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First Assistant Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Description First Financial Bank has an immediate opening for a Payroll Assistant at the Corporate Office located in El Dorado, Arkansas. The primary responsibility of this position is to process all ...

Agri Loan Assistant

El Dorado, AR · On-site

$33K - $41K/yr

Description First Financial Bank has an immediate opening for an Agri Loan Assistant at the Corporate Office located in El Dorado, Arkansas. The primary responsibility of this position is to assist ...

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First Assistant information

See Arkansas salary details

$26.9K

$110.4K

$158.4K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Arkansas is $110,352.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,500.00 and $149,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are First Assistants?

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's the easiest hospital job to get?

The easiest hospital job to get is often a patient transporter or hospital aide, which typically requires minimal formal education and on-the-job training. These roles usually have high turnover and may not require certifications, making them accessible entry-level positions in healthcare settings.

How much do first assistants make per hour?

First assistants typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often work in fast-paced environments and may require skills in organization and communication.

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.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and advanced healthcare facilities, such as metropolitan areas or states with strong medical industries. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of surgeries also influence earning potential, with those working in specialized or high-demand surgical fields typically earning more.

What does a first assistant do?

A first assistant is a key member of a production team, often in film or theater, responsible for supporting the director or producer by managing schedules, coordinating communication, and assisting with logistical tasks. They may also handle administrative duties, oversee daily operations, and ensure the smooth flow of the project. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of production processes are essential for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of First jobs in Arkansas? The most popular types of First jobs in Arkansas are:
What cities in Arkansas are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in Arkansas with the most First Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Arkansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,352 per year, or $53.1 per hour.
CW Physician Assistant Cardiac Surgery

CW Physician Assistant Cardiac Surgery

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Little Rock, AR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

301st of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Closing Date:
Type of Position:
Job Type:
Patient Care Contractor
Work Shift:
Institution Name:
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has a unique combination of education, research, and clinical programs that encourages and supports teamwork and diversity. We champion being a collaborative health care organization, focused on improving patient care and the lives of Arkansans.
The safety of our team members at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is our top priority. For this reason, successful applicants for this position must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 or have an approved medical or religious exemption on file with our Student & Employee Health Services dept. UAMS will adhere to all federal, state and local regulations and will obtain necessary proof of vaccination prior to employment to ensure compliance.
Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. To apply for the position, please click the Apply link/button.
The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, or sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity). Federal law prohibits the University from discriminating on these bases. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator at this link and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.
Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.
All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.
For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at askrecruitment@uams.edu.
Department:
ICE | CW CVSL Mid-Levels IP C
Summary of Job Duties:
The Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant will assist the Cardiothoracic Surgeon during surgery for cardiothoracic surgery patients, acting as first assist in the operating room, answer pages, and cover call as needed. The candidate must have a high level of expertise to perform assessments/diagnosis/treatment of actual and potential patient problems, and skills for ongoing clinical management of patients.
The Cardiac Surgery Physician Assistant is a highly qualified individual who has demonstrated expertise in cardiothoracic surgery and possesses a niche set of skills to manage cardiothoracic patients. This position will require experienced clinical, technical, and leadership skills as the First Surgical Assistant in the operating room, supporting the cardiothoracic surgeons and surgical team. This position works first during open heart and thoracic surgical procedures under the direction of the attending physician and assists with the pre- and post-operative care of the cardiac surgical patient. The Cardiac Surgery Physician Assistant will assist in coordinating caseload and assignments. This position is a critical member of the team as we offer surgical solutions to the most complex cardiac patients.
Qualifications:
  • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Graduation from a nationally accredited PA program.
  • Physician Assistant license/certification
  • Must be eligible for prescriptive authority certificate.

Preferred:
  • Five years previous experience in cardiovascular surgery or other surgical specialties.

Additional Information:
Special Instructions to Applicants:
All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS
Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

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