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First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mission Hospital

Surgical First Assistant

Asheville, NC · On-site

$2.3K/wk

Certified Surgical First Assistant Job Type: Travel Profession: Certified Surgical First Assistant Specialty: Surgical First Assistant Weekly Pay: $2,351 Shift Details: 10-Hour Day Job Order Details:

Methodist Hospital

Surgical First Assist

Cibolo, TX · On-site

Jump-start your career as a First Assist today with Methodist Hospital. Benefits Methodist Hospital, offers a total rewards package that supports the health, life, career and retirement of our ...

Methodist Hospital Metropolitan

First Assist

Cibolo, TX · On-site

Introduction Do you have the career opportunities as a First Assist you want with your current employer? We have an exciting opportunity for you to join Methodist Hospital Metropolitan which is part ...

Seven Healthcare

Surgical First Assistant

Oak Lawn, IL · On-site

$2.7K/wk

Surgical First Assistant Surgical First Assistant - Travel Location: Oak Lawn, IL Pay: $2728.80 weekly Shifts: Various Shifts Available Seven Healthcare are seeking a highly skilled Surgical First ...

UVA Health

Surgical First Assistant

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$42.06/hr

Surgical First Assistant Job Code: SS1701 Work a minimum of 3 ten hour shifts 0700-1730 per 6 weeks and one call weekend call shift depending on departments needs per 6 weeks. ABOUT US We are ...

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 ...

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First Assistant information

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$32.5K

$133.5K

$191.5K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in the United States is $133,451.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $180,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first assistant?

First Assistants, often referred to as First Assistant Directors (First ADs) in film and television production, are responsible for coordinating all production activities on set. They assist the director by managing the shooting schedule, ensuring that cast and crew are prepared, and facilitating communication between departments. Their role is essential in keeping the production running smoothly, safely, and on time. First Assistants also help enforce safety protocols and can be involved in overseeing rehearsals and blocking scenes. Overall, they play a key organizational and leadership role in any production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Assistant, you need a comprehensive understanding of surgical procedures, aseptic techniques, and anatomy, usually backed by a relevant certification such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent clinical training. Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room protocols, and electronic medical records is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure optimal surgical outcomes, enhance patient safety, and support seamless teamwork in the operating room.

What are some common challenges first assistants face when supporting high-level executives or teams?

First Assistants often juggle multiple priorities, such as managing complex calendars, responding to urgent requests, and coordinating logistics for meetings or events. One common challenge is maintaining clear communication and anticipating the needs of executives, which requires strong organizational skills and discretion. Additionally, First Assistants may need to adapt quickly to changing schedules or last-minute tasks, making flexibility and problem-solving essential. Building good relationships with both internal teams and external contacts also helps ensure smooth workflow and successful collaboration.

What is the difference between First Assistant vs Second Assistant?

AspectFirst AssistantSecond Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires medical or legal certifications, depending on industrySimilar credentials, often with less experience required
Work EnvironmentHigh-pressure settings, assisting lead professionalsSupport role, often in administrative or support settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in legal, medical, or film industries as a primary support roleSupporting role, often subordinate to First Assistant
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for responsibilities and qualificationsLess frequently searched in comparison to First Assistant

The First Assistant typically holds more responsibilities, requires specific certifications, and works closely with lead professionals in high-pressure environments. The Second Assistant generally provides support and performs delegated tasks, often with less experience or certification requirements. Understanding these differences helps clarify career progression and role expectations within the industry.

How do I become a first assistant?

To become a first assistant, typically you need relevant experience in the field, strong communication and organizational skills, and often a background in the specific industry or environment. Some roles may require specific certifications or training, depending on the industry standards. Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions can also be beneficial.

How much do first assistants make?

First assistants in Florida typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often require strong organizational skills and proficiency with office tools to perform their duties effectively.

What cities are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most First Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of First jobs?

The most popular types of First jobs are:

What states have the most First Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to First Assistant jobs?

For First Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,451 per year, or $64.2 per hour.

First Assistant

Hermitage, TN • On-site

TriStar Summit Medical Center
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about TriStar Summit Medical Centerexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

This position is 11:00 am - 7:00 pm shift


Are you passionate about the patient experience? At HCA Healthcare, we are committed to caring for patients with purpose and integrity. We care like family! Jump-start your career as a Certified Surgical First Assistant today with TriStar Summit Medical Center.

Benefits

TriStar Summit 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.

Come join our team as a Certified Surgical First Assistant. We care for our community! Just last year, HCA Healthcare and our colleagues donated $13.8 million dollars to charitable organizations. Apply Today!

Job Summary and Qualifications

Our Surgical Service teams are a committed, caring group of colleagues. We have a passion for creating positive patient interactions. We offer a vast array of robotic surgical technology including gynecology, general, thoracic, urology, spine and joint replacement. Services offered at Summit include Gynecology, urology, neurology, spine, orthopedics, general, ENT, plastics and vascular. As a Surgical Tech you will work directly with the surgeon in the operating room. You may scrub and assist the physician during procedures. If you are dedicated to caring for the well-being of others, this could be your next opportunity.


Your responsibilities and tasks may include:

  • Communicating the surgeon’s preferences and specific patient needs to surgical team
  • Positioning the patient to provide the necessary exposure for the procedure, as well as the surgeon preference
  • Providing intraoperative skills such as visualization, trocar insertion, hemostasis, tissue handling, placement and securing of wound drains
  • Having knowledge of and using all open, laparoscopic, and robotic equipment necessary for a procedure
  • Proficiency in technical skills required during a surgical procedure, including, but not limited to: clamping, cauterizing, suturing, inserting, manipulating, retracting, cutting, and ligating tissue as necessary
  • Utilizing appropriate suturing techniques, according to surgeon preference, to close the incision at the end of the procedure
  • Providing postoperative skills in patient care such as applying dressings to surgical wounds, patient transfer and transport, transfer of care, and monitoring for immediate complications
  • Collaborating with others to provide continuity of care


What qualifications you will need:

  • Basic Cardiac Life Support must be obtained within 30 days of employment start date
  • Certification as a First Assistant through NBSTSA - REQUIRED
  • High School Diploma/GED required
  • 1 Year of experience required



TriStar Summit is a 234-bed comprehensive facility. We serve Davidson, Wilson and surrounding counties. We include a Level III Trauma Center. We offer a full array of acute care services. These include cardiology, oncology, orthopedics/spine, rehabilitation and women’s services. We are an Accredited Chest Pain Center with PCI. We are a Primary Stroke Center. TriStar Summit is a leading provider of emergency heart and stroke care.


"The great hospitals will always put the patient and the patient's family first, and the really great institutions will provide care with warmth, compassion, and dignity for the individual."- Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr.

HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

If you are looking for an opportunity that provides satisfaction and personal growth, we encourage you to apply for our Surgical Tech III opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. Unlock the possibilities and apply today!


We are an equal 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.

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