ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TLC NURSING SERVICES

Cardiothoracic

Kissimmee, FL

... • Surgical First Assist experience required • Endoscopic Vein Harvest (EVH) experience is ... cardiothoracic surgeons and 5 APPs • Minimum call of 1:4, which includes one weekend per month ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCardiothoracic Surgical First JobsCardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant Jobs

Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant information

See salary details

$64K

$226.1K

$400K

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

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for cardiothoracic surgical first assistant in the United States is $226,097.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $174,500.00 and $270,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
More about Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs are:
Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Nurse Practitioner- CV/CT Surgery - First Assist

Nurse Practitioner- CV/CT Surgery - First Assist

Baylor Scott & White Health

Plano, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Baylor Scott & White Health rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 739 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

253rd of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

CV/CT Surgery First Assist Nurse Practitioner (RNFA Required)

Baylor Scott & White Health - The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano

Baylor Scott & White Health is seeking an experienced Nurse Practitioner (NP) to join our Cardiovascular/Cardiothoracic Surgery team as a First Assist at The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano, with occasional floating to our Heart Hospitals in Dallas and Frisco.

Position Overview

The CV/CT Surgery First Assist Nurse Practitioner will work closely with a highly collaborative surgical team, providing perioperative care and first-assist support for cardiovascular and cardiothoracic surgical procedures. This role offers a predictable weekday schedule with structured call coverage in a well-established heart program.

Schedule

  • Monday-Friday, typically 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM

  • Schedule may vary when assigned to call

Call Requirements

  • Rotating weekday call (approximately once per week)

  • Rotating weekend call (Friday-Sunday) every 4th or 5th weekend

Practice Setting

  • Primary location: The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano

  • Occasional floating to Dallas and Frisco Heart Hospitals

Case Volume

  • 1-2 cardiovascular surgery cases per day, depending on call coverage

Team Structure

  • 14 Surgeons

  • 12 Advanced Practice Providers (APPs)

  • Established, collaborative CV surgery service

Key Responsibilities

  • First assist in cardiovascular and cardiothoracic surgical procedures

  • Preoperative and postoperative patient management

  • Participate in on-call coverage for the CV surgery service

  • Collaborate with surgeons, APPs, nursing staff, and multidisciplinary teams

  • Deliver high-quality, patient-centered surgical care

Experience and Qualifications

  • Graduate of an accredited Nurse Practitioner program

  • Active or eligible Texas RN and APRN license

  • Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) required

  • Cardiovascular/Cardiothoracic surgical experience strongly preferred

  • Will consider candidates with 2+ years of general surgery or other surgical specialty experience

  • Demonstrated first-assist and perioperative skill set

  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced surgical environment while contributing to a team-based culture

Why Baylor Scott & White Health

  • Nationally recognized heart and vascular program

  • Supportive, team-oriented culture

  • Predictable weekday schedule with structured call rotation

  • Opportunity to practice in a premier Heart Hospital setting

BENEFITS

Our benefits are designed to help you live well no matter where you are on your journey. For full details on coverage and eligibility, visit the Baylor Scott & White Benefits Hub to explore our offerings, which may include: 

  • Immediate eligibility for health and welfare benefits
  • 401(k) savings plan with dollar-for-dollar match up to 5%
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • PTO accrual beginning Day 1

Note: Benefits may vary based upon position type and/or level

Belonging Statement

We believe that all people should feel welcomed, valued, and supported. 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • EDUCATION - Grad of an Accredited Program
  • EXPERIENCE - More than 1 Year of Experience
  • CERTIFICATION/LICENSE/REGISTRATION -

       Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Registered Nurse (RN)
RN-First Assist (RNFA)
Basic Life Support (BLS): BLS or BLS within 30 days of hire or transfer.
 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Baylor Scott & White Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply