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First Assist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McDonald's

First Assistant Manager

Canton, NC · On-site

The First Assistant is the right-hand person to the General manager and are trained to manage all aspects of the business when the GM is not available. They are an intricate part of the restaurant ...

Reno Orthopedic Center

Surgical First Assist

Reno, NV · On-site

Join ROC as a First Assist! We'd love to show you what it's like to work here. If selected for an interview, you'll see the surgery center and our people in action. This position will remain posted ...

LifeCenter Northwest

Surgical First Assist

Bellevue, WA

$99K - $148K/yr

The Surgical First Assist (SFA) is accountable for all activities related to the surgical recovery and safe preservation of organs from donors. SFA's wear many different 'Scrub-Hats' in the delicate ...

McDonald's

First Assistant Manager

Flat Rock, NC · On-site

The First Assistant is the right-hand person to the General manager and are trained to manage all aspects of the business when the GM is not available. They are an intricate part of the restaurant ...

McDonald's

First Assistant Manager

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

The First Assistant is the right-hand person to the General manager and are trained to manage all aspects of the business when the GM is not available. They are an intricate part of the restaurant ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$48.51 - $79.07/hr

Inova Alexandria Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! Full-time (40 hrs/week) Day Shift: Monday-Friday, either two shifts-7:00am-3:00pm and two shifts-7:00am-7 ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Alexandria, VA

Inova Alexandria Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! Full-time (40 hrs/week) Day Shift: Monday-Friday, either two shifts-7:00am-3:00pm and two shifts-7:00am-7 ...

Reno Orthopedic Center

Surgical First Assist

Reno, NV · On-site

Join ROC as a First Assist! We'd love to show you what it's like to work here. If selected for an interview, you'll see the surgery center and our people in action. This position will remain posted ...

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How much do first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for first assist in the United States is $18.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.15 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 are hiring for First Assist jobs? Cities with the most First Assist job openings:
What states have the most First Assist jobs? States with the most job openings for First Assist jobs include:
First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assist job openings in the United States 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 $39,407 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Surgical First Assistant

Surgical First Assistant

TriStar Skyline Medical Center

Franklin, TN • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description


Do you want to join an organization that invests in you as a(an) Certified Surgical First Assistant? At TriStar Skyline Medical Center, you come first. HCA Healthcare has committed up to $300 million in programs to support our incredible team members over the course of three years. 


Benefits 


TriStar Skyline Medical Center, offers a total rewards package that supports the health, life, career and retirement of our colleagues. The available plans and programs include: 


  • Comprehensive medical coverage that covers many common services at no cost or for a low copay. Plans include prescription drug and behavioral health coverage as well as free telemedicine services and free AirMed medical transportation. 


  • Additional options for dental and vision benefits, life and disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, supplemental health protection plans (accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity), auto and home insurance, identity theft protection, legal counseling, long-term care coverage, moving assistance, pet insurance and more. 


  • Free counseling services and resources for emotional, physical and financial wellbeing 


  • 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service) 


  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with 10% off HCA Healthcare stock 


  • Family support through fertility and family building benefits with Progyny and adoption assistance. 


  • Referral services for child, elder and pet care, home and auto repair, event planning and more 


  • Consumer discounts through Abenity and Consumer Discounts 


  • Retirement readiness, rollover assistance services and preferred banking partnerships 


  • Education assistance (tuition, student loan, certification support, dependent scholarships) 


  • Colleague recognition program 


  • Time Away From Work Program (paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence) 


  • Employee Health Assistance Fund that offers free employee-only coverage to full-time and part-time colleagues based on income. 


Learn more about Employee Benefits 


Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location. 


You contribute to our success. Every role has an impact on our patients’ lives and you have the opportunity to make a difference. We are looking for a dedicated Certified Surgical First Assistant like you to be a part of our team. 


Job Summary and Qualifications 


The Certified First Assistant is an active member of the healthcare team in the operating room. Responsible for assisting the healthcare team in assessing the needs of the patients, infancy through life span, and for organizing and planning care sufficient to meet identified needs during the preoperative and intra-operative phase. Pre-operative patient management is, included but not limited to, communicating with other healthcare providers regarding the patients’ plan of care. Intra-operatively, included but not limited to, using instruments/medical devices, providing exposure, handling and/or cutting tissue, providing hemostasis and suturing. The CFA may be asked to precept/mentor others within his/her realm of expertise. 


What qualifications you will need: 


  • High School Graduate / GED 


  • Minimum of 3 years experience preferred 


  • Certified as a Surgical First Assistant (CSFA by the NBSTSA) 


  • Basic Cardiac Life Support, or CPR must be obtained within 30 days of employment start date 



TriStar Skyline Medical Center is a 250+ bed facility. We are Tennessee's first comprehensive stroke center and a national leader in neuroscience. In addition, we are equipped with 3 helipads, new ICU and Medical/Surgical floors, and burn care services. We offer a CARF accredited Inpatient Rehabilitation program and are an ACS verified Level II Trauma Center. As an Accredited Chest Pain Center with PCI, TriStar Skyline is a leading provider of emergency heart care. 


"Good people beget good people."- Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr. 
HCA Healthcare Co-Founder 


We are a family 270,000 dedicated professionals! Our Talent Acquisition team is reviewing applications for our Certified Surgical First Assistant opening. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews.Submit your resume today to join our community of caring! 


We are an opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. 

Apply