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First Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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1st Assistant Superintendent

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Superintendent First Assistant at River Creek Club | Premier Country Club in Leesburg, VA Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the success ...

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 ...

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$32.2K

$132.3K

$189.9K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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.

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 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 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A First Assistant, such as an executive or personal assistant, can earn around $10,000 per month with extensive experience, strong organizational skills, and sometimes specialized knowledge. High-level assistants in corporate or entertainment industries may reach this income level, especially with overtime, bonuses, or working for high-net-worth clients.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

A First Assistant in certain industries, such as film or theater, can earn around $3,000 a month depending on experience and workload. Other roles like administrative assistants, sales representatives, or skilled trades workers may also reach this income level without a formal degree, often requiring on-the-job training or certifications. Income varies based on location, industry, and experience.

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 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

Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA)

UVA Health Northern VA & Culpeper

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Job Title Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA)
Job Code: SS1703
Full-time
$15,000 sign-on bonus for eligible candidates
ABOUT US
We are welcoming a new era in healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health (UVACH), we believe in caring for the whole person by getting to know - and making connections with - our patients. By combining the talent and expertise of our people, the breadth of capabilities across our system, and our commitment to helping our communities get better and stay healthy, we are improving the patient experience.
As a UVACH team member, you will have a voice in patient care decisions, support the most advanced medical technologies and feel a strong sense of satisfaction from making a difference in people's lives every day.
JOB TYPE
Classification: Non-Exempt
Supervises Positions: No
JOB SUMMARY
Description:
The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) is a perioperative registered nurse who functions in an expanded role to work collaboratively with the surgeon and the surgical team. The RNFA provides first-assist services during surgical procedures, performs perioperative nursing responsibilities, and ensures high-quality patient care throughout the surgical experience.
The RNFA practices under the RN scope of practice, Virginia Board of Nursing regulations, and facility policies, with documented RNFA training, competency, and surgeon delegation. This role integrates both circulating/scrub nursing responsibilities and technical first-assist duties.
Job Competencies:
First Assist Responsibilities
  • Provides first-assist duties including exposure, tissue handling, retraction, hemostasis, suturing, and wound management
  • Applies knowledge of instrumentation, anatomy, and sterile/aseptic technique
  • Independently scrubs and assists across specialties including, but not limited to Orthopedics, General, Robotics, Vascular, Gynecology, and Spine
  • Anticipates surgeon needs and ensures safe, efficient operative flow
  • Participates in preoperative planning with surgeons and the surgical team
  • Demonstrates knowledge and skills appropriate to the age and needs of the patient

Perioperative RN Responsibilities
  • Performs circulating nurse duties according to Operating Room standards and policies
  • Prepares the operating room with supplies, instruments, and equipment needed for the scheduled procedure
  • Supports anesthesia providers and ensures safe patient positioning
  • Monitors compliance with aseptic technique and safety protocols
  • Engages in preadmission, preoperative, and postoperative RN duties as applicable to Outpatient Surgery (Outpatient Surgery Center, Preadmission, Post-Anesthesia Care Unit)
  • Provides patient and family education regarding the perioperative process
  • Conducts nursing assessments and documents care in accordance with policy

Communication & Collaboration
  • Utilizes SBARQ and other structured communication tools
  • Coordinates patient care activities with physicians, anesthesia, surgical technologists, and perioperative staff
  • Maintains timely and accurate documentation
  • Communicates updates or issues to the leadership team and intra-operative staff

Patient Care & Advocacy
  • Acts as an advocate for patient rights, privacy, and dignity
  • Provides emotional support and individualized patient education
  • Develops and implements nursing plans of care tailored to patient needs
  • Ensures continuity of care across all perioperative phases

Quality, Safety & Competency
  • Follows departmental and organizational policies and guidelines.
  • Maintains, operates, and monitors equipment according to manufacturer and hospital standards.
  • Completes department-specific competency validation and ongoing training.
  • Participates in on-call rotation as assigned.

The incumbent may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
  • Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing required
  • Bachelor's Degree in Nursing required
  • Completion of an accredited RNFA program required

Experience:
  • Minimum two years of perioperative RN experience required
  • Experience as an RNFA preferred

Licensure:
  • Current RN license in the Commonwealth of Virginia
  • Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) certification required
  • RNFA certification or documented completion of RNFA program required
  • Refer to the Life Support Training policy for additional details

Additional Skills/Requirements Required:
  • Ability to independently scrub and first-assist across multiple specialties
  • Strong critical thinking, assessment, and decision-making abilities
  • Excellent communication, teamwork, and patient education skills
  • Ability to multitask, prioritize, and respond effectively in emergencies

Must meet all competency validations for perioperative RN and RNFA duties.
Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred:
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Physical Demand Code: Nursing 20A / Medical Tech 17A
Work Function/Activity: Medium to Heavy Physical Demand
  • Constant standing, frequent walking, bending/stooping
  • Ability to lift/push/pull up to 100 lbs. with assistance (Safe Handling Equipment required >35 lbs.)
  • Requires strong visual, auditory, and verbal communication abilities
  • Frequent repetitive motions and ability to maintain attention to detail

OTHER
  • May require the use of safety equipment, such as HEPA mask, for infection prevention: Yes
  • On call responsibilities as directed: Yes
  • Ability to travel between campus buildings, remote facilities, and out of town as needed: Yes

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