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First Assist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

UCHealth

Surgical First Assistant

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) by NBSTSA; Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) by NSAA; Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C) by ABSA. State Surgical Assistant or Surgical Technologist ...

UCHealth

Surgical First Assistant

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) by NBSTSA; Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) by NSAA; Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C) by ABSA. State Surgical Assistant or Surgical Technologist ...

UCHealth

Surgical First Assistant

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

MHN First Assist Work Schedule: PRN Shift: Days Pay: $38.72 - $58.08 / hour. Pay is dependent on applicant's relevant experience This position is an onsite role and does not offer a hybrid or remote ...

UCHealth

Surgical First Assistant

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

MHN First Assist Work Schedule: PRN Shift: Days Pay: $38.72 - $58.08 / hour. Pay is dependent on applicant's relevant experience This position is an onsite role and does not offer a hybrid or remote ...

UCHealth

Surgical First Assistant

Steamboat Springs, CO · On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

Certified Surgical First Assistant * Surgical Assistant * Surgical Tech * Basic Life Support * Surgical Assistant Certified * Certified Surgical Assisant * High School diploma or GED. Surgical ...

UCHealth

Surgical First Assistant

Steamboat Springs, CO · On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

Certified Surgical First Assistant * Surgical Assistant * Surgical Tech * Basic Life Support * Surgical Assistant Certified * Certified Surgical Assisant * High School diploma or GED. Surgical ...

UCHealth

Surgical First Assistant

Highlands Ranch, CO · On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) by NBSTSA; Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) by NSAA; Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C) by ABSA. State Surgical Assistant or Surgical Technologist ...

UCHealth

Surgical First Assistant

Highlands Ranch, CO · On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) by NBSTSA; Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) by NSAA; Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C) by ABSA. State Surgical Assistant or Surgical Technologist ...

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First Assist information

See Colorado salary details

$9

$19

$30

How much do first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for first assist in Colorado is $19.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $22.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How do you become a certified first assist?

To become a certified first assist, you typically need to complete a specialized training program such as the Certified First Assist (CFA) course offered by the American College of Surgeons, which includes classroom instruction and clinical practice. Candidates usually must be a licensed healthcare professional, such as a registered nurse or surgical technologist, and meet specific experience requirements before applying for certification.

What does a first assistant do?

A first assistant, often in surgical settings, provides support to the lead surgeon by handling instruments, maintaining a sterile environment, and assisting with procedures. They must have surgical training or certification and work closely with the surgical team to ensure smooth operations.

What are First Assist professionals?

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, and why are they important?

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 much does a first assist make?

A first assist in healthcare typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the healthcare setting. Certification and specialized skills can also influence salary levels.
What cities in Colorado are hiring for First Assist jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most First Assist job openings:
First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assist job openings in Colorado 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 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,437 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Surgical First Assistant

Surgical First Assistant

UCHealth

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

UCHealth (Colorado) rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 447 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 880 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description
Location: UCHealth UCHlth Poudre Valley Hospital, US:CO:Fort Collins
Department: PVH Operating Room
FTE: PRN, 0.0, 0.00 hours per pay period (2 weeks)
Shift: Flex
Pay: $38.72 - $58.08 / hour. Pay is dependent on applicant's relevant experience
Minimum Requirements:
  • High School diploma or GED. Surgical Technologist program.
  • Certified as a one of the following: Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) by NBSTSA; Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) by NSAA; Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C) by ABSA. State Surgical Assistant or Surgical Technologist registration. Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider.
  • None Required.
  • Credentials:
    • Essential:
      • Certified Surgical First Assistant
      • Surgical Assistant
      • Surgical Tech
      • Basic Life Support
      • Surgical Assistant Certified
      • Certified Surgical Assisant

At UCHealth, We Improve Lives
Picture yourself on a dynamic team improving lives in the following way(s):
  • Provides top of scope practice in direct patient care utilizing the nursing process
  • Values a multidisciplinary team approach to achieve exceptional outcomes
  • Prioritizes wellness, a patient perspective and evidence-based practice
  • Models proficiency through precepting those new to healthcare and/or UCHealth
  • Welcomes new knowledge in a fast paced, innovative clinical environment
  • Contributes to secure safety and quality at the point of care

Perioperative:
  • Direct care includes practice in Perioperative, PACU (Post Anesthesia Care Unit) or Operating Room levels of care
  • AORN and ABPANC core curriculum and certifications standards are included in evidence-based care models
  • Clinical Educators support and guide individualized specialty education and training for competency validation throughout clinical orientation.

We improve lives. In big ways through learning, healing, and discovery. In small, personal ways through human connection. But in all ways, we improve lives.
UCHealth invests in its Workforce.
UCHealth offers a Three Year Incentive Bonus to recognize employee's contributions to our success in quality, patient experience, organizational growth, financial goals, and tenure with UCHealth. The bonus accumulates annually each October and is paid out in October following completion of three years' employment.
UCHealth offers their employees a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package (benefit eligibility is based off of FTE status):
  • Medical, dental and vision coverage including coverage for eligible dependents
  • 403(b) with employer matching contributions
  • Time away from work: paid time off (PTO), paid family and medical leave (inclusive of Colorado FAMLI), leaves of absence; start your employment at UCHealth with PTO in your bank
  • Employer-paid basic life and accidental death and dismemberment coverage with buy-up coverage options
  • Employer paid short term disability and long-term disability with buy-up coverage options
  • Wellness benefits
  • Full suite of voluntary benefits such as flexible spending accounts for health care and dependent care, health savings accounts (available with HD/HSA medical plan only), identity theft protection, pet insurance, and employee discount programs
  • Education benefits for employees, including the opportunity to be eligible for 100% of tuition, books and fees paid for by UCHealth for specific educational degrees. Other programs may qualify for up to $5,250 pre-paid by UCHealth or in the form of tuition reimbursement each calendar year

Loan Repayment:
  • UCHealth is a qualifying employer for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program! UCHealth provides employees with free assistance navigating the PSLF program to submit their federal student loans for forgiveness through Savi.

UCHealth always welcomes talent. This position will be open for a minimum of three days and until a top applicant is identified.
UCHealth recognizes and appreciates the rich array of talents and perspectives that equal employment and diversity can offer our institution. As an equal opportunity employer, UCHealth is committed to making all employment decisions based on valid requirements. No applicant shall be discriminated against in any terms, conditions or privileges of employment or otherwise be discriminated against because of the individual's race, color, national origin, language, culture, ethnicity, age, religion, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender, veteran status, socioeconomic status, or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state, or local law. UCHealth does not discriminate against any qualified applicant with a disability as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act and will make reasonable accommodations, when they do not impose an undue hardship on the organization.
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