1

First Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

RN - First Assist

Shiloh, IL · On-site

$90 - $130/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.

New

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.

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 ...

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.

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.

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.

$45.36 - $70.31/hr

Registered Nurse First Assistant Registered Nurse- First Assistants are responsible for assisting in patient care and preparation of surgical patients by performing scrub, circulating duties.

OR First Assist RN

Sparta, IL · On-site

$34 - $43/hr

Registered Nurse Full Time Surgery RN-First Assistant Sparta, IL, US Salary Range: $34 To $43 Hourly $20,000 Sign on Bonus Surgery Registered Nurse-First Assistant (Bargaining Unit Position) Surgery ...

Showing results 21-40

First Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$31.5K

$129.3K

$185.6K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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.

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 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:

Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,318 per year, or $62.2 per hour.

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


BJC Healthcare rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 232 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Additional Information About the Role
  • Must have RNFA certification
  • CNOR
  • 4 8 hour days
Overview

Memorial Hospital Belleville is an acute care hospital offering medical and surgical services plus critical and emergency care including Children’s at Memorial for pediatric emergency care. It provides patients a full complement of diagnostic and treatment services as well as heart and vascular care. Memorial, offering medical and surgical services plus critical care, is an accredited Chest Pain Center with PCI by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care and is designated as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital by the Illinois Department of Public Health. In addition, Memorial Belleville recently was accredited by the American College of Radiology as a designated Lung Cancer Screening Center. Since 2008, it has been designated as a Magnet®-recognized organization for nursing excellence by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Memorial Hospital Shiloh, a 94-bed, all-private suite hospital was recognized with Magnet status in 2018 and provides emergency care, labor & delivery, nursery, medical and surgical services plus critical care.

Perioperative Services provides care and support services for the surgical and gastroenterology patients. Perioperative services provides care for the adult and pediatric patients throughout the continuum of their Perioperative stay. Procedures may be performed on both inpatient and outpatient adult surgical and gastroenterology patients.

Preferred Qualifications Role Purpose

Performs an expanded perioperative role as a first assistant to surgeons during surgical procedures in the operating room. RNFA works alongside the surgeon to provide direct patient care. Works as a professional colleague with the perioperative team and collaborates with the patient-designated support person, and other health care providers when making decisions to plan care.

Responsibilities
  • 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. Analyzes the assessment data to determine nursing diagnosis. Identifies and communicates desired patient outcomes throughout the perioperative continuum.
  • Functions as a member of the surgical team and contribute to the overall efficiency of the peri-operative department. Considers factors related to safety, effectiveness, efficiency, the environments, and the cost in planning, delivering, and evaluating patient care.
  • Monitors patients response and modifies plan of care accordingly. Administers Medications according to standard nursing practice. Develops and manages an individual plan of care that directs the intervention(s) of the RNFA. Implements, manages, and coordinates the perioperative plan of care related to RNFA interventions. Evaluates patient progress towards attaining outcomes. Systematically evaluates quality of nursing practice.
  • Participates in professional development and life long learning. Seeks out and participates in learning opportunities. Evaluates their practice in context with current professional practice standards, rules and regulations. Contributes to the professional growth of peers, colleagues and others.
  • Integrates knowledge, skills, and experiences to meet the needs of patients and families throughout the continuum to include patient and family education. Incorporates research findings into practice. Practices in an ethical manner using available resources to formulate ethical decisions. Advocates for individuals and groups related to perioperative health safety. Provides leadership in the profession and professional practice setting.
Minimum Requirements Education
  • Nursing Diploma/Associate's
  • - Nursing
Experience
  • 2-5 years
Supervisor Experience
  • No Experience
Licenses & Certifications
  • RN
Preferred Requirements Education
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • - Nursing
Licenses & Certifications
  • Certified First Assistant
  • Cert Nurse OR (CNOR)
  • CERTIFIED RN FIRST ASSIST
Benefits and Legal Statement BJC Total Rewards

At BJC we’re committed to providing you and your family with benefits and resources to help you manage your physical, emotional, social and financial well-being.

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vison, life insurance, and legal services available first day of the month after hire date
  • Disability insurance* paid for by BJC
  • Annual 4% BJC Automatic Retirement Contribution
  • 401(k) plan with BJC match
  • Tuition Assistance available on first day
  • BJC Institute for Learning and Development
  • Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Time Off benefit combines vacation, sick days, holidays and personal time
  • Adoption assistance

To learn more, go to our Benefits Summary.

*Not all benefits apply to all jobs

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this position. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Equal Opportunity Employer

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What BJC Healthcare employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


BJC Healthcare logo

About BJC Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

BJC Healthcare, situated in Saint Louis, MO, US, is one of the largest healthcare organizations in the United States. Launched in 1993, BJC encompasses 15 hospitals and multiple health service organizations covering the metropolitan St. Louis area, mid-Missouri and Southern Illinois. This healthcare titan's services cover a vast field, from community health and wellness, to pediatric care, to advanced specialty care. BJC is well-known for its two nationally recognized hospitals, Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children's Hospital, both affiliated with Washington University School of Medicine. Its mission revolves around improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves through leadership, education, innovation, and excellence in medicine.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US