ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TMS

Travel RN First Assistant (RNFA)

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$79 - $81/hr

RN First Assist Bakersfield, California Contract Dates: July 6, 2026 - November 8, 2026 Shift: 10-Hour Days (6:30 AM - 5:00 PM) Duration: 18 Weeks Position Overview We are seeking an experienced RN ...

O'Reilly Auto Parts

First Assistant Manager

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$18.20 - $24.50/hr

Compensation Pay Range: $18.20 - $24.50 The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual, quarterly ...

O'Reilly Auto Parts

First Assistant Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$17.95 - $24.50/hr

Compensation Pay Range: $17.95 - $24.50 The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual, quarterly ...

O'Reilly Auto Parts

First Assistant Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18.45 - $25/hr

Compensation Pay Range: $18.45 - $25.00 The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual, quarterly ...

O'Reilly Auto Parts

First Assistant Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18.45 - $25/hr

Compensation Pay Range: $18.45 - $25.00 The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual, quarterly ...

Anders Group

Travel RN First Assistant

Lakeport, CA · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 10 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel Anders Group Job ID #1367253. Pay package is based on ...

Prime Staffing

Travel RN First Assistant

Lakeport, CA · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel About the Position Specialty: Registered Nurse - Operating ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in California

First Assistant information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$131.7K

$189K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in California is $131,704.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $178,100.00 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 California?

The most popular types of First jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most First Assistant job openings:

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,704 per year, or $63.3 per hour.

Surgical First Assist RN

St Josephs Medical Center

Stockton, CA • On-site

$57.37 - $85.33/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 25 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist during operative and invasive procedures by assessing patients, helping with tissue dissection and closure, and providing postoperative follow-up.

  • Collaborate closely with the surgical team, maintain precise documentation, and manage instruments to ensure patient safety and prevent surgical site infections.

  • Support the delivery of safe, effective, and patient-family centered care throughout the perioperative continuum.

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Surgical First Assist RN, you will help surgical patients across all age populations receive safe, effective, and quality patient-family centered care in the OR and other areas of perioperative services so they can achieve optimal surgical outcomes and a smooth recovery throughout the perioperative continuum.

Every day you will function as an RN First Assistant during operative and invasive procedures, including assessing patients, assisting with tissue dissection and closure, and providing postoperative follow-up. You will be expected to collaborate closely with the surgical team, maintain precise documentation, and ensure patient safety through careful management of instruments and prevention of surgical site infections.

To be successful in this role you must be committed to the delivery of safe, effective, and quality patient-family centered care for all patient populations. This requires a strong working knowledge of performance improvement, licensure, and accreditation requirements, along with active participation in fulfilling the Mission of the Organization and consistent demonstration of its Core Values. You will also possess excellent communication and organizational skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, Outlook, and Internet, and demonstrate a strong capacity for teaching, planning, and development to support the Organization's strategic plan and performance improvement initiatives.

  • Working knowledge of performance improvement, licensure and accreditation requirements
  • Knoweldge of Microsoft Office, Outlook and Internet
  • Demonstrate good capacity for teaching, organizing, planning and development
  • Possess strong interpersonal communication and customer relation skills
  • Possess knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications
Job Requirements

Required

  • Current California RN License
  • BLS through the American Heart Association (AHA)
  • ACLS through the American Heart Association (AHA)
  • PALS through the American Heart Association (AHA)
  • Graduate of an RN School of Nursing
  • RNFA or CRNFA certification
  • Three (3) years operating room experience as an RN or one (1) year current surgical first assistant experience required
  • Minimum fifty (50) core procedures completed within the past 24 months

Preferred 

  • Three (3) years operating room experience 
  • Prior Ortho and/or Cardio Thoracic experience 
  • Bachelor degree in health related field 
  • CNOR 
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1899, Dignity Health - St. Joseph’s Medical Center is a 355-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Stockton, California. Serving over 125,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level III NICU, cancer care, heart care, and a family birth center. Additionally, St. Joseph’s Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. It is a Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Center and was named one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals by Healthgrades in 2026.

One Community. One Mission. One California 

Qualifications:

Required

  • Current California RN License
  • BLS through the American Heart Association (AHA)
  • ACLS through the American Heart Association (AHA)
  • PALS through the American Heart Association (AHA)
  • Graduate of an RN School of Nursing
  • RNFA or CRNFA certification
  • Three (3) years operating room experience as an RN or one (1) year current surgical first assistant experience required
  • Minimum fifty (50) core procedures completed within the past 24 months

Preferred 

  • Three (3) years operating room experience 
  • Prior Ortho and/or Cardio Thoracic experience 
  • Bachelor degree in health related field 
  • CNOR 
Employment Type: PRN

Apply