Medical Assistant in Sheridan, WY

The Salary Picture: Where Sheridan Stands

If you're a Medical Assistant (MA) looking at Sheridan, Wyoming, the first thing to know is that the pay is solid for the region, but you won't be getting rich. The key is understanding how your experience translates to dollars here, especially compared to the rest of the state. The national average for MAs sits at $38,270/year, but Sheridan’s median salary is $37,213/year, or $17.89/hour. That’s a slight dip from the national average, but it’s important to contextualize that within Wyoming’s economic landscape. The state has a lower cost of living than much of the country, and the healthcare market here is regionally focused.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to earn based on your experience level in the Sheridan metro area:

| Experience Level | Sheridan Median Salary | Sheridan Median Hourly | Notes |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $31,500 - $34,000 | $15.14 - $16.35 | Typically starts at clinics or large family practices. |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $36,000 - $40,000 | $17.31 - $19.23 | This is the true median range for most local MAs. |
| Senior (8-12 years) | $40,000 - $44,000 | $19.23 - $21.15 | Often leads to lead MA or phlebotomy specialist roles. |
| Expert/Specialized (12+ years) | $45,000+ | $21.63+ | Requires specialty certs (EKG, podiatry, etc.) or management. |

When you compare Sheridan to other Wyoming cities, the landscape gets interesting. Cheyenne and Casper, as the two largest metros, command higher salaries—often $39,000-$41,000 for MAs—due to more competition and a higher concentration of specialty clinics and hospitals. However, Sheridan’s 38 MA jobs in the metro area offer a more stable, less volatile market. The 10-year job growth projection is a healthy 15%, which outpaces many rural regions. This growth is largely driven by an aging population and the expansion of services at Sheridan Memorial Hospital and affiliated clinics. For a local, this means you’re not just filling a role; you’re becoming part of a long-term healthcare fabric. Insider Tip: Don’t just look at the base salary. Many local employers, especially the hospital, offer on-call pay for MAs who work in surgery or urgent care, which can bump your annual take-home by several thousand dollars.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real. A salary of $37,213/year sounds different on paper than it does in your bank account. After federal taxes, Wyoming’s state income tax (which is 0%), and FICA, your monthly take-home pay will be approximately $2,550. Now, factor in the local cost of living. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Sheridan is $876/month. The Cost of Living Index for Sheridan is 90.8, compared to the US average of 100, meaning it’s about 9% cheaper to live here than the national average.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a single MA living alone in Sheridan:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay (after taxes)	~$2,550	Based on $37,213 annual salary
Rent (1BR Average)	$876	Can be lower in some neighborhoods
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	$180	Varies by season (heating costs in winter)
Groceries	$300	Prices are moderate, comparable to national average
Car Payment/Insurance	$350	Essential; public transit is limited
Health Insurance (if not covered)	$150	Employer plans are common but vary
Miscellaneous/Entertainment	$200	Dining out, hobbies, etc.
Total Monthly Expenses	$2,056
Remaining for Savings/Debt	~$494

Can you afford to buy a home? It’s challenging but possible. The median home price in Sheridan County is around $300,000. With a $37,213 salary, a standard 20% down payment ($60,000) is out of reach for most. However, first-time homebuyer programs, VA loans, and FHA loans with lower down payments are options. Your debt-to-income ratio would be tight. Insider Tip: Many local MAs choose to rent longer or buy a small, older home on the outskirts (e.g., in the Ranchester area) where prices are lower. The key is to build a strong savings plan and consider a dual-income household to make homeownership feasible.

