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Certified First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

First Assist - OR

Parker, 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 ...

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 ...

First Assist - OR

Parker, 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 ...

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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Certified First Assistant information

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$45

How much do certified first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 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.

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 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.

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 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.

How long does it take to become a certified first assistant?

Becoming a certified first assistant typically requires completing a specialized training program that lasts several months, followed by gaining hands-on experience in surgical assisting. Certification through organizations like the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) or the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) often involves passing an exam after training and experience requirements are met.

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:

What are popular job titles related to Certified First Assistant jobs?

For Certified First Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Certified First Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,069 per year, or $39 per hour.

Surgical Allied Careers - Certified First Assistant Tech

Amarillo, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Certified First Assistant Tech

Job Type: Travel

Profession: Surgical Allied Careers

Specialty: Certified First Assistant

Shift Details: 4x10 Days

Job Order Details:

Start Date: 09/14/2026

End Date: 12/14/2026

Duration: 13 Week(s)

Client Details:

City: Amarillo

State: TX