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Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Wisconsin

LifeCenter Northwest

WI · On-site

$91 - $149/hr

Surgical first assist, including sharp dissection * Vascular dissection for cannulation of kidneys placed on perfusion devices * Renal Pulsatile perfusion * How to independently recover research ...

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Ascension

Surgical First Assistant

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$33.06/hr

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) obtained prior to hire date or job transfer date. * Surgical Assistant credentialed from ...

Ascension

Surgical First Assistant

Brookfield, WI

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Ascension

Surgical First Assistant

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) obtained prior to hire date or job transfer date. * Surgical Assistant credentialed from ...

Ascension

Surgical First Assistant

Brookfield, WI · On-site

$33.06/hr

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Ascension

Surgical First Assistant

Franklin, WI · On-site

$33.06/hr

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Ascension

Surgical First Assistant

Racine, WI

$33.06/hr

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Ascension

Surgical First Assistant

Franklin, WI

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Ascension

Surgical First Assistant

Racine, WI

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

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All JobsCardiothoracic Surgical First JobsCardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant JobsCardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Wisconsin

Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant information

See Wisconsin salary details

$64.6K

$228.2K

$403.7K

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for cardiothoracic surgical first assistant in Wisconsin is $228,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $176,100.00 and $272,500.00 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

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

Cities in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $228,212 per year, or $109.7 per hour.

Physician Assistant - PA - Cardiothoracic Surgery

SSM Health

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

SSM Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 552 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

499th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

SSM Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer:Community Description:About SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - Madison:

SSM Health-Dean Medical Group, a 500-physician multi-specialty group, is actively recruiting a Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant to support our established team at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital, and ACS Level II Trauma Center, in Madison, Wisconsin.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Certified Physician Assistant
  • Surgical First Assist experience a must
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery practice experience preferred; recent graduates with dedicated rotations in cardiothoracic surgery including first assisting will be reviewed
  • ACLS and BLS certifications
  • Wisconsin Physician Assistant License

Responsibilities:

  • Assisting in the operating room (including endoscopic and open vein and radial artery harvesting).
  • Patient care on the Cardiothoracic Surgery in-patient unit.
  • Night call on weeknights and weekends (anticipated 1 in 6 for each) for floor patients and for the OR.
  • For weekends, rounds and then call from home for the OR.
  • Rare outpatient clinic care.
  • Hours vary between 7am-5pm, five (5) days a week with rotating weekend hours.
  • Opportunity to work independently alongside the cardiothoracic surgeons.
  • Hospital privileges at SSM Health St. Mary's Madison.

SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital Cardiothoracic Surgery is one of the largest heart surgery programs in Wisconsin.  Its robotic surgery capabilities are unmatched in the region, positioning us as one of only a handful of centers nationwide with the ability to offer robotic cardiac as well as thoracic surgery. We perform the whole gamut of adult cardiac and thoracic surgery including CABG, Valve surgery, Aortic aneurysms and dissections, pulmonary resections and decortications. We do not perform ventricular assist devices. Team averages around 600 cardiac and 50-75 thoracic (pulmonary only) patient procedures annually as well as 150 TAVR.

Located on SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - Madison's campus, SSM Health Outpatient Center offers easy access to a variety of medical services.

At SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital – Madison, our goal is to serve the community and play an active role in it. For the third consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report recognized SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - Madison as one of the best hospitals in Wisconsin (2024-2025). Forbes has also named SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - Madison as one of their 2026 Top Hospitals.

Serving South Central Wisconsin since 1912, SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - Madison is a 440-bed hospital that offers a full range of inpatient and outpatient treatment and diagnostic services. St. Mary's Hospital is an American College of Surgeons-verified Level II Trauma Center, a Joint Commission-certified Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center, and has a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Madison, the capital of Wisconsin, is a vibrant city known for its blend of natural beauty and vibrant urban life. Nestled between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, the city is home to the University of Wisconsin–Madison and enjoys a lively atmosphere fueled by innovation, education, and cultural diversity. Madison boasts an award-winning food scene, expansive beautiful park systems, and a commitment to sustainability that enhances the quality of life. Whether you're savoring local flavors, enjoying live music, or embracing the city's commitment to sustainability, you'll find a welcoming and dynamic environment that feels like home.

SSM Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SSM Health provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. To view all of our current provider career opportunities, visit joinssmhealth.com.


For the clinicians at SSM Health, being here means being part of a heartful heritage of healing. It?s an opportunity to further a caring legacy while advancing medicine with an esteemed organization that encourages collaboration, empowers innovation, supports growth, and seeks to elevate care for everyone we serve.

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