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First Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Medworks

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Richmond, VA · On-site

$93K - $102K/yr

About the Role Medworks is seeking a Certified Surgical First Assistant to support surgical procedures across hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers in the greater Richmond, VA area. This is a ...

Valley Health

DepartmentSURGICAL SERVICES - 206210Worker Sub TypeRegularWork Shift Pay Grade The Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) is an allied health professional who works under the supervision of a ...

VHC Health

OR Surgical First Assistant

Arlington, VA · On-site

Position Title OR Surgical First Assistant Purpose & Scope: The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished ...

Meda Health, LLC

Surg Tech - First Assist

Richmond, VA

$1.9K/wk

Details Client Name Henrico Doctors' Hospital Job Type Travel Offering Allied Profession Surg Tech Specialty First Assist Job ID 18517833 Job Title Surg Tech - First Assist Weekly Pay $1934.0 Shift ...

TRS Healthcare

Travel First Assist Technician

Richmond, VA

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

First Assist Technician * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel TRS Healthcare Job ID ...

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All JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Virginia

First Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$32.2K

$132.3K

$189.9K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Virginia is $132,307.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,200.00 and $179,000.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of First jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of First jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Certified First Assistant - Full Time

Certified First Assistant - Full Time

Valley Health

Winchester, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Department
SURGICAL SERVICES - 206210Worker Sub Type
RegularWork Shift
Pay Grade
Job Description
The Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) is an allied health professional who works under the supervision of a surgeon to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive surgical procedures, ensuring that the operating room environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety. They possess expertise in the theory and application of sterile and aseptic technique and combine the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tools and technologies to facilitate a physician's performance of invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.
Education
Graduate of an accredited surgical technology course or certified surgical assistant
Experience
Five years CST experience required (10,400 hours) or evidence of two years of experience functioning in a first assist role
Certification & Licensures
If working in Virginia, Virginia State license required prior to the start of employment.
Certified by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) required. Certified by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or the American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Completion of approved first assistant program or completion of an approved program within 24 months of hire date required.
All Certified Surgical First Assistants must be credentialed to work at the hospital where their work is performed.
BLS Certification (Basic Life Support) - American Heart 'Healthcare Provider' (HCP) - AHA approved required. New hires must have American Heart Association (AHA) appropriate certification prior to completion of orientation.
Qualifications
Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span, possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed in order to provide care for the age group of patients served.
Demonstrates ability to provide exposure, hemostasis and other technical functions that help the surgeon carryout a safe operation with optimal results for the patient.
Demonstrates ability to perform diversified roles, services or functions.
Benefits
At Valley Health, we believe everyone is a caregiver, and our goal is to create an environment where our caregivers thrive physically, financially, and emotionally. In addition to a competitive salary, our most popular benefits for full-time employees include:
  • A Zero-Deductible Health Plan
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Retirement Savings Match
  • A Robust Employee Assistance Program to help with many aspects of emotional wellbeing
  • Membership to Healthy U: An Incentive-Based Wellness Program

Valley Health also offers a health savings account & flexible spending account for childcare, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, and professional development. In addition, several perks come with working for the largest employer in the region, such as discounts to on-campus dining, and more.
To see the full scale of what we offer, visit valleyhealthbenefits.com.
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About Valley Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Valley Health System is a not-for-profit network of hospitals, urgent cares, physician practices, and services. Expanding across Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland, we are devoted to the health of all who call our 18-county area home. A vital resource for healthcare, we are the region's largest employer, a dependable community partner, and are at the leading edge of clinical innovations.x

Industry

Health and personal care stores

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Winchester, VA, US

Year founded

1993

Social media

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