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First Assistant Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Jax Spine & Pain Centers

First Assist

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

The First Assist provides intraoperative surgical assistance to the surgeon during surgical procedures. This role supports the surgical team in ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care ...

Ascension

Surgical First Assist

Middleburg, FL

Surgical First Assist Diploma Why Join Our Team Ascension is a leading nonprofit Catholic health system with a culture and associate experience grounded in service, growth, care and connection. We ...

Ascension

Surgical First Assist

Middleburg, FL

$33.06/hr

Surgical First Assist Diploma Equal employment opportunity employer Ascension provides Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) to all associates and applicants for employment without regard to race ...

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All JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Florida

First Assistant information

See Florida salary details

$24.3K

$99.7K

$143.1K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Florida is $99,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,300.00 and $134,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a first assistant?

To become a first assistant, candidates typically 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, and on-the-job experience is highly valued. Developing a good understanding of the job's responsibilities and building professional relationships can also help advance to this position.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

First Assistants in film and television production can earn around $2,000 or more per day, especially for high-profile projects or with extensive experience. Such roles often require specialized skills, industry connections, and the ability to work long hours on set. Other high-paying freelance or consulting roles in finance, law, or executive management can also reach this daily rate, but they typically require advanced qualifications and significant expertise.

How much do first assistants make per hour?

First assistants typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often work in fast-paced environments and may require strong organizational skills and familiarity with office tools.

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 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 lead professionals. They handle tasks such as coordinating schedules, managing equipment, and assisting with technical or logistical needs to ensure smooth operations. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of industry tools are essential for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of First jobs in Florida? The most popular types of First jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in Florida with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Florida as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,727 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

First Assist

Jax Spine & Pain Centers

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

The First Assist provides intraoperative surgical assistance to the surgeon during surgical procedures. This role supports the surgical team in ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care by assisting with exposure, hemostasis, tissue handling, suturing, and other technical surgical tasks. The First Assist works closely with surgeons, anesthesiology staff, circulating nurses, and surgical technologists to ensure optimal surgical outcomes.
This position has full-time and/or part-time availability.

Essential Functions:

Surgical Assistance:
  • Provide direct intraoperative assistance to the surgeon during surgery.
  • Assist with exposure, retraction, suctioning, and maintaining a clear surgical field.
  • Perform suturing, ligation, cauterization, and closure of surgical incisions as directed by the surgeon.
  • Assist with placement of surgical implants, instrumentation, and specialized equipment.
  • Provide retraction when necessary. Manage tissue and implant handling during procedures.
  • Anticipate surgeon needs and ensure appropriate instruments and supplies are available.

Preoperative Support:
  • Participate in preoperative patient preparation and positioning.
  • Review surgical plans and preference cards to ensure readiness for procedures.
  • Ensure all surgical equipment and instruments are available and functioning properly.

Postoperative Care:
  • Assist with wound closure and dressing application.
  • Participate in patient transfer if needed.

Compliance & Safety:
  • Maintain strict adherence to sterile techniques and infection control standards.
  • Follow all facility policies, regulatory requirements, and safety protocols.
  • Ensure compliance with operating room standards and documentation requirements.

Team Collaboration:
  • Work collaboratively with surgeons, operating room nurses, anesthesia staff, and surgical technologists.
  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives and patient safety programs.
  • Provide support and mentorship to surgical staff when needed.

Qualifications:

Education:
One of the following is required:
  • Completion of an accredited Surgical First Assistant (SFA) program.
  • Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA).
  • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) with First Assist certification.

Certifications:
Preferred certifications may include:
  • CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant.
  • CRNFA - Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant.
  • Current BLS and/or ACLS certification.

Experience:
  • Minimum 2 years of surgical assisting experience preferred.
  • Experience with spine procedures, orthopedics and total joint replacements strongly preferred.

Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of surgical anatomy and sterile technique.
  • Ability to anticipate surgeon needs during complex procedures.
  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced operating room environment.
  • Strong attention to detail and patient safety.

Work Environment:
  • Operating room or outpatient surgical center setting.
  • Prolonged standing and physical activity during surgical procedures.
  • Exposure to surgical equipment, bodily fluids, and sterile environments.