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1St Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Inova Alexandria Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assistant in Labor and Delivery to join the team. This role will be FT and days may vary. Inova is consistently ranked a national ...

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1St Assistant information

What is a 1st assistant?

A 1st Assistant, often referred to as a First Assistant or First Assistant Director (1st AD) in the film and television industry, is responsible for coordinating the cast and crew, managing the shooting schedule, and ensuring that production runs smoothly and on time. They act as the right hand to the director, facilitating communication between departments and maintaining order on set. Their role is crucial in keeping the project organized and addressing any logistical challenges that arise during filming.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st assistant, and why are they important?

To excel as a 1st Assistant, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and anatomy, usually supported by certification as a Certified First Assistant (CFA) or similar credential. Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room protocols, and electronic health record systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you anticipate surgeon needs and support the surgical team effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring patient safety, efficient procedures, and smooth teamwork in the operating room.

What are some common challenges faced by a 1st assistant, and how can they be effectively managed?

As a 1st Assistant, one of the most common challenges is managing multiple priorities and ensuring smooth communication between the director, department heads, and crew. The role often requires rapid problem-solving and adaptability, especially when unexpected changes or time constraints arise on set. Effective organization, proactive planning, and maintaining a calm, positive attitude help address these challenges. Building strong professional relationships and being clear in your communication can also make a significant difference in ensuring production runs efficiently.

What is the difference between 1St Assistant vs 2Nd Assistant?

Aspect1St Assistant2Nd Assistant
CredentialsRelevant certifications, experience in assisting senior staffSimilar credentials, often less experience required
Work EnvironmentSupports primary assistant, often in busy or high-pressure settingsAssists the 1st Assistant, typically in less complex tasks
Industry UsageCommon in legal, medical, and corporate sectorsOften found in same industries, supporting the 1st Assistant

The 1st Assistant and 2nd Assistant roles are closely related, with the 1st Assistant typically having more experience and taking on more responsibilities. The 2nd Assistant supports the 1st Assistant and handles secondary tasks. Both roles are essential in high-demand environments like legal, medical, or corporate settings, but the 1st Assistant usually works directly with senior staff and manages more complex duties.

What cities in Washington are hiring for 1St Assistant jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most 1St Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various 1St Assistant job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Surgical First Assistant

Woodbridge, VA • On-site

Kaiser Permanente
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Kaiser Permanente rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 930 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Summary:

Under direct and immediate supervision of a surgeon will perform the role of 1st assistant during surgical procedures.

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Positions the patient in accordance with the surgeons instruction.

  • Uses standard and specialized equipment to aid in patient positioning.

  • Provides the surgeon with appropriate visualization of the operative site using retractors, sponges, digital manipulation, and other techniques according to standards.

  • Utilizes appropriate technique to assist surgeon with temporary or permanent hemostasis by providing aid in exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions that will help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient.

  • Performs duties as a surgical technician in all surgical specialties practicing in the ambulatory surgery center.

  • Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist with closure of body planes, i.e., sutures and staples.

  • Selects and applies appropriate wound dressings.

  • Assists with patient transport to and from OR, including from gurney to bed.

  • Participates in monitoring quality of care according to professional standards and established criteria.

  • Performs other related duties as indicated.

Variable shift may start at 7:00am-3:30pm or 9:00am-5:30 pm.

Position is for 8-hour shifts Monday to Friday

Basic Qualifications: Experience
  • Minimum one (1) year of continuous, documented experience of surgical technologist practice AND eligible for certification as a CSTFA or SA-C).
Education
  • High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED) required.
License, Certification, Registration
  • Surgical First Assistant Certificate within 12 months of hire from National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting OR Surgical Assistant Certificate within 12 months of hire from National Surgical Assistant Association

  • Basic Life Support required at hire

Additional Requirements:
  • Clinical competence required by attending staff development programs.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Graduate of a First Assistant Program preferred.
COMPANY: KAISER TITLE: Surgical First Assistant, Caton Hill LOCATION: Woodbridge, Virginia REQNUMBER: 1437703

External hires must pass a background check/drug screen. Qualified applicants with arrest and/or conviction records will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with Federal, state and local laws, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran, or disability status.

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