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First Assist Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

ScionHealth

Surgical First Assistant

Columbus, GA · On-site

The Surgical Technologist - First Assist functions as an integral member of the surgical team, providing advanced intraoperative assistance to the surgeon during operative procedures. In addition to ...

New

Emory Healthcare

Surgical Assistant/First Asst

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$47.79 - $56.81/hr

The surgical assistant/first assistant is responsible for assisting the surgeon under direct and indirect supervision throughout preoperative, intraoperative, and post-operative duties and procedures ...

Ace Hardware

First Assistant Manager

Kennesaw, GA

$16 - $22/hr

Assistant Store Manager Department: Store Operations Reports To: Store Manager Job Summary: The Assistant Store Manager supports the Store Manager in leading all aspects of store operations to ...

Ace Hardware

First Assistant Manager

Kennesaw, GA

$16 - $22/hr

Assistant Store Manager Department: Store Operations Reports To: Store Manager Job Summary: The Assistant Store Manager supports the Store Manager in leading all aspects of store operations to ...

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All JobsFirst Assist JobsFirst Assist Jobs in Georgia

First Assist information

See Georgia salary details

$7

$15

$24

How much do first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for first assist in Georgia is $16.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

How do you become a certified first assist?

To become a certified first assist, you typically need to be a registered nurse or physician assistant and complete a specialized training program in surgical assisting, such as the Certified First Assistant (CFA) credential offered by the National Surgical Assistant Association. This involves gaining clinical experience, completing coursework, and passing a certification exam. Continuing education is often required to maintain certification.
First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assist job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,275 per year, or $16 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

ScionHealth

Columbus, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

ScionHealth rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

805th of 896 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Join St. Francis-Emory Healthcare, a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St. Francis also delivers advanced heart, orthopedic, and women's care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.
Job Summary
  • The Surgical Technologist - First Assist functions as an integral member of the surgical team, providing advanced intraoperative assistance to the surgeon during operative procedures. In addition to performing core surgical technologist duties, this role directly assists with exposure, hemostasis, suturing, and other technical functions under the direction and supervision of the surgeon. The First Assist helps ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care throughout the perioperative process.

Essential Functions
  • Prepares and maintains the sterile field, instruments, and supplies required for surgical procedures.
  • Functions as a first assistant to the surgeon by providing direct intraoperative support, including:
  • Assisting with tissue retraction, exposure, and visualization
  • Controlling bleeding through clamping, cauterization, or other techniques
  • Suturing, stapling, and closing surgical wounds as directed
  • Handling and positioning tissues and organs during procedures
  • Anticipates surgeon needs and ensures instruments and supplies are readily available.
  • Assists with patient positioning, draping, and preparation in accordance with surgical and safety standards.
  • Maintains strict adherence to sterile technique and infection prevention protocols.
  • Participates in surgical counts to ensure accuracy of instruments, sponges, and sharps.
  • Assists in the preparation, handling, and use of surgical equipment and technology.
  • Collaborates with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and nursing staff to support optimal patient outcomes.
  • Responds appropriately to intraoperative complications and emergencies.
  • Ensures proper specimen handling and documentation.
  • Participates in turnover and preparation of the operating room between cases.
  • Maintains knowledge of surgical procedures, techniques, and equipment advancements.
  • Adheres to all regulatory, accreditation, and organizational standards, including patient safety and HIPAA requirements.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations
  • Advanced knowledge of surgical anatomy, procedures, and instrumentation.
  • Proficiency in aseptic technique and sterile field maintenance.
  • Strong technical skills in suturing, tissue handling, and surgical assisting techniques.
  • Ability to anticipate surgical team needs and respond quickly in a dynamic environment.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
  • Knowledge of patient safety standards and infection control practices.

Qualifications
Education
  • Postsecondary (Cert/Diploma/Program Grad) Graduate of an accredited surgical technology program (Required) And
  • Postsecondary (Cert/Diploma/Program Grad) Completion of an accredited Surgical First Assist program based on state regulations (May be Required-Facility Specific)

Licenses/Certifications
  • CST - Certified Surgical Technologist Upon Hire (Required)
  • Other: Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified First Assistant (CFA) based on facility or state requirements (May be Required-Facility Specific)
  • BCLS - Basic Life Support Upon Hire or within facility-specified time frame (Required)

Experience
  • 2+ years operating room experience as a surgical technologist (Required) And
  • Prior Experience performing first assist duties in surgical procedures (Preferred)

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