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First Assistant Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Talented Medical Solutions

AZ · On-site

$2.2K/wk

First Assist exp required First Assist Scrub Tech for a 13 week assignment. Must be experience in First Assist Scrub Tech for a 13 week assignment. Must be experience in general, podiatry and ...

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CT Surgical First Assistant

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$1.9K - $2.2K/wk

Contract CT Surgical First Assistant (SFA) Location: Arizona Schedule: Monday - Friday | 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM Pay: $1,987 - $2,330 per week Requirements: Certified Surgical First Assistant (SFA) Prior ...

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CT Surgical First Assistant

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$2.4K/wk

CT Surgical First Assistant Location: Tucson, AZ Specialty: CT Surgical First Assistant Assignment Length: 13 weeks with possible extension Hours per Week: 40 Schedule: Days Shift Time: 7:00 AM - 3 ...

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All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Arizona

First Assistant information

See Arizona salary details

$30.3K

$124.4K

$178.5K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Arizona is $124,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $168,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 role. Some positions may require specific certifications or training, and gaining experience through entry-level roles can help advance to a first assistant position.

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 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of First jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of First jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,362 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

First Assist Scrub Tech

Talented Medical Solutions

AZ • On-site

$2.2K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Monday through Friday, 7 am to 3 PM and call Monday through Friday, every other weekend
certified first assist/surgical tech and BLS  /First Assist Scrub Tech.  Must be experience in general, podiatry and orthopedics. 
First Assist exp required

First Assist Scrub Tech for a 13 week assignment.  Must be experience in First Assist Scrub Tech for a 13 week assignment.  Must be experience in general, podiatry and orthopedics. 
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Must have graduated from an accredited Surgical Technician Program AND First Assist Program

Requires a current Certification as a Surgical Technician/First Assist. BLS Certification is required.

Requires a knowledge level typically obtained with two (2) years of Surgical Technician experience.
POSITION SUMMARY
Functions as surgical first assistant to the surgeon during the operation working under the direction and supervision of that surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. On occasion the surgical first assistant may have to perform the duties of a surgical technician. All surgical staff assists with room turn over.
CORE FUNCTIONS
1. Interacts professionally with patient and family. Provides patient with explanations and verbal reassurance, as necessary.

2. Adapts procedures to meet individual needs of pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients for treatment. Anticipates needs of surgeon during intraoperative phase.

3. Performs aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.

4. Follows written procedures for steam sterilization; knows responsibilities and the necessity for chemical and biological monitoring. Is fully responsible for care of instruments/equipment during intra/postoperative phase, including cleaning and processing of instruments.

5. Accurately completes operating room counts (instruments, sponges, needles); follows proper procedure in case of incorrect count; reports all discrepancies to circulating nurse and surgeon and/or corrects immediately. Carries out medical/surgical asepsis during treatments/procedures.

6. Regularly collaborates with other members of the nursing team, in order to maintain equipment and supplies for surgical procedures. Sets up, scrubs and prepares for procedures at least 15 minutes prior to scheduled time, unless otherwise directed by Circulating Nurse or Nurse Manager. Prepares room in a timely manner with all anticipated instruments, sutures, supplies and equipment for each individual surgical procedure.

7. Utilizes initiative; strives to maintain steady level of productivity; self-motivated. Organization and management of activities reflects due consideration for the needs of the department.

8. Always maintains an orderly and sterile instrument table for the purpose of efficiency; follows department standard set-up.

9. Applying sutures, staples, clips, and drainage systems and clamping, or cauterizing blood vessels to control bleeding.

10. Covering patients with surgical drapes to ensure and maintain a sterile operating field, removing patients' body hair, and disinfecting the incision site.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENT FACTORS

DP - Typical Direct Patient Care environment:
Able to stand, walk, bend, squat, reach, and stretch frequently.
Possess physical agility and adequate reaction time to respond quickly and appropriately to unexpected patient care needs.
Needs adequate hearing and visual acuity, including adequate color vision.
Requires fine motor skills, adequate eye-hand coordination, and ability to grasp and handle objects.
Able to use proper body mechanics to assist patients in ambulating, transferring in and out of bed, chair or wheelchair.
May be required to lift up to 50 pounds.
Must use standard precautions due to threat of exposure to blood and bodily fluids.
Needs ability to communicate effectively through reading, writing, and speaking in person or on telephone.
May require periodic use of personal computer.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Must have graduated from an accredited Surgical Technician Program AND First Assist Program

Requires a current Certification as a Surgical Technician/First Assist. BLS Certification is required.

Requires a knowledge level typically obtained with two (2) years of Surgical Technician experience.
Relates throughout the interview process the experience, training and education needed to perform the job.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Additional related education and/or experience preferred.