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1St Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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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.

Infographic showing various 1St Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD 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 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Surgical Assistant/OR First Assist

Arlington, VA • On-site

VHC Health
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

$45.18 - $73.17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 hours ago


VHC Health rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Title
Surgical Assistant/OR First Assist
Job Description
Purpose & Scope:
The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under direct supervision of the attending surgeon and in accordance with the goals of the Department of Surgery and the philosophy of the Division of Nursing and the policy of the Medical Staff. Interpretive skills, frequent interactive and consultative associations, are inherent in the position. The ability to retrieve, communicate, or otherwise present information in a written, auditory, or visual fashion is essential. The primary method to express or exchange ideas is through the spoken word. Written, telephone, and manual dexterity skills are required for this position.
Education:
Satisfaction of education requirements needed to obtain licensure as a Surgical Assistant by the Virginia Department of Health is required.
Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred.
Experience:
Three years of operating room experience is preferred.
Certification/Licensure:
Licensed Surgical Assistant by the Virginia Department of Health Professions required.
Certified in Surgical Assisting preferred.
Additional Job Description
At VHC Health, every role contributes to exceptional care, better outcomes, and stronger communities.
In addition to your base compensation, VHC Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage (subject to eligibility requirements), as well as additional wellness and retirement benefits designed to support our employees and their families.
VHC Health is committed to wage transparency and equitable pay practices. The compensation offered for this position-whether expressed as an annual salary or hourly rate-is determined based on a variety of legitimate, non-discriminatory factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and experience, skill level, shift differentials (where applicable), internal equity, and current market conditions.
The posted hiring range reflects the range VHC Health, in good faith, believes is appropriate for this role at the time of posting. This range may be adjusted in the future based on business needs or market changes. No portion of compensation is considered earned until it is vested and determined in accordance with the terms of applicable policies and benefit plans. The availability and amount of any bonuses, incentives, or other benefits are subject to the terms of those plans and may be modified at the sole discretion of VHC Health, in accordance with applicable law.
VHC Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.
VHC Health maintains a drug-free workplace. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited at all VHC Health locations.

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