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First Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Sparrow Health System

RN FIRST ASST CERT

Lansing, MI · On-site

Job Opportunity Job ID:51676 First Assist RN Certified Description: Positions Location: Lansing, MI The registered Nurse First Assistant provides professional nursing services guided by the ...

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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 Jul 13, 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 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 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's the easiest hospital job to get?

The easiest hospital job to get is often a patient transporter or hospital aide, which typically requires minimal formal education and on-the-job training. These roles usually have high turnover and may not require certifications, making them accessible entry-level positions in healthcare settings.

How much do first assistants make per hour?

First assistants typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often work in fast-paced environments and may require skills in organization and communication.

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.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and advanced healthcare facilities, such as metropolitan areas or states with strong medical industries. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of surgeries also influence earning potential, with those working in specialized or high-demand surgical fields typically earning more.

What does a first assistant do?

A first assistant is a key member of a production team, often in film or theater, responsible for supporting the director or producer by managing schedules, coordinating communication, and assisting with logistical tasks. They may also handle administrative duties, oversee daily operations, and ensure the smooth flow of the project. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of production processes are essential for this role.
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
Registered Nurse - First Assistant - Operating Room - 20 hours - Day Shift

Registered Nurse - First Assistant - Operating Room - 20 hours - Day Shift

Henry Ford Health System

Novi, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Henry Ford Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 551 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

411th of 882 rated healthcare providers

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY:
  • Provide direct assistance to surgeons before, during and after surgical procedures.
  • Position patient to give best exposure for surgical procedure, using stabilizing equipment, when necessary, while maximizing patient comfort and safety.
  • Implement physicians' orders to provide visualization of the operative site using appropriate methods, including manipulation of tissue and materials, retraction, sponging, suctioning and irrigation.
  • Utilize appropriate techniques to achieve temporary and permanent hemostasis.
  • Assist with body plane closure, application of wound dressings and securing of drainage systems.

POSITION SUMMARY:
  • Henry Ford Providence Hospital - Novi
  • Day Shift
  • Call required

Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital is a 277-bed facility offering advanced specialty care spanning cardiology, oncology, neuroscience, orthopedics, women's services, and more, including treatment at its comprehensive stroke center and Level II trauma center.
The hospital provides leading-edge treatments and technologies to address the diverse healthcare needs of the local community.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
  • Diploma from an accredited school/college of nursing OR required professional licensure at time of hire.

CERTIFICATION/LICENSURES REQUIRED:
  • Registered Nurse credentialed from the Michigan Board of Nursing obtained prior to hire date or job transfer date required.
  • One or more of the following required:
    • Advanced Life Support obtained within 6 Months (180 days) of hire date or job transfer date required. American Heart Association or American Red Cross accepted.
    • BLS Provider obtained within 1 Month (30 days) of hire date or job transfer date required. American Heart Association or American Red Cross accepted.
  • Certified Registered Nurse specializing in Operating Room credentialed from the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI) preferred.
  • Certified Registered Nurse specializing in First Assistant credentialed from the National Assistant at Surgery Certification preferred.
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred. American Heart Association or American Red Cross accepted.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Graduate of an RN First Assist Program
  • 1 year of First Assist experience

What Henry Ford Health employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Henry Ford Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Henry Ford Health provides a full continuum of services from Primary and Preventative care, to Complex and Cpecialty care, Health Insurance, a full suite of home health offerings, Virtual care, Pharmacy, Eye care and other Healthcare retail. It is one of the Nation’s leading Academic Medical Centers, recognized for Clinical excellence in Cancer care, Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, Neurology and Neurosurgery, Orthopedics and Sports medicine, and Multi organ transplants. Consistently ranked among the top five NIH funded institutions in Michigan, Henry Ford Health engages in more than 2,000 research projects annually. Equally committed to educating the next generation of Health Professionals, Henry Ford Health trains more than 4,000 Medical students, Residents and fellows every year across 50+ accredited programs. With more than 33,000 valued team members, Henry Ford Health is also among Michigan’s largest and most Diverse employers, including nearly 6,000 physicians and researchers from the Henry Ford Medical Group, Henry Ford Physician Network and Jackson Health Network.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1915

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