Physician Assistant - Hospital Medicine (CPA-HM) — National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
- Certified Physician Assistant - Emergency Medicine (PA-CEM) — National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against anesthesiologist assistants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-1071.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.