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First Assist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Invited

1st Assistant Superintendent

Carbondale, CO

Superintendent First Assistant at Golf & Country Club in Carbondale, CO | Aspen Glen Club Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the success ...

ClubCorp

1st Assistant Superintendent

Carbondale, CO · On-site

$62K - $67K/yr

Superintendent First Assistant at Golf & Country Club in Carbondale, CO | Aspen Glen Club Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the success ...

Vivian Health

RN First Assistant in Aurora, CO

Aurora, CO · On-site

$74K - $122K/yr

Registered Nurse First Assistant Hospitals on Incredible Health are actively hiring and accepting applications in the Denver, CO area for the following position: Registered Nurse First Assistant.

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All JobsFirst Assist JobsFirst Assist Jobs in Colorado

First Assist information

See Colorado salary details

$9

$19

$30

How much do first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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.
Registered Nurse First Assistant

Registered Nurse First Assistant

Incredible Health

Denver, CO • On-site

$74K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Hospitals on Incredible Health are actively hiring and accepting applications in the Denver, CO area for the following position: Registered Nurse First Assistant.
  • Shift(s) available: day shift
  • Job types available: full time
  • Employer features: Best Places to Work recognition, Community hospital, Cross training, Health Insurance, Level 2 trauma center, Level 3 trauma center, Life Insurance, Magnet recognized, Nurse self-care program , Offers sign on bonus, PTO, Retirement Plan
Qualifications:
  • Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing
  • Completion of an accredited RNFA program, including both didactic and clinical components
  • Minimum of 2 years of operating room experience with surgical scrub and/or circulating duties
  • Certification as a Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA) from a recognized body preferred
  • Current Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification
Responsibilities:
  • Assist the surgeon in the operating room by providing exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions according to the surgeon's directives
  • Conduct preoperative assessments, including reviewing patient history, to determine the appropriate plan of care
  • Ensure all surgical instruments and equipment are properly sterilized and prepared before surgery
  • Provide postoperative care by assessing for complications, applying dressings, and offering pain management solutions
  • Collaborate with the surgical team, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care throughout the surgical process
Benefits:
  • Healthcare coverage: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401K
  • Paid Time Off
  • Tuition Assistance
Salary: $74,000 to $122,000 /year

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