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Certified First Assistant Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Reno Orthopedic Center

Surgical First Assist

Reno, NV · On-site

Certifications/Education * Active certification of Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA) through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting; * Knowledge of: * Proper patient ...

Reno Orthopedic Center

Surgical First Assist

Reno, NV · On-site

Certifications/Education * Active certification of Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA) through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting; * Knowledge of: * Proper patient ...

Reno Orthopedic Center

Surgical First Assist

Reno, NV · On-site

Certifications/Education * Active certification of Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA) through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting; * Knowledge of: * Proper patient ...

UHS

RN - FIRST ASSIST (CERT), Per Diem L&D

Reno, NV · On-site

... First Assist opportunity is per diem and offers a convenient schedule. We are looking for a dynamic ... The Certified RNFA does not concurrently function as the Scrub Nurse. Job Duties/Responsibilities:

UHS

RN - FIRST ASSIST (CERT), Per Diem L&D

Reno, NV · On-site

$80/hr

... First Assist opportunity is per diem and offers a convenient schedule. We are looking for a dynamic ... The Certified RNFA does not concurrently function as the Scrub Nurse. Job Duties/Responsibilities:

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All JobsCertified First JobsCertified First Assistant JobsCertified First Assistant Jobs in Reno, NV

Certified First Assistant information

See Reno, NV salary details

$30

$38

$45

How much do certified first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified first assistant in Reno, NV is $38.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.05 and $42.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a Csfa make?

A Certified First Assistant (CFA) typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and healthcare facility. In Minnesota, salaries tend to be within this range, with additional compensation for certifications and specialized skills.

Is it hard to become a CST?

Becoming a Certified First Assistant (CFA) typically requires completing specialized training, gaining experience in surgical assisting, and passing a certification exam. The process can take several months to years depending on prior healthcare experience and educational background, and it involves developing skills in surgical procedures and patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Certified First Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified First Assistant, you need a solid background in surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques, usually supported by certification such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent. Competence with surgical instruments, patient monitoring systems, and electronic health records is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure patient safety, effective teamwork, and optimal surgical outcomes.

What Is a Certified First Assistant?

As a certified first assistant (CFA), also called a certified surgical first assistant (CSFA), your primary responsibilities are assisting the surgeon and nurses in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative procedures. Your job duties include prepping patients, dressing wounds, monitoring electronic medical equipment, performing minor surgical procedures, and providing care to patients before, during, and after procedures. You need experience as a surgical technician in addition to great communication skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to perform in high-pressure situations. You can find CSFA jobs in hospitals, private practices, outpatient surgery centers, and other health care settings with a surgical team.

What does a certified first assistant do?

A certified first assistant supports surgeons during medical procedures by providing hands-on assistance, such as handling tissues, suturing, and managing surgical instruments. They work in operating rooms, often requiring certification and knowledge of sterile techniques and surgical protocols.

What is a Certified First Assistant?

A Certified First Assistant (CFA), also known as a Surgical First Assistant, is a highly trained healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgical procedures. They play a vital role in ensuring surgeries run smoothly by providing direct support, such as controlling bleeding, suturing incisions, and helping maintain a sterile environment. CFAs work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other operating room staff to enhance patient outcomes and safety. Certification typically requires specialized education, hands-on experience, and passing a national examination.

How much does a surgical 1st assistant make?

A certified first assistant in surgery typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and healthcare setting. They assist surgeons during procedures, often requiring certification and specialized training, which can influence salary levels.

What are some common challenges faced by Certified First Assistants during surgical procedures?

Certified First Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing surgical situations, maintaining clear communication with the surgical team, and anticipating the needs of the surgeon. They must remain highly focused for extended periods and be prepared to respond quickly to unexpected complications. Collaboration, technical proficiency, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Certified First Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectCertified First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified First Assistant (CFA) certification, often requires RN or physician assistant licensureCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification, usually requires completing a surgical tech program
Work EnvironmentAssist surgeons directly during surgeries, mainly in hospitals and surgical centersPrepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, and assist during surgeries
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, surgical clinics, outpatient surgery centersHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

The Certified First Assistant works closely with surgeons during procedures, providing direct assistance, while Surgical Technologists prepare the operating room and support the surgical team. Both roles are vital in surgical settings but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

More about Certified First Assistant jobs
What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Certified First Assistant jobs? Cities near Reno, NV with the most Certified First Assistant job openings:
Certified First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified First Assistant job openings in Reno, NV as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 78% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,950 per year, or $38.9 per hour.
Surgical First Assist

Surgical First Assist

Reno Orthopedic Center

Reno, NV • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Do you have a fascination with surgery? Love the hustle and bustle of the operating room? Love problem solving and knowing advanced technical skills? Join ROC as a First Assist! We'd love to show you what it's like to work here. If selected for an interview, you'll see the surgery center and our people in action. This position will remain posted until filled.
You would be in the operating room as the surgeons are operating, providing help as needed. We want our patients to get back to moving the way they want to be moving, and the surgery is a major part of that! You would play a role in improving their lives each day. Develop strong relationships with our surgeons and medical providers and find your people here at ROC.
ROC is expanding with two more operating suites opening in 2025. Join our team to be part of the growth and excitement!
What would you do as a First Assist?
You can expect to regularly:
  • Set up surgical instruments, supplies and equipment according to the procedure and surgeon preferences.
  • Prepare the surgical suite for operation, including supporting the surgeon with instruments and supplies, assist with positioning the patient for surgery properly and turning over the rooms after the patient returns to recovery.
  • Work with the surgeon to help as needed, including preparing surgical grafts, performing closure of incisions, and applying various wound dressings or splints.
  • Count sponges, needles and instruments before and after surgery.

Requirements
  • Certifications/Education
    • Active certification of Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA) through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting;
  • Knowledge of:
    • Proper patient positioning and safety;
    • Surgical procedures and required equipment/instruments;
  • Experience:
    • Communicating professionally with all levels of staff and providers.

Preferred Qualifications - How can you set yourself apart from other applicants? (if app.)
  • Related experience.

Travel: May require travel to and from other locations based on manager and surgeon discretion.
#IH
Benefits
Check out our home page by clicking on "View all jobs" to explore the many benefits ROC provides to employees, from medical insurance to paid time off and beyond! This position is eligible for full-time benefits and would work a 40-hour per week schedule.

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