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First Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Corewell Health

Surgical First Assist

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

Scope of work The Surgical Techhnologist First Assistant (STFA) possessing advanced knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and utilizing extensive patient assessment skills, collaborates with all ...

ILLUUM COSMETIC SURGERY

OR FIRST ASSIST

Novi, MI

EducationCurrent Michigan RN license, BSN preferredRegistered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) and/or Certified Surgical Tech First Assist (CSTFA)Must currently be RNFA certified or obtain your RNFA ...

Invited

1st Assistant Superintendent

Dearborn, MI

Superintendent First Assistant at TPC Michigan | Dearborn, MI | Invited Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the success of the business?

ClubCorp

1st Assistant Superintendent

Dearborn, MI · On-site

Superintendent First Assistant at TPC Michigan | Dearborn, MI | Invited Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the success of the business?

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First Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$28.3K

$116.3K

$166.9K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Michigan is $116,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,300.00 and $157,300.00 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 Michigan?

The most popular types of First jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most First Assistant job openings:

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,315 per year, or $55.9 per hour.

Surgical First Assist

Corewell Health

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Corewell Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 778 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

414th of 893 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Corewell Health is offering up to $10,000 as a sign on bonus for this opportunity!
About this unit
The Corewell Health Butterworth OR department is a level 1 trauma center. The department consists of twenty-one (21) operating rooms that operate 24/7 including supporting other surgical services departments related to IMRI and pediatric areas. The surgical team covers multiple specialties with a focus on trauma, orthopedic trauma, acute care surgery and neurological trauma. Our interdisciplinary team of anesthesia providers, physicians, nurses, surgical technicians, and support technicians offer a high level of expertise and patient care. We also support a high level of technology including the DaVinci, Rosa, and Stealth robotic equipment. The environment offers a strong team atmosphere with comprehensive technology for safe and efficient patient care.
About Butterworth Hospital
Right in the heart of Grand Rapids, you'll find a nationally recognized hospital for patient quality and safety and the regional leader in full-service hospitals. Since 1873, we have been growing and building a reputation of excellence in care, diagnostics, treatment, prevention, and education. It is the flagship hospital for Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospitals.
Scope of work
The Surgical Techhnologist First Assistant (STFA) possessing advanced knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and utilizing extensive patient assessment skills, collaborates with all health team members to ensure the most optimal patient outcome. Performs all activities at and expanded level of surgical technician practice executed with the contest of the nursing process. Intraoperatively, the STFA actively assists the surgeon, performing observable, technical behaviors (cognitive, psychomotor, and affective). Intra-operatively, actively and independently (the intern is under supervision of a preceptor), assists the surgeon, performing observable, technical behaviors, included but not limited to patient positioning, skin preparation, tissue handling, wound exposure, hemostatis, manipulating surgical instruments and wound closure. The intern is under the supervision of a surgeon/preceptor and will work towards independence by completing all STFA competencies.
Qualifications
  • Required Associate's Degree in Surgical Technology or equivalent (Successful Completion of an Accredited School of Surgical Technology. Not all schools involve an Associate's degree.)
  • Successfully complete a certification STFA course, which addresses both didactic knowledge and technical skills. The STFA course curriculum is based on recognized core curriculum for the ST First Assistant in which a certificate is awarded. Required
  • CRT-Surgical First Assistant, Certified (CSFA) - NBSTSA National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Upon Hire required
  • 3 years of relevant experience within a surgical services nursing department Required
  • AHA OR ARC Basic Life Support (BLS) within 90 Days of hire Required
  • CRT-Surgical Technologist, Certified (CST) - AST Association of Surgical Technologist Upon Hire required

OR
  • CRT-Surgical Technologist, Certified (CST) - NBSTSA National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Upon Hire required

OR
  • CRT-Surgical Technologist, Certified (CST) - ABSA American Board of Surgical Assistants Upon Hire required
  • CRT-Adv Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) - AHA American Heart Association Upon Hire preferred

How Corewell Health cares for you
  • Comprehensive benefits package to meet your financial, health, and work/life balance goals. Learn more here.
  • On-demand pay program powered by Payactiv
  • Discounts directory with deals on the things that matter to you, like restaurants, phone plans, spas, and more!
  • Optional identity theft protection, home and auto insurance
  • Traditional and Roth retirement options with service contribution and match savings
  • Eligibility for benefits is determined by employment type and status

Primary Location
SITE - Butterworth Hospital - 100 Michigan St NE - Grand Rapids
Department Name
Operating Room Butterworth - Grand Rapids Hosp
Employment Type
Full time
Shift
Day (United States of America)
Weekly Scheduled Hours
40
Hours of Work
0700-1730
Days Worked
M-F
Weekend Frequency
On-call weekends
CURRENT COREWELL HEALTH TEAM MEMBERS - Please apply through Find Jobs from your Workday team member account. This career site is for Non-Corewell Health team members only.
Corewell Health is committed to providing a safe environment for our team members, patients, visitors, and community. We require a drug-free workplace and require team members to comply with the MMR, Varicella, Tdap, and Influenza vaccine requirement if in an on-site or hybrid workplace category. We are committed to supporting prospective team members who require reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application process, to perform the essential functions of a job, or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment due to a disability, pregnancy, or sincerely held religious belief.
Corewell Health grants equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, genetic information, marital status, height, weight, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other legally protected category.
An interconnected, collaborative culture where all are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work, is vital to the health of our organization. As a health system, we advocate for equity as we care for our patients, our communities, and each other. From workshops that develop cultural intelligence, to our inclusion resource groups for people to find community and empowerment at work, we are dedicated to ongoing resources that advance our values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. We invite those that share in our commitment to join our team.
You may request assistance in completing the application process by calling 616.486.7447.

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