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First Assistant Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

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First Assistant information

See Missouri salary details

$30.5K

$125.2K

$179.6K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Missouri is $125,178.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $169,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a first assistant?

To become a first assistant, candidates typically 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, and on-the-job experience is highly valued. Developing a good understanding of the job's responsibilities and building professional relationships can also help advance to this position.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

First Assistants in film and television production can earn around $2,000 or more per day, especially for high-profile projects or with extensive experience. Such roles often require specialized skills, industry connections, and the ability to work long hours on set. Other high-paying freelance or consulting roles in finance, law, or executive management can also reach this daily rate, but they typically require advanced qualifications and significant expertise.

How much do first assistants make per hour?

First assistants typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often work in fast-paced environments and may require strong organizational skills and familiarity with office tools.

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 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 lead professionals. They handle tasks such as coordinating schedules, managing equipment, and assisting with technical or logistical needs to ensure smooth operations. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of industry tools are essential for this role.
What cities in Missouri are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most First Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Missouri as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,178 per year, or $60.2 per hour.
Registered Nurse First Assist

Registered Nurse First Assist

BJC HealthCare

Saint Louis, MO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


BJC Healthcare rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 219 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

187th of 874 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Additional Information About the Role

Missouri Baptist Medical Center

Registered Nurse First Assist

    • CNOR required 
    • Option to work 10 or 12 hour shifts 
    • Start time 630A
    • Cases-general, ortho, robotics, GYN, vascular, neuro, spine 
    • 23 Operating Rooms  
    • Rate of pay may exceed maximum listed
    • Bonus eligible
    • Comprehensive benefits
  • The BJC Registered Nurse Career Ladder differentiates BJC as the place for nurses to work in the greater St. Louis area. 
  • This is a tool to empower nurses to work at the top of their license and own their career progression.
  • The BJC RN Career Ladder promotes professional development, leadership, collaboration, education and service excellence and gives staff the opportunity to continue doing what they do best - caring for patients - while having the opportunity to advance to the next step in their career.
  • Moves to higher ladder levels will result in a percentage increase of current pay that aligns with the new job description.

Overview

Missouri Baptist Medical Center, an acute care hospital in St. Louis County, offers a full continuum of medical and surgical services, including heart care, cancer, women and infants, breast health, gastrointestinal, orthopedic, stroke, therapy, wound and pain management services. The hospital has a 24-hour adult emergency department and cares for pediatric patients at a separate emergency department in collaboration with St. Louis Children’s Hospital. 

Missouri Baptist is the first and only hospital in St. Louis County to be named a Magnet® hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The prestigious designation is the highest credential a health care organization can receive for nursing excellence and quality patient care. This recognition has been accomplished by less than nine percent of hospitals nationwide. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report ranked the hospital #2 in the St. Louis metro area.

Missouri Baptist Medical Center's Surgical Services department consists of 22 ORs which include three heart team rooms and the da Vinci robotic surgical system.


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

    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
  • Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

    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