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First Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Friendly Nursing Home

CNA 1st shift

Woonsocket, RI

$20 - $24/hr

We are looking for 1st shift skilled CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistant) to become a part of our facility's compassionate care-giving team. The CNA will interact directly with patients, providing ...

Friendly Nursing Home

CNA 1st shift

Woonsocket, RI

$20 - $24/hr

We are looking for 1st shift skilled CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistant) to become a part of our facility's compassionate care-giving team. The CNA will interact directly with patients, providing ...

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Full Time CNA - 1st Shift

Middletown, RI

We are looking for a compassionate CNA to join our team! As a Certified Nursing Assistant, your main role will be to deliver care to our residents within a warm, comfortable, and home-like ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

First Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$31.8K

$130.7K

$187.5K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Rhode Island is $130,690.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $176,800.00 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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of First jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,690 per year, or $62.8 per hour.

Inpatient Surgical Physician Assistant (PA) - Kent Hospital

VNA of Care New England

Warwick, RI • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Inpatient Surgical Physician Assistant

Care New England is seeking an inpatient surgical Physician Assistant to join our growing team of surgeons and physician assistants at Kent Hospital in Warwick, Rhode Island.

Schedule: Three 12-hour shifts per week (6a – 6p, 6p – 6a) with possibility of one 12-hour or one 24-hour shifts.

Rotational weekend and holiday shifts

Enjoy working in general, bariatric, colorectal, vascular and thoracic surgery

Job responsibilities include, OR 1st assist and inpatient management, admissions, discharges, consults & daily rounding

Bedside procedures include NG tube placement, wound vac changes and I&D of abscesses

The primary work location will be Kent Hospital, with occasional assignments at Women & Infants Hospital based on scheduling needs.

Requirements:

  • Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program.
  • Certified by NCCPA.
  • Active Rhode Island PA, CSR, and DEA license or eligible.
  • OR 1st assist experience a plus

About Us:

Care New England Health System (CNE) and its member institutions, Butler Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, Kent Hospital, VNA of Care New England, Integra, The Providence Center, and Care New England Medical Group, is a trusted, integrated health care organization that fuels the latest advances in medical research, attracts the nation's top specialty-trained doctors, hones renowned services and innovative programs, and engages in the important discussions people need to have about their health and end-of-life wishes. Care New England is helping to transform the future of health care, providing a leading voice in the ongoing effort to ensure the health of the individuals and communities we serve.

About Kent Hospital Kent Hospital serves the 300,000 residents in communities west of Providence. We are the largest community hospital in Rhode Island with just over 350 beds. Teaching affiliations with the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and the New England College of Osteopathic Medicine provide teaching opportunities with medical students and residents

About Women & Infants Hospital Women & Infants Hospital is a nationally recognized leader in women's and newborn care, home to one of the country's largest obstetrical services and single-family NICUs, performing nearly 9,000 births and 7,000 surgeries annually. A regional destination for infertility, gynecologic and breast cancer care, high-risk obstetrics, pelvic floor disorders, postpartum depression, and complex GI-related women's health. Life in Rhode Island – the "Ocean State" Four seasons, coastal beauty, a dynamic dining, arts & culture scene, a convenient, award winning international airport, top colleges and universities, all within a 1 hour drive to Boston and 3 hours to NYC.

EEO Statements:

Americans with Disability Act Statement: External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled must be able to perform the essential job-specific functions either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation, to be determined by the organization on a case-by-case basis.

EEOC Statement: Care New England is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status

Ethics Statement: Employee conducts himself/herself consistent with the ethical standards of the organization including, but not limited to hospital policy, mission, vision, and values.

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