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First Assistant Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Act as first assist during general surgery procedures within the operating room. * Deliver comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care, including hospital rounding. * Conduct thorough patient ...

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First Assistant information

See Alabama salary details

$29.5K

$121K

$173.6K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Alabama is $120,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,700.00 and $163,600.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of First jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of First jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most First Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,959 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Physician Assistant - Neurosurgery

The Provider Finder

Kinsey, AL โ€ข On-site

$90K - $122K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Physician Assistant โ€“ Neurosurgery

Location: Dothan, Alabama Schedule: Full-Time

This opportunity is with a large, well-established regional health system serving southeastern Alabama, southwest Georgia, and parts of northern Florida. The organization provides comprehensive neurological and neurosurgical services, including advanced brain and spine surgery, trauma care, stroke services, neurocritical care, and diagnostic imaging.

Providers benefit from modern operating suites, advanced neurosurgical technology, robust physician support, and a highly coordinated inpatient and outpatient neurology service line.

The facility is known for its collaborative culture, excellent surgical outcomes, and commitment to innovation in neurosciences.

Position Summary

The health system is seeking an experienced Physician Assistant with a strong background in Neurosurgery or Neurosciences to join its expanding neurosurgery team in Dothan, Alabama.

This role includes a mix of operating room first assist, inpatient rounding, consult management, and follow-up clinic visits. You will work closely with neurosurgeons, neurologists, PAs/NPs, neurohospitalists, and multidisciplinary teams within a high-acuity environment.

Prior neurosurgery or neurosciences experience is required โ€” cranial, spine, trauma, or neuro ICU exposure preferred.

Essential Position Responsibilities
  • Assist neurosurgeons in the operating room as first assist for spine and cranial procedures
  • Conduct inpatient rounding, postoperative management, and neurosurgical consult evaluations
  • Perform preoperative history and physicals, perioperative assessments, and discharge planning
  • Manage trauma-related neurosurgical cases in collaboration with the surgical and trauma teams
  • Provide follow-up care in the neurosurgery outpatient clinic
  • Perform bedside procedures as appropriate (e.g., wound care, suture/staple removal, drain management)
  • Present clinical updates and collaborate with neurohospitalists, intensivists, trauma surgeons, and nursing staff
  • Maintain accurate documentation in the electronic health record (EHR)
  • Participate in departmental quality improvement and clinical protocol initiatives
Qualifications Education
  • Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program
Licensure & Certification
  • Board-Certified Physician Assistant
  • Active Alabama PA license or eligibility to obtain
  • BLS and ACLS required (or willingness to obtain)
Experience
  • Must have prior neurosurgery or neurosurgical/neurosciences experience
  • Experience in cranial, spine, neuro trauma, or neurocritical care strongly preferred
  • Hospital-based PA experience beneficial
Skills
  • Strong OR first-assist technical capabilities
  • Excellent clinical judgment in high-acuity neurological cases
  • Ability to manage fast-paced inpatient and trauma consult volumes
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Empathetic, patient-centered approach
Compensation and Environment
  • Competitive base salary + productivity incentives, commensurate with experience
  • Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans
  • CME allowance + paid CME days
  • Malpractice insurance
  • Paid time off + reimbursement for licenses/certifications
  • Collaborative, supportive environment with strong neurosurgical and neurological infrastructure