Where the Jobs Are: Sheridan's Major Employers

Sheridan’s healthcare job market is dominated by a few key players, creating a stable but competitive environment. The metro population of 19,035 supports this network, and jobs are concentrated in these institutions:

1. Sheridan Memorial Hospital (SMH): The largest employer. They have a wide range of MA positions in their Family Clinic, Specialty Clinics (Cardiology, Orthopedics, etc.), and Surgical Services. Hiring trends show a steady need for MAs with phlebotomy and EKG certification. Their benefits package is considered one of the best in the region.
2. Wyoming Medical Center (WMC) - Sheridan Clinic: Part of the larger WMC network, this multi-specialty clinic is a major hub for MAs. They are actively growing their internal medicine and pediatric services, creating new MA roles. They often prioritize candidates with experience in electronic health records (EHR), specifically Epic or Cerner.
3. Billings Clinic - Sheridan: A regional referral center. While their primary campus is in Billings, MT, their Sheridan location is a critical provider. They focus on specialty care and have a strong need for MAs who can handle complex patient scheduling and assist in procedures. Hiring can be seasonal, often ramping up in summer and fall.
4. The Powder River Basin Clinic (PRBC): A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving the local and Native American communities. They offer a unique work environment with a focus on community health. They are often hiring new graduates and value a commitment to underserved populations. Salaries here are competitive with the local median.
5. Private Specialty Practices: There are numerous smaller practices in specialties like dermatology, orthopedics (e.g., Ortho Wyoming), and podiatry. These are excellent places for MAs to gain niche skills. The hiring trend is for reliability and a strong work ethic, as these are often tight-knit teams.
6. Urgent Care Centers: Sheridan has a couple of private urgent care clinics. These offer higher-paced environments and often higher starting pay ($18-$19/hour) to attract staff willing to work evenings and weekends.

Insider Tip: Networking is everything in a town this size. Join the local Wyoming Medical Assistants (WMA) chapter and attend events at the hospital. Many jobs are filled through internal referrals before they’re ever posted online.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming has a straightforward path to becoming a Medical Assistant, but it’s not a licensure state. This means you don’t need a state license to practice, but certification is universally expected by employers.

1. Education & Certification: Complete an accredited Medical Assistant program (typically 9-12 months). The most recognized certifications are the CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant) from the NHA and the CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) from the AAMA. Most Sheridan employers prefer or require one of these.
2. Cost: Program tuition ranges from $1,500 to $4,000. Certification exams cost $169 (CMA) or $169 (CCMA). Budget for textbooks and supplies on top of that.
3. Timeline: From starting a program to being job-ready, expect a timeline of 10-15 months. This includes classroom time, a required clinical externship (often 160-180 hours), and studying for your exam.
4. Background Checks: All healthcare employers in Wyoming will require a background check and a drug screen. This is an additional cost ($50-$100) and timeline (1-2 weeks) you need to account for.

Insider Tip: Wyoming’s state board of nursing does not regulate MAs, which gives you flexibility. However, always pursue the CMA (AAMA) if you can; it is the most prestigious credential and is recognized by the national accrediting bodies for healthcare programs. It gives you a competitive edge in every market.

Best Neighborhoods for Medical Assistants

Choosing where to live in Sheridan depends on your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a local’s guide:

1. Downtown Sheridan: Walkable, charming, and full of amenities. You’re close to the hospital, clinics, and restaurants. Rent for a 1BR is closer to $950/month. Ideal for MAs who want a social life and a short commute. Parking can be a challenge in winter.
2. North Sheridan (The "The Boulevard" Area): This area is residential and quiet, with a mix of older homes and newer apartments. Commute to the hospital is 5-10 minutes by car. Rent averages $850/month. Great for those seeking a calmer setting.
3. South Sheridan: More suburban, with family-oriented neighborhoods and easy access to shopping centers. Commute to the hospital is 10-15 minutes. Rent is moderate, around $825/month. A solid choice for MAs with families or those who want more space.
4. Ranchester (15 minutes north): A small, tight-knit community just outside Sheridan. Rent is significantly lower (~$700/month), but you’ll deal with a longer, though simple, commute. Excellent for those prioritizing savings and a rural feel.
5. The Crest Hill Area: A hilltop neighborhood with great views and larger, older homes. It’s a bit more exclusive, with rents potentially higher ($1,000+), but it’s very safe and has a strong community feel. Commute is short.

