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First Assistant Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Orthopedics Physician Assistant

Machias, ME

$115.80K - $157K/yr

Great facility is seeking an Orthopedic Surgery 1st Assist Physician Assistant in Eastern Maine. * Full-time, 40hrs wk. * Morning in the OR and afternoon clinic. * Seeking candidates with some ...

Physician Assistant - Podiatry

Rockport, ME · On-site

$109.50K - $148.40K/yr

First assist with Podiatrists in the operating room for a variety of foot and ankle procedures, limb salvage and/or reconstruction * Independently evaluate, diagnose, and manage a subset of routine ...

Physician Assistant - Podiatry

Rockport, ME

$109.50K - $148.40K/yr

First assist with Podiatrists in the operating room for a variety of foot and ankle procedures, limb salvage and/or reconstruction * Independently evaluate, diagnose, and manage a subset of routine ...

Nurse Practitioner - Podiatry

Rockport, ME · On-site

$121K - $153.30K/yr

First assist with Podiatrists in the operating room for a variety of foot and ankle procedures, limb salvage and/or reconstruction * Independently evaluate, diagnose, and manage a subset of routine ...

Nurse Practitioner - Podiatry

Rockport, ME

$121K - $153.30K/yr

First assist with Podiatrists in the operating room for a variety of foot and ankle procedures, limb salvage and/or reconstruction * Independently evaluate, diagnose, and manage a subset of routine ...

Physician Assistant, Orthopedics

Rockport, ME

$109.50K - $148.40K/yr

Experience in Orthopedics and First Assist Rockport, Maine , is a scenic coastal community in the heart of a four-season recreation area. Surrounded by both lakes and the ocean, Rockport is a haven ...

Physician Assistant, Orthopedics

Rockport, ME

$109.50K - $148.40K/yr

Experience in Orthopedics and First Assist Rockport, Maine , is a scenic coastal community in the heart of a four-season recreation area. Surrounded by both lakes and the ocean, Rockport is a haven ...

Physician Assistant, Orthopedics

Belfast, ME

$100K - $135.50K/yr

Experience in Orthopedics and First Assist Belfast, Maine , is a scenic coastal community in the heart of a four-season recreation area. Surrounded by both lakes and the ocean, Belfast is a haven for ...

Activities Assistant

Portland, ME · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Under the ownership of First Atlantic Healthcare, Seaside follows in First Atlantic's long standing ... As an Activities Assistant you will: * Lead & Implement: Execute a daily schedule of activities ...

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First Assistant information

See Maine salary details

$31.5K

$129.2K

$185.4K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Maine is $129,207.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $174,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A First Assistant, such as an executive or personal assistant, can earn around $10,000 per month with extensive experience, strong organizational skills, and sometimes specialized knowledge. High-level assistants in corporate or entertainment industries may reach this income level, especially with overtime, bonuses, or working for high-net-worth clients.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

A First Assistant in certain industries, such as film or theater, can earn around $3,000 a month depending on experience and workload. Other roles like administrative assistants, sales representatives, or skilled trades workers may also reach this income level without a formal degree, often requiring on-the-job training or certifications. Income varies based on location, industry, and experience.

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 the most commonly searched types of First jobs in Maine? The most popular types of First jobs in Maine are:
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Maine as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $129,207 per year, or $62.1 per hour.
Surgical First Assistant

Surgical First Assistant

Maine Medical Center

Portland, ME • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Maine Medical Center rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

477th of 989 rated hospitals


Job description

Description
Professional - Clinical
Req #: 77399
$15,000 Sign-On Bonus for Experienced SFA
Relocation for Approved Offers
Eligible candidates are Certified Surgical First Assists
Previous MMC and MaineHealth employees with more than 3 months of separation are eligible.
Current MMC and MaineHealth employees are not eligible.
Summary:
The Surgical First Assistant - MMCP role is responsible for assisting in surgical operations as part of a team under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. Adheres to applicable First Assist policies, standards and practice guidelines.
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
  1. Education: Graduate of an accredited School of Surgical Technology required. Completion of an accredited Surgical Assisting program required.
  2. License/Certifications: Current CSFA certification required. Current BLS certification required or must obtain within 30 days of start date.
  3. Experience: Two years of assisting experience preferred.
  4. Additional Skills/Requirements Required: N/A
  5. Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

Hiring Scam Alert
MaineHealth will never request financial information during the interview or pre-hiring process. All legitimate communications will come from an email address ending in @mainehealth.org. If you suspect fraudulent activity, please report it immediately to [email protected] .
Additional Information
With a career at any of the MaineHealth locations across Maine and New Hampshire, you'll be working with health care professionals that truly value the people around them - both within the walls of the organization and the communities that surround it.
We offer benefits that support an individual's needs for today and flexibility to plan for tomorrow - programs such as paid parental leave, a flexible work policy, student loan assistance, training and education, along with well-being resources for you and your family.
MaineHealth remains focused on investing in our care team and developing an inclusive environment where you can thrive and feel supported to realize your full potential. If you're looking to build a career in a place where people help one another deliver best-in-class care, apply today.
If you have questions about this role, please contact [email protected]

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