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First Assistant information

See New Jersey salary details

$33K

$135.5K

$194.4K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in New Jersey is $135,485.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,100.00 and $183,200.00 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 New Jersey? The most popular types of First jobs in New Jersey are:
What cities in New Jersey are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in New Jersey with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in New Jersey as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,485 per year, or $65.1 per hour.

1st Assistant Engineer 1st Assistant Engineer

Delaware River and Bay Authority

Cape May, NJ • On-site

$107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

1ST ASSISTANT ENGINEER - Location: Cape May-Lewes Ferry, North Cape May, NJ


COMPENSATION: $51.66 per hour ($107,459 annualized)


BENEFITS OVERVIEW: https://drba.myben.site/


Why work at the Cape May - Lewes Ferry?: https://youtu.be/E7rc2xYkWdA


IMPORTANT: To be considered as an applicant for the position, you must apply online via the DRBA employment application for this position. You can accomplish this by copying and pasting the following Uniform Resource Locator (URL) into your web browser (Google Chrome or MS Edge preferred) that provides a direct link to the DRBA employment application for this position. If you are a New User, you can scroll down once you enter the location and create a personal username/password to complete the on-line application:

https://selfservice.drba.net/esslive/EmploymentOpportunities/ApplicationEntry.aspx?form=2&req=702&sreq=7&desc=1ST%20ASSISTANT%20ENGINEER%20-%20CAPE%20MAY%20LEWES%20FERRY,%20CAPE%20MAY,%20NJ


I. POSITION SUMMARY

The First Assistant Engineer has the responsibility of overseeing vessel equipment operation, making log entries, and reporting problems to the Chief Engineer. The First Assistant Engineer assists with the primary level maintenance and repair of the vessels while underway. The First Assistant Engineer is responsible to the Chief Engineer for engine room duties, to the Captain for emergency duties underway and to the delegated yard supervisor when working ashore. This is a safety sensitive position both underway and ashore. The First Assistant Engineer is responsible for following established safety practices while performing assigned duties to protect self, co-workers and the public from personal injury and to prevent damage to Authority property. The First Assistant Engineer will be required to abide by all rules and regulations for operating passenger vessels. This position is a bargaining unit position that is represented by the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA).


II. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES

  • Standing engine room watch and recording temperatures and pressures in the engine room logbook
  • Notifying Chief Engineer of any abnormalities in the operation of the machinery on the vessel
  • Accepting charge of lifeboat or life raft in an abandon ship situation
  • Pumping bilges and sewage, filling water, fuel and lubricant tanks, running main engines and/or generators and keeping vessel's machinery from freezing during lay up
  • Assisting with engine and electrical repairs as necessary
  • Keeping engine room neat and clean
  • Night engineer’s duties
  • May be required to attend shipyard with Port Engineer and act as his/her representative as needed at remote locations and may be for extended periods of time
  • Provides the highest level of customer service and professionalism to all internal and external customers
  • Completes projects as assigned by the Port Engineer


III. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Leadership ability
  • Ability to diagnose machinery malfunctions and recommend a course of corrective action
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints and machinery systems’ technical manuals
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships
  • Assorted power and hand tools and various instruments both mechanical and electrical
  • Ability to provide superior customer service to everyone by responding in a courteous and efficient manner


IV. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must have proof of U.S. Citizenship
  • Must be 21 years of age or older
  • High School Diploma or equivalent or equivalent related experience


V. LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

  • Valid U.S.C.G. 1st Assistant Engineer’s license for vessels 4,000 HP, Motor (Limited), OR Valid U.S.C.G. 2nd Assistant Engineer’s license for vessels 4,000 HP, Motor (Limited) and at least 300 days of sea service OR, Valid U.S.C.G. 3rd Assistant Engineer's license for vessels 4,000 HP, Motor (Limited) and at least 660 days of sea service
  • Must be able to obtain a Chief Engineer’s license within 120 days for vessels 4,000 HP, Motor (Limited)
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Valid driver's license
  • Preferred Requirement: Valid U.S.C.G. Chief Engineer’s license for vessels 4,000 HP, Motor (Limited).


VI. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Subject to drug test, background investigation, and pre-employment physical
  • Delaware River and Bay Authority requires all employees to have direct deposit with a financial institution or enroll in the payroll card program to receive their bi-weekly pay
  • Willing and available for duty at such hours, day or night, as may be required in order to maintain continuous operation of this facility
  • Will be subject to drug testing in accordance with applicable Federal Regulations ******************************************************************************

If you are interested in applying for this position please follow the instructions above at the start of this position description under "IMPORTANT". In addition, please attach a resume to the completed employment application.

The Delaware River and Bay Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Company Description

The Delaware River and Bay Authority, a bi-state government agency created by Compact in 1962 operates the Delaware Memorial Bridge—the world’s second longest twin span suspension bridge, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry System, and the Delaware City - Salem Ferry Crossing on the Delaware River, as well as five regional aviation facilities, including the Wilmington-Philadelphia Regional Airport located in New Castle, DE. Since its inception, the DRBA has successfully carried out its primary mission of providing vital transportation links between the states of Delaware and New Jersey.

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