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First Assistant Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Northern Light Health

First Assistant/RN

Ellsworth, ME · On-site

First Assistant/RN - 91691 Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital | Ellsworth | Surgical Services | Full Time Salary range- 39.51-61.04 USD Description The compensation range listed reflects the range ...

Triage Staffing

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Portland, ME · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel Travel Nursing: Registered Nurse First Assistant Portland ...

Northern Light Health

First Assistant/RN

Ellsworth, ME · On-site

$39.51 - $61.04/hr

To carry out the functions that will assist the surgeon in performing a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. The RNFA practices peri-operative nursing and is therefore responsible for ...

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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 Aug 19, 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 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 Maine?

The most popular types of First jobs in Maine are:

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,207 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

Maine Medical Center

Portland, ME • On-site

$34.35 - $46.46/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Maine Medical Center rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

552nd of 1,060 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

MaineHealth is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where care team members can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve across Maine and New Hampshire. We offer competitive benefits including paid parental leave, flexible work options, student loan assistance, professional development opportunities, and well-being resources-so you can grow your career while feeling supported both personally and professionally.
We recognize the value each team member brings to our organization. Any offer of employment will depend on qualifications such as skills, relevant experience, education, certifications, and other job-related factors. The base range is an estimate and does not reflect the full value of our total compensation package.
The pay range for this position is $34.35 to $46.46 per hour.
Compensation for part-time positions is determined on a prorated basis consistent with the scheduled hours and applicable full-time equivalent (FTE).
In addition to base pay, MaineHealth offers comprehensive benefits, recognition programs, career growth opportunities, and, where applicable, shift differentials or other incentives.
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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