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Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Indiana

Assured Nursing

Travel CVOR First Assist

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$1.8K - $2.4K/wk

Surgical First Assistant,08:00:00-18:00:00 Benefits * Weekly pay * Holiday Pay * 401k retirement plan * Referral bonus * Medical benefits * Dental benefits * Vision benefits

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All JobsCardiothoracic Surgical First JobsCardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant JobsCardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Indiana

Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant information

See Indiana salary details

$60.9K

$215.1K

$380.6K

How much do cardiothoracic surgical first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for cardiothoracic surgical first assistant in Indiana is $215,146.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $166,000.00 and $256,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cardiothoracic surgical first assistant?

A Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant is a highly trained healthcare professional who works closely with surgeons during cardiothoracic procedures, such as heart and lung surgeries. Their primary role is to assist the surgeon by providing direct support in the operating room, including tasks like tissue handling, suturing, controlling bleeding, and ensuring the sterile field is maintained. They help improve surgical outcomes and efficiency, acting as an essential member of the surgical team. Typically, they have advanced training in surgical techniques and may come from backgrounds like physician assisting, nursing, or surgical technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cardiothoracic surgical first assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant, you need in-depth knowledge of surgical procedures, human anatomy, and sterile techniques, typically supported by formal surgical assistant training and certification such as CSFA or CSA. Proficiency in using surgical instruments, operating room technologies, and patient monitoring systems is essential. Excellent attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure patient safety, support seamless surgical procedures, and contribute to successful outcomes in high-stakes environments.

What are some common challenges faced by cardiothoracic surgical first assistants during complex procedures?

Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected complications during surgery, maintaining clear communication with the surgical team in high-pressure situations, and adapting quickly to changes in the operative plan. They must also stay focused for long hours, especially during intricate procedures, and ensure all surgical instruments and equipment are handled efficiently. Developing strong collaboration skills and staying up-to-date with the latest surgical techniques are essential for overcoming these challenges and contributing effectively to successful patient outcomes.

What is the difference between Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant vs Cardiovascular Technologist?

AspectCardiothoracic Surgical First AssistantCardiovascular Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical Assistant, CPR, specialized trainingCertification (RCVT), associate degree or post-secondary training
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms during surgeries, hospitalsCardiac catheterization labs, hospitals, clinics
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, cardiac surgery teamsHospitals, diagnostic labs, cardiology clinics

The main difference is that Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistants actively participate in surgeries, assisting surgeons during procedures, while Cardiovascular Technologists primarily operate diagnostic equipment and assist in testing. Both roles require specialized training, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

How to become a cardiothoracic surgical first assistant?

To become a cardiothoracic surgical first assistant, one typically needs to complete a relevant healthcare degree such as a surgical technology, nursing, or physician assistant program, followed by specialized training or certification in cardiothoracic surgery assistance. Gaining experience in surgical settings and obtaining certification from organizations like the American Board of Surgical Assistants can enhance job prospects.

Where do cardiothoracic surgical first assistants make the most money?

Cardiothoracic surgical first assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high volume of specialized cardiac and thoracic surgeries, such as large metropolitan hospitals or academic medical centers. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in urban or well-funded healthcare systems can also influence earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs in Indiana?

For Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Locum Tenens, 8% As Needed, 72% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $215,146 per year, or $103.4 per hour.

Certified Surgical First Assistant 1.0 Days

Franciscan Health

Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

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

Franciscan Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 272 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

498th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Franciscan Health Lafayette East Campus
1701 S Creasy Ln Lafayette, Indiana 47905
Universal Precautions Guidelines. Standards of Nursing Care. If these terms mean something to you, keep reading because we need a first assistant certified surgical technician able to meet those standards. This assistant is on call for shifts and on-call for duties ranging from first assist to primary scrub. It requires thinking on your feet and handling the operating room with diligence and care, ultimately providing the best quality operative care to the patient.
WHO WE ARE
Franciscan Health is a leading healthcare organization dedicated to providing exceptional patient care and promoting health and wellness in our community. Our mission is to ensure that every patient receives the highest quality of care through innovation, compassion, and excellence. With 11 ministries and access points across Indiana, Franciscan Health is one of the largest Catholic health care systems in the Midwest. Franciscan Health takes pride in hiring coworkers who provide compassionate, comprehensive care for our patients and the communities we serve.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
  • 10 Operating Rooms with a case mix of ortho/spine, vascular/open heart, laparoscopies, robotic hysterectomies, and spinal fusion cases etc.
  • Position is part of the open-heart team and also scrubs in on other procedures that come into the unit as needed.
  • Procedures Monday - Friday, plus weeknight / weekend call rotation
  • Maintain correct count of sponges, sharps, and instruments with circulating nurse according to established procedure.
  • Assist in maintenance and organization of instruments and equipment by proper care, cleaning, utilization, assembly, and sterilization.
  • Collaborate and actively participate with the circulator in planning and preparations based upon needs of patient, surgical procedure, and physician preference.
  • Demonstrate technical competency in performance of duties/skills necessary to first assist surgeon and anticipate needs in routine, complex, specialty, and emergency procedures.
  • Provide visualization of the operative site.
  • Practice all duties in accordance with Universal Precautions Administrative Guideline.

Qualifications
  • Required High School Diploma/GED
  • Basic Life Support Program (BLS) - American Heart Association
  • Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) - National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)

TRAVEL IS REQUIRED:
Never or Rarely
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
It is the policy of Franciscan Alliance to provide equal employment to its employees and qualified applicants for employment as otherwise required by an applicable local, state or Federal law.
Franciscan Alliance reserves a Right of Conscience objection in the event local, state or Federal ordinances that violate its values and the free exercise of its religious rights.
Franciscan Alliance is committed to equal employment opportunity.
Franciscan provides eligible employees with comprehensive benefit offerings. Find an overview on the benefit section of our career site, jobs.franciscanhealth.org.

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