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First Assist Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

First Assist/Surgical Tech.

Parker, AZ ยท On-site

$50 - $55/hr

First Assistant Scrub Tech. / Surgical Tech. Location: Parker, AZ 85344 Pay: $50-$55/hr. Duration: 13-Week Contract with possible extension Schedule: 7 AM to 3 PM | 40 hours weekly | Monday - Friday ...

RN First Assist

Oro Valley, AZ ยท On-site

$2.0K - $2.3K/wk

RN first assist / OR Schedule = 4/10 hour shifts - 6:30 am - 5:00 pm Call = 2-3 shifts of call from 5:00 pm - 6:30 am each week 1 weekend of call per month that begins at 5:00 pm on Friday evening ...

CT Surgical First Assistant

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$2.2K - $2.4K/wk

CT Surgical First Assistant * Location: Tucson, AZ * Assignment Length: 13 weeks with possible extension * Hours per Week: 40 * Shift Time: 7a-3:30p * Shift Details: nan * Travel Pay Estimate: $2,496 ...

Physician Assistant - Surgical 1st Assist DEPARTMENT OF SURGERY District Medical Group (DMG) is well known as a respected leader in the healthcare industry in the Phoenix area, with a reputation for ...

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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:
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.

Surgical First Assist - Part Time

(unknown company)

Oro Valley, AZ โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Summary
Under the supervision of the RN nurse leader and at the direction of the physician, the surgical first assist (SFA) provides support to the surgeon by assisting with exposure and visualization, hemostasis, wound closure and other technical functions that will help assure a safe surgical procedure. The SFA will help prepare the operating room and assist the RN, surgeon, and anesthesiologist before, during, and after surgical procedures. The SFA performs additional tasks/activities as assigned. The employee may be required to flex/change schedule and work overtime at the discretion of the clinic.
Essential Functions

  • Performs a variety specialty specific activities under the direction of the provider.
  • Assist physician in back office duties including rooming patients, taking vital signs and patient history, and assisting with minor procedures.
  • Triages patients to ensure optimal patient flow and clinic productivity.
  • Maintains work area, exam rooms, supplies, medications and immunizations.
  • Manages all information obtained with strict confidentiality to safeguard patient information from use by unauthorized personnel.
  • Follows safety guidelines for self, patients, visitors and employees.
  • Follows Hospital's infection prevention policies.
  • Demonstrates the ability to be flexible, organized and function appropriately under stressful situations.
  • Communicates with patients, families and other team members to meet the needs of the patient.
  • Demonstrates knowledge Joint Commission and OSHA guidelines and standards.
  • Exercises sound clinical judgment and critical thinking in all aspects of care; including developing creative solutions to problems.
  • Efficiently and effectively performs scrubbing and assisting duties perioperatively to meet the patient's needs, physician's orders, hospital policy and Standards of Practice for Perioperative care.
  • Efficiently and effectively performs first assisting duties thus providing aid in homeostasis, exposure and other technical functions that will help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient and function within the hospital scope of duties.
  • Performs other assigned duties with a positive attitude and a team focus.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

  • Completion of high school or equivalent required
  • Completion of an Allied Health program in a related field with Surgical Assist Program required
  • Completion of a surgical first assistant training program accredited by the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting required
  • Completion of a Certified Orthopedic Technology training program preferred
  • 2-4 years current operating room scrub and/or assisting experience preferred
  • 2-4 years surgical experience in a clinic and/or hospital setting. required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong conflict management skills.
  • Effective working in a matrix organization.
  • Data Analysis
  • Strong understanding of surgical procedures, practices, and technology.
  • Ability to lead, manage, and support a team.
  • Excellent organizational and leadership skills
  • Ability to prioritize and organize tasks according to Unit's needs.

Licenses and Certifications

  • CST - Certified Surgical Technologist required
  • CSA - Certified System Admin preferred
  • CPR - Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation required
  • BCLS - Basic Life Support required
  • Certified Surgical First Assistant required

Oro Valley Hospital (OVH) is a 176-bed hospital that also has a freestanding emergency center, Northwest Transitions Inpatient Rehabilitation, Skilled Nursing Unit, Behavioral Health Unit, and large physician group. With these varied access points, you have your choice of settings in which to work. OVH's culture centers around providing safe, quality care to patients, but also to foster a work environment based on teamwork, commitment to a shared goal and recognizing employees for all they do to care for our patients. Often described as a "family," the staff at OVH take pride in doing the best they can to care for their community. OVH is accredited by The Joint Commission and is an equal opportunity employer: race, gender, disability and Veteran status, and VEVRAA Federal Contractor - priority referral Protected Veterans requested.

Employment Type: PART_TIME