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Certified Surgical First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Medworks

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Seattle, WA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

About the Role Medworks is seeking a Certified Surgical First Assistant to support surgical procedures across hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers in the Seattle, WA area. This is a mobile role ...

HiredFirst

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.1K - $2.3K/wk

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) | Portland, OR Join a leading healthcare organization committed to delivering exceptional surgical care. Adventist Health Portland is seeking a skilled and ...

Methodist Hospital

Surgical First Assist

Cibolo, TX · On-site

Surgical First Assistant certification * SA-C - Surgical Assistant, Certified through the American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) * CSA - Certified Surgical Assistant through the National ...

Methodist Hospital

Surgical First Assist

Schertz, TX · On-site

Surgical First Assistant certification * SA-C - Surgical Assistant, Certified through the American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) * CSA - Certified Surgical Assistant through the National ...

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How much do certified surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified surgical first assistant in the United States is $27.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a surgical 1st assistant make?

A certified surgical first assistant typically earns between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and work setting. They assist surgeons during procedures, often requiring certification and specialized training, and may work full-time or on a per-case basis.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for specialized healthcare services, such as urban areas with large hospitals and medical centers. States or cities with a higher volume of complex surgeries and advanced medical facilities often offer increased compensation for experienced assistants with certifications and strong skills. Salary variations are also influenced by hospital size, specialty, and the assistant's level of experience.

What does a certified surgical first assistant do?

A certified surgical first assistant supports surgeons during operative procedures by providing exposure, handling tissues, and assisting with suturing and other tasks. They work in operating rooms, often requiring certification and knowledge of surgical instruments and sterile techniques.

Is it hard to become a CST?

Becoming a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) requires completing a surgical assisting program, gaining hands-on experience, and passing a certification exam. The process involves dedication, technical skills, and knowledge of surgical procedures, making it a challenging but achievable career path for those committed to healthcare and surgery. Certification standards ensure that assistants are well-prepared for the demands of the role.

What are Certified Surgical First Assistants?

Certified Surgical First Assistants (CSFAs) are highly trained healthcare professionals who work alongside surgeons during surgical procedures. Their primary role is to provide direct assistance in the operating room, which can include tasks such as suturing incisions, controlling bleeding, and ensuring the operative field remains clear. CSFAs have advanced knowledge of surgical techniques and sterile procedures, and they help optimize patient outcomes by supporting the surgical team. They are required to obtain certification through accredited programs and by passing a national examination. CSFAs often work in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare settings.

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

To thrive as a Certified Surgical First Assistant, you need a comprehensive understanding of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree and certification (such as CSFA or CSA). Proficiency with surgical instruments, operating room protocols, and electronic documentation systems is crucial. Strong attention to detail, communication, and teamwork skills set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are vital for ensuring patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and positive outcomes during operative procedures.

What are some common challenges Certified Surgical First Assistants face during surgical procedures, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Certified Surgical First Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing situations in the operating room, maintaining clear communication with the surgical team, and managing high-pressure or unexpected complications. Successfully overcoming these challenges requires strong situational awareness, excellent teamwork skills, and a deep understanding of surgical protocols. Proactively anticipating the surgeon's needs and staying calm under pressure are key strategies that help CSFAs support positive patient outcomes and maintain a smooth workflow during procedures.

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

AspectCertified Surgical First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CSFA), specialized trainingPost-secondary education, certification (e.g., CST)
Work EnvironmentAssist surgeons directly during surgeriesPrepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical facilities

The Certified Surgical First Assistant and Surgical Technologist roles both support surgical teams but differ in responsibilities. The CSFA actively assists during surgeries, requiring advanced certification, while Surgical Technologists prepare the operating room and assist indirectly. Both roles are vital in surgical settings, with CSFAs having more direct patient contact and technical duties.

More about Certified Surgical First Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Certified Surgical First Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Certified Surgical First Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Certified Surgical First Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Certified Surgical First Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Certified Surgical First Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Certified Surgical First Assistant jobs are:
Certified Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Surgical First Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,122 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Certified Surgical First Assistant / CSFA

Certified Surgical First Assistant / CSFA

Lovelace Health System

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Lovelace Health System rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview

Join our team as a day shift, full-time, Labor and Delivery, Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) in Albuquerque, NM. 

Why Join Us? 

Thrive in a People-First Environment and Make Healthcare Better  

  • Thrive: We empower our team with career growth opportunities, tuition assistance, and resources that support your wellness, education, and financial well-being.  
  • People-First: We prioritize your well-being with paid time off, comprehensive health benefits, and a supportive, inclusive culture where you are valued and cared for.  
  • Make Healthcare Better: We use advanced technology to support our team and enhance patient care.  

Get to Know Your Team: 

  • Lovelace Women’s Hospital has 173 licensed beds, including a 53-bed advanced neonatal intensive care unit, family care unit, an award-winning breast care center, and the first robotic surgery program in the state, recognized as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery by Surgical Review Corporation.

Learn About a Day In the Life of a Surgical Tech:


Responsibilities
  • Provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon be more efficient in the operating room with optimal results for the patient.
  • In addition to intraoperative duties, the Surgical First Assistant also performs preoperative and postoperative duties to better facilitate efficiency in the operating room (pre-op setup and post-op breakdown of the operating room).
  • Demonstrates expert knowledge of sterile technique, instrumentation, equipment, and sterile field setup, including sterilization methods and verification.
  • The Surgical First Assistant performs these functions during the operation under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. Certification from a recognized First Assistant Program is required. 

Qualifications

Job Requirements: 

  • Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology program and completion of a recognized  Surgical First Assistant program.
  • Anatomy and Physiology, sterile technique, medical terminology, instrumentation, and medical equipment knowledge. 
  • Competencies: Sterilization techniques; Operating Room instruments and supplies; medical terminology; Excellent Critical thinking skills.
  • Two years OR Scrub Technician experience.
  • Certified Surgical Technician, Certified Surgical First Assistant Certification (CSFA).
  • BLS certification must be obtained within 14 days of hire or transfer into the role and prior to providing direct patient care.
Qualifications:

Job Requirements: 

  • Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology program and completion of a recognized  Surgical First Assistant program.
  • Anatomy and Physiology, sterile technique, medical terminology, instrumentation, and medical equipment knowledge. 
  • Competencies: Sterilization techniques; Operating Room instruments and supplies; medical terminology; Excellent Critical thinking skills.
  • Two years OR Scrub Technician experience.
  • Certified Surgical Technician, Certified Surgical First Assistant Certification (CSFA).
  • BLS certification must be obtained within 14 days of hire or transfer into the role and prior to providing direct patient care.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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