ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

GLC On-The-Go

Travel OR First Assistant

Springfield, IL · On-site

$2.1K - $2.2K/day

First Assist Technician * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 08/24/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel OR Tech First Assistant ...

BJC

RN - First Assist (RNFA)

Alton, IL · On-site

Operating Room First Assistant Since 1937, Alton Memorial Hospital has cared for residents in Alton, Illinois, and the surrounding communities in a five-county area. Starting as a land gift to the ...

BJC HealthCare

RN - First Assist (RNFA)

Alton, IL

Delivers intraoperative patient care as the first assistant to the surgeon(s) as a collaborative team member. Pre-operatively performs a focused nursing assessment in reference to planned procedure.

Sih

Surgical Tech - First Assistant

Carbondale, IL · On-site

$30.57 - $47.38/hr

Licenses and Certification Basic Life Support (BLS) certificate and Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA) and CSFA Certification within one year of employment and case log per NBTSA criteria.

Sih

Surgical Tech - First Assistant

Carbondale, IL · On-site

$30.57 - $47.38/hr

Licenses and Certification Basic Life Support (BLS) certificate and Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA) and CSFA Certification within one year of employment and case log per NBTSA criteria.

Uniti Med

Travel OR First Assistant

Springfield, IL · On-site

Specialty: First Assist Technician * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 08/24/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel ...

HSHS

Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA)

Breese, IL · On-site

$38.80 - $58.20/hr

Registered Nurse, First Assist (RNFA) Pay Range: $38.80 - $58.20 A successful candidate's actual pay rate will be based on several factors including relevant experience, skills, training ...

BJC HealthCare

RN - First Assist (RNFA)

Alton, IL · On-site

$38.42 - $64.34/hr

Delivers intraoperative patient care as the first assistant to the surgeon(s) as a collaborative team member. Pre-operatively performs a focused nursing assessment in reference to planned procedure.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Illinois

First Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$31.5K

$129.3K

$185.6K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Illinois is $129,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $174,900.00 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 Illinois? The most popular types of First jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Illinois 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 $129,318 per year, or $62.2 per hour.

RN FIRST ASSIST OR SURGICAL TECH FIRST ASSIST/SURGICAL ASSISTANT

Blessing Hospital

Quincy, IL • On-site

$40.23 - $60.35/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Blessing Health System rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

349th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

SURGICAL TECH FA PAY RATE: $36.15-$54.23
REGISTERED NURSE FA PAY RATE: $40.23-$60.35
BASED ON RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
RNFA/STFA POSITION IS ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO A $20,000 SIGN-ON BONUS
THIS POSITION IS ELIGIBLE FOR A RELOCATION STIPEND IF MOVING MORE THAN 50 MILES FROM BLESSING HEALTH SYSTEM.

COMPETITIVE BENEFITS
Click here to review our complete Total Rewards Guide. 

  • 403b + matching
  • Up to 4 weeks paid time off in first year
  • Onsite childcare - Quincy 
  • 24/7 Wellness Center access 
  • Educational assistance opportunities
     
JOB SUMMARY
This position is vital to the operating suite. The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) or Surgical Tech First Assistant provides immediate support to the surgeon.
 
This position requires strong communication skills, ability to demonstrate technical skills and a strong working knowledge of surgical tools and equipment.
 
This position requires providing services to one or more age populations, including neonate through geriatric, in a manner that demonstrates an understanding of the functional/developmental age of the individual served.
 
This position requires full understanding and active participation in fulfilling the Mission of Blessing Corporate Services. ICARE standards must be demonstrated. Adherence to Code of Conduct and other policies is required.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Training/Experience:
REQUIRED:
  • Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant or Certified Surgical Tech FA
License/Certifications/Special Requirements:
  • Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant / Certified Surgical Tech FA (National Assistant At Surgery Certification / NASC)
PAY STATUS
  • Exempt
EEO Statement: Blessing Health System provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Blessing Health System complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
 
Blessing Health System expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Blessing Health System's employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.
 
 
 

What Blessing Health System employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply