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Certified First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Talented Medical Solutions

AZ · On-site

$2.2K/wk

Monday through Friday, 7 am to 3 PM and call Monday through Friday, every other weekend certified first assist/surgical tech and BLS /First Assist Scrub Tech. Must be experience in general, podiatry ...

Talented Medical Solutions

AZ · On-site

$2.2K/wk

Monday through Friday, 7 am to 3 PM and call Monday through Friday, every other weekend certified first assist/surgical tech and BLS /First Assist Scrub Tech. Must be experience in general, podiatry ...

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How much do certified first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified first assistant in the United States is $38.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.10 and $43.03 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 are hiring for Certified First Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Certified First Assistant job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Certified First Assistant jobs? The top employers for Certified First Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Certified First Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Certified First Assistant jobs include:
Certified First Assistant jobs near you
Certified First Assistant - Operating Room

Certified First Assistant - Operating Room

PeaceHealth

Ketchikan, AK • On-site

$44.58 - $66.88/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

PeaceHealth rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 174 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 880 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Join Us in Ketchikan, Alaska - Where Work Meets Adventure!
Looking for a career that comes with an incredible lifestyle? Would you like to be part of a mission driven healthcare system dedicated to exceptional medicine and compassionate care? If your answer is yes, consider joining the OR team in a Certified First Assistant role at PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center in Ketchikan, Alaska.
Position details:
  • Role: Full-time Certified First Assist
  • Schedule: Work 8-hour Day shifts, 40 hours per week
  • Hospital: Ketchikan Medical Center is a 25-bed critical access hospital with level IV trauma center
  • Unit: 4 OR Suites: ortho, general, gyn, pediatric dental, ENT, trauma and urology surgeries

Why you'll love Ketchikan: Ketchikan offers more than just a job-it's a chance to live in one of Alaska's most scenic and culturally rich communities. Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World" and the "Gateway to Alaska," Ketchikan is surrounded by lush rainforests, majestic mountains, and the sparkling waters of the Inside Passage.
  • Natural Beauty Everywhere: Imagine waking up to views of the Inside Passage, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting right outside your door.
  • Rich Culture & History: Ketchikan is home to the world's largest collection of totem poles and a thriving arts scene, blending Native heritage with modern creativity.
  • Small-Town Charm with Modern Amenities: On an island witha population of 14,000, Ketchikan offers a peaceful, friendly community, where you'll great dining, local shops, and essential services.
  • Adventure at Your Fingertips: Whether you love boating, exploring trails, or simply enjoying the northern lights, Ketchikan offers experiences you won't find anywhere else.
  • Gateway to Alaska: With regular ferry and flights, you're never too far from the rest of the world-but far enough to enjoy a truly unique lifestyle.

What we offer:
  • An hourly wage range of $44.58 - $66.88.
  • Generous Relocation Assistance
  • Hiring Bonus
  • A comprehensive benefits package
  • Paid Time off with no waiting period
  • A supportive and collaborative team
  • A mission driven healthcare system

What you'll do:
Responsible for practicing in collaboration with and at the direction of the surgeon during the intraoperative phase of the perioperative experience. Collaborates during surgery with the surgeon and the healthcare team in performing a safe operation with optimal outcomes for the patient.
  • Accumulates the appropriate surgical armamentarium.
  • Positions the patient on the operating room table.
  • Preps patient for surgical procedures (shave, catheterize, drape, etc.).
  • Provides exposure for the surgical procedure.
  • Provides hemostasis by suction, cauterization, clamping, suturing or ligation.
  • Administers local anesthesia as directed by the surgeon.
  • Places dressing.
  • Maintains accurate, legible and confidential records. Completes documentation pertinent to patient medical record.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

What you bring:
  • Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology Program
  • Completion of an Accredited Certified First Assist Program and completion of a mentored internship with a minimum of 120 hours of clinical experience demonstrating the ability to function as a CFA
  • A Certified First Assistant (CFA), or In lieu of CFA may consider a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) and/or Surgical Assistant Certified (SA-C)
  • A Basic Life Support Certification for healthcare provider

Preferred:
  • Minimum of 1 year Demonstrated training and minimum of one year of experience and current competence in performing CFA tasks preferred.
  • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

Skills
  • Well organized, detail oriented and self-motivated. (Required)
  • Ability to coordinate activities and work collaboratively with others. (Required)
  • Ability to execute detailed procedures with accuracy and precision. (Required)
  • Basic computer/keyboarding skills including MS Office applications. (Required)
  • Understanding of operating room protocols. (Required)

Working Conditions
Lifting
  • Patient handling no greater than 35 lbs. without the use of assistive equipment and/or devices (NIOSH).
  • Ability to move around area with occasional sitting.
  • Ability to move around area with occasional sitting.
  • Frequent Manual Dexterity and Tactile Sensitivity.
  • Frequent push/ pull/ carry/ stoop/ bend/ reach.
  • Occasional Kneeling.

Environmental Conditions
  • Exposure to biohazard, body fluids and airborne particles.
  • Time spent on site in medical/hospital setting.

Mental/Visual
  • Vision and hearing required within normal limits (glasses, contacts, hearing aids permitted).
  • Ability to communicate and exchange accurate information.

For questions or additional information, please contact Lisa Wishard at Lwishard@peacehealth.org
PeaceHealth is committed to the overall wellbeing of our caregivers: physical, emotional, financial, social, and spiritual. We offer caregivers a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package. Some of the many benefits included in this package are full medical/dental/vision coverage; 403b retirement plan employer base and matching contributions; paid time off; employer-paid life and disability insurance with additional buyup coverage options; tuition and continuing education reimbursement; wellness benefits, and expanded EAP and mental health program.
See how PeaceHealth is committed to Inclusivity, Respect for Diversity and Cultural Humility.
For full consideration of your skills and abilities, please attach a current resume with your application. EEO Affirmative Action Employer/Vets/Disabled in accordance with applicable local, state or federal laws.

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About PeaceHealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, WA, is a not-for-profit Catholic health system employing approximately 16,000 caregivers, a multi-specialty medical group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities in Washington, Oregon, Alaska. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. Today, the legacy of its founding Sisters continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Get a feeling for the Spirit of PeaceHealth through this three-minute video, and visit us on Facebook or LinkedIn! We offer competitive compensation, a robust benefitspackage and a collaborative, Mission-driven work environment! To learn more please visit: jobs.peacehealth.org. Questions? Review our Employment FAQor email Recruitment@peacehealth.org. Please note this email does not accept resumes or applications.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Vancouver, WA, US

Year founded

1890

Social media

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