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Cardiac Surgery First Assistant information

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$10

$67

$125

How much do cardiac surgery first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cardiac surgery first assistant in the United States is $67.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $92.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a cardiac surgery first assistant?

To become a cardiac surgery first assistant, one typically needs to complete a registered nursing or surgical assisting program, gain experience as a surgical nurse or technologist, and obtain certification such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA). Strong knowledge of cardiac procedures, excellent manual dexterity, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments are essential. Licensing and hospital credentialing are also required before practicing in this role.

Where do cardiac surgery first assistants make the most money?

Cardiac surgery first assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high volume of cardiac procedures and a strong healthcare infrastructure, such as major metropolitan areas or regions with specialized cardiac centers. Salary levels are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of cases handled, with larger hospitals often offering higher compensation packages.

Who can be a cardiac surgery first assistant?

A cardiac surgery first assistant is typically a trained healthcare professional such as a surgical technologist, physician assistant, or nurse with specialized training in cardiac procedures. They must have relevant certifications, clinical experience, and knowledge of surgical instruments and protocols to assist the surgeon during cardiac operations.

What cities are hiring for Cardiac Surgery First Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Cardiac Surgery First Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Cardiac Surgery First Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cardiac Surgery First Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cardiac Surgery First Assistant jobs?

For Cardiac Surgery First Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cardiac Surgery First Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,766 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Senior Cardiac Surgery First Assist: Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA)

Baltimore, MD • On-site

University of Maryland Medical System
See more jobs at University of Maryland Medical Systemexternal

$607K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Requirements
Join One of the Nation's Premier Cardiac Surgery Programs
The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) is seeking an experienced Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, or RN First Assist with vein harvesting experience to join our nationally recognized Cardiac Surgery Team.
This is an exceptional opportunity to work alongside world-class cardiothoracic surgeons in a high-acuity academic medical center known for innovation, collaboration, and outstanding patient outcomes. As a Cardiac Surgery First Assist, you will play a critical role in complex cardiac procedures while contributing to exceptional perioperative patient care.
About the University of Maryland Medical Center
The University of Maryland Medical Center, the flagship academic hospital of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), is a nationally respected teaching hospital committed to advancing medicine through patient care, education, and research.
In partnership with the University of Maryland School of Medicine, UMMC provides leading-edge care while training the next generation of healthcare professionals. Our collaborative culture, advanced technology, and commitment to innovation make UMMC one of the region's premier destinations for healthcare professionals seeking to grow their careers.
Position Highlights
Working under the direction of an attending Cardiothoracic Surgeon, you will:
  • First assist during complex cardiac surgical procedures
  • Perform endoscopic and open saphenous vein harvesting for coronary artery bypass grafting
  • Perform radial artery harvesting and vessel preparation
  • Assist with tissue handling, hemostasis, suturing, chest tube placement, and surgical wound closure
  • Participate in preoperative planning and postoperative patient management
  • Round on cardiac surgery patients to monitor recovery and clinical progress
  • Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesia providers, nursing staff, perfusionists, and other multidisciplinary team members
  • Participate in emergency and on-call cardiac surgery coverage
  • Support education of students, staff, and surgical trainees
  • Contribute to quality improvement and research initiatives within the Cardiac Surgery program

Qualifications
Required
  • Vein harvesting experience is required
  • Current licensure as one of the following:
  • Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Physician Assistant
  • Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA)
  • Current Maryland licensure (or eligibility)
  • BLS certification
  • Minimum 5 years of surgical first assist experience
Preferred
  • Previous experience in a high-volume cardiac surgery program
  • Endoscopic vein harvesting experience
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Commitment to excellence in patient care

Why Join UMMC?
  • Work with nationally recognized cardiothoracic surgeons
  • Practice in a leading academic medical center
  • Be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team
  • Access ongoing professional development and educational opportunities
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
  • Opportunity to participate in research, innovation, and quality improvement initiatives

If you're an experienced surgical first assist looking to advance your career in cardiovascular surgery, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and become part of a team that's redefining cardiac care in Maryland and beyond.
The University of Maryland Medical System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic

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