Insider Tip: The biggest factor here is winter driving. If you’re not used to snow and ice, living closer to your workplace (Downtown or North Sheridan) is a significant safety and stress advantage. All-wheel drive is a near-necessity for most of the year.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying in Sheridan as an MA requires a long-term strategy. The 15% job growth over 10 years is positive, but advancement often means diversifying your skills.

• Specialty Premiums: MAs with additional certifications are in high demand and can command $2-$3 more per hour. The most valuable in Sheridan are:
  • Phlebotomy (CPT): Almost a requirement for many clinic roles.
  • EKG Technician (CET): Needed for cardiology and urgent care.
  • Podiatric Medical Assistant: With a local podiatry practice, this niche skill is golden.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Lead MA/Office Manager: After 5-7 years, you can move into supervisory roles, managing other MAs and clinic flow.
  • Specialty MA: Work exclusively in cardiology, orthopedics, or surgery, which often comes with a pay bump and deeper procedural skills.
  • Education/Training: Experienced MAs can become clinical instructors for local training programs.
  • Bridge to Nursing: Many MAs use their experience as a stepping stone to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs), with Sheridan Memorial Hospital offering tuition assistance programs for this path.

10-Year Outlook: The demand will remain strong, but the role will become more tech-integrated. Expect to work more with patient portals, telehealth, and advanced EHR systems. The MAs who adapt to technology while maintaining the personal touch that Wyoming residents value will have the most stable and rewarding careers.

The Verdict: Is Sheridan Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Lower Cost of Living (Index 90.8) means your $37,213 salary goes further.	Limited Job Market (only 38 MA jobs); less variety than a big city.
Stable, Growing Healthcare Sector (15% growth) with loyal employers.	Weather: Harsh, long winters with snow and ice from October-April.
Strong Community & Work-Life Balance – less burnout, more collegiality.	Isolation: 2.5 hours from Billings, MT; 4+ hours from Denver or Salt Lake City.
Outdoor Recreation – World-class hunting, hiking, and fishing at your doorstep.	Salary Ceiling: Specialized pay is lower than national hubs like Denver or Seattle.
No State Income Tax – more of your paycheck stays with you.	Housing Market: Rising prices can make buying a home tough on a single income.

Final Recommendation: Sheridan is an excellent choice for MAs who value community, outdoor lifestyle, and financial stability over high-paced city life. It’s ideal for those with 2-7 years of experience looking to plant roots. It’s not the best fit for new grads seeking the widest variety of training opportunities or for those who crave the anonymity and amenities of a large metropolis. If you can handle the winters and want a career with a clear path and a supportive environment, Sheridan is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market for a new MA grad in Sheridan?
It’s moderately competitive. While there are only 38 job openings, the 15% growth means new positions are created regularly. As a new grad, you need to highlight your externship experience and any certifications (like phlebotomy). Being willing to start in a private practice or FQHC, rather than only applying to the hospital, will significantly increase your chances.

2. Is certification required to work as an MA in Wyoming?
No, Wyoming does not require state licensure. However, it is a de facto requirement. Every major employer in Sheridan (SMH, WMC, etc.) will only hire MAs who hold a national certification like the CMA (AAMA) or CCMA (NHA). Without it, you will not be competitive.

3. What’s the real cost of moving to Sheridan?
Beyond the first/last month’s rent and security deposit (~$2,500), budget for moving expenses ($1,500-$3,000 if interstate), a winter car kit (mandatory), and establishing utility accounts. Wyoming has a lower income tax but higher-than-average car registration fees.

4. How does the weather affect the daily life of an MA?
Considerably. Your commute will involve snow and ice for much of the year. Employers are generally understanding about weather delays, but you must have a reliable vehicle. The cold also means more respiratory illnesses in winter, so clinic volumes can spike, increasing workload during certain seasons.

5. Are there opportunities for remote or hybrid work for MAs?
Very limited. The core of an MA’s job—vitals, injections, assisting with procedures—is hands-on. However, some administrative tasks (scheduling, prior authorizations) have moved to remote work for larger health systems. For a pure clinical MA role, remote work is not an option in Sheridan.