ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Assist Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Talented Medical Solutions

AZ · On-site

$2.2K/wk

First Assist exp required First Assist Scrub Tech for a 13 week assignment. Must be experience in First Assist Scrub Tech for a 13 week assignment. Must be experience in general, podiatry and ...

HiredFirst

CT Surgical First Assistant

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$2.4K/wk

CT Surgical First Assistant Location: Tucson, AZ Specialty: CT Surgical First Assistant Assignment Length: 13 weeks with possible extension Hours per Week: 40 Schedule: Days Shift Time: 7:00 AM - 3 ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsFirst Assist JobsFirst Assist Jobs in Arizona

First Assist information

See Arizona salary details

$8

$17

$26

How much do first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for first assist in Arizona is $17.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills do you need for a first assist?

A first assist role typically requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions precisely. Knowledge of medical procedures, certifications such as CPR or basic life support, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What are some common challenges faced by first assist professionals in the operating room, and how can they be managed?

First Assist professionals often encounter the challenge of adapting quickly to different surgeons' preferences and surgical techniques, as well as managing fast-paced, high-pressure situations. Effective communication and anticipation of the surgical team's needs are essential to ensure smooth procedures. Staying current with advances in surgical technology and participating in ongoing training can help First Assists overcome these challenges and contribute positively to patient outcomes.

What is a first assist?

First Assist professionals, also known as Surgical First Assistants or First Assistants, are healthcare practitioners who work alongside surgeons during operations. Their primary role is to provide direct support in the operating room, such as preparing the surgical site, controlling bleeding, suturing, and handling surgical instruments. First Assists may be registered nurses, physician assistants, or surgical technologists with specialized training. They are essential team members who help ensure procedures run smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Their responsibilities vary depending on the surgical team and type of procedure.

What is the difference between First Assist vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectFirst AssistSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified First Assistant (CFA), surgical assisting certificationsCertified Surgical Technologist (CST), surgical tech certifications
Work EnvironmentAssist surgeons directly during procedures, operating roomsPrepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, assist during surgeries
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

First Assist and Surgical Technologist roles both work in surgical settings, but First Assist professionals directly support surgeons during procedures, requiring advanced certifications. Surgical Technologists prepare the operating room and assist indirectly. While both are vital in surgical teams, First Assist roles involve more direct patient and surgical support, often with higher certification requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first assist?

To thrive as a First Assist, you need a solid background in surgical techniques, anatomy, and sterile procedures, usually supported by certification as a Surgical First Assistant or Physician Assistant. Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room technology, and patient monitoring systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient surgeries and optimal outcomes for patients.

How long does it take to be a first assist?

Becoming a first assist typically requires completing a registered nursing program or a physician assistant program, followed by specialized training or certification in surgical assisting. The process can take approximately 2 to 4 years depending on the educational path and certification requirements.
What cities in Arizona are hiring for First Assist jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most First Assist job openings:
First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assist job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,723 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

First Assist Scrub Tech

Talented Medical Solutions

AZ • On-site

$2.2K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

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 and orthopedics. 
First Assist exp required

First Assist Scrub Tech for a 13 week assignment.  Must be experience in First Assist Scrub Tech for a 13 week assignment.  Must be experience in general, podiatry and orthopedics. 
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Must have graduated from an accredited Surgical Technician Program AND First Assist Program

Requires a current Certification as a Surgical Technician/First Assist. BLS Certification is required.

Requires a knowledge level typically obtained with two (2) years of Surgical Technician experience.
POSITION SUMMARY
Functions as surgical first assistant to the surgeon during the operation working under the direction and supervision of that surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. On occasion the surgical first assistant may have to perform the duties of a surgical technician. All surgical staff assists with room turn over.
CORE FUNCTIONS
1. Interacts professionally with patient and family. Provides patient with explanations and verbal reassurance, as necessary.

2. Adapts procedures to meet individual needs of pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients for treatment. Anticipates needs of surgeon during intraoperative phase.

3. Performs aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.

4. Follows written procedures for steam sterilization; knows responsibilities and the necessity for chemical and biological monitoring. Is fully responsible for care of instruments/equipment during intra/postoperative phase, including cleaning and processing of instruments.

5. Accurately completes operating room counts (instruments, sponges, needles); follows proper procedure in case of incorrect count; reports all discrepancies to circulating nurse and surgeon and/or corrects immediately. Carries out medical/surgical asepsis during treatments/procedures.

6. Regularly collaborates with other members of the nursing team, in order to maintain equipment and supplies for surgical procedures. Sets up, scrubs and prepares for procedures at least 15 minutes prior to scheduled time, unless otherwise directed by Circulating Nurse or Nurse Manager. Prepares room in a timely manner with all anticipated instruments, sutures, supplies and equipment for each individual surgical procedure.

7. Utilizes initiative; strives to maintain steady level of productivity; self-motivated. Organization and management of activities reflects due consideration for the needs of the department.

8. Always maintains an orderly and sterile instrument table for the purpose of efficiency; follows department standard set-up.

9. Applying sutures, staples, clips, and drainage systems and clamping, or cauterizing blood vessels to control bleeding.

10. Covering patients with surgical drapes to ensure and maintain a sterile operating field, removing patients' body hair, and disinfecting the incision site.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENT FACTORS

DP - Typical Direct Patient Care environment:
Able to stand, walk, bend, squat, reach, and stretch frequently.
Possess physical agility and adequate reaction time to respond quickly and appropriately to unexpected patient care needs.
Needs adequate hearing and visual acuity, including adequate color vision.
Requires fine motor skills, adequate eye-hand coordination, and ability to grasp and handle objects.
Able to use proper body mechanics to assist patients in ambulating, transferring in and out of bed, chair or wheelchair.
May be required to lift up to 50 pounds.
Must use standard precautions due to threat of exposure to blood and bodily fluids.
Needs ability to communicate effectively through reading, writing, and speaking in person or on telephone.
May require periodic use of personal computer.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Must have graduated from an accredited Surgical Technician Program AND First Assist Program

Requires a current Certification as a Surgical Technician/First Assist. BLS Certification is required.

Requires a knowledge level typically obtained with two (2) years of Surgical Technician experience.
Relates throughout the interview process the experience, training and education needed to perform the job.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Additional related education and/or experience preferred.