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First Assist information

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$8

$17

$26

How much do first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for first assist in Tennessee is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $19.18 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 Tennessee are hiring for First Assist jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most First Assist job openings:
First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assist job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,766 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Surgical First Assistant

Surgical First Assistant

United Surgical Partners International Inc (USPI)

Gallatin, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

United Surgical Partners International rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Patient Partners Surgery Center is Hiring a Certified First Assistant

$20k Sign on bonus available. 

No weekends, No Holidays, No Call!

Welcome to Patient Partners Surgery Center! Patient Partners Surgery Center is a dynamic, fast-paced facility dedicated to delivering exceptional care and providing the highest quality experience for both patients and their families.

Certified First Assistant Registered at Patient Partners Surgery Center

A surgical first assistant plays a vital role in a successful surgical procedure. They are primarily in charge of assisting surgeons, such as by arranging and handing over tools, holding open incisions, and dressing surgical wounds.

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Completion of a Surgical Technician Program.
  • NBSTSA Surgical First Assistant Certification required.
  • Two years of Certified Surgical First Assistant experience in multiple specialties or an equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred.
  • Able to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations. Other skills and abilities: General familiarity with medical terminology as it pertains to anatomy and surgical procedures in an operating room.

What We Offer

As an organization, one way we care for our communities and each other is by providing a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage
  • Life and AD&D coverage
  • Availability of short- and long-term disability
  • Flexible financial benefits including FSAs and HSAs
  • 401(k) and access to retirement planning
  • Paid holidays and vacation

Who We Are

At USPI, we create relationships that create better care. We partner with physicians and healthcare systems to provide first-class ambulatory solutions throughout the United States. We are committed to providing surgical services in the most efficient and clinically excellent manner.

USPI is committed to, and proud of, our inclusive culture. An inclusive culture, in our view, is respectful of differences and nurtures and supports the contributions of each individual, while also embracing and leveraging diversity. A diverse workforce, combined with an inclusive culture, makes USPI stronger and better able to meet the needs of our diverse patient and physician population.

 #LI-SB1

#USP-123


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