ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

VHC Health

L&D OR First Assistant

Arlington, VA · On-site

Position Title L&D OR 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 under ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Washington

First Assistant information

See Washington salary details

$36.8K

$151.1K

$216.9K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Washington is $151,147.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $204,400.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of First jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Surgical First Assistant Certified

Surgical First Assistant Certified

HCA Healthcare

Ashburn, VA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

HCA Healthcare rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 2,177 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

627th of 864 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Experience the HCA Healthcare difference where colleagues are trusted, valued members of our healthcare team. Grow your career with an organization committed to delivering respectful, compassionate care, and where the unique and intrinsic worth of each individual is recognized. Submit your application for the opportunity below: Surgical First Assistant Certified 

Currently offering a sign-on bonus up to 10k.  

Job Summary and Qualifications

In this position you will:

  • Manage expectations of the department and surgeons
  • Provide a safe environment for the surgical patient during the perioperative experience. 
  • Utilize the principles of aseptic technique in creating and maintaining the sterile field. 
  • Plan and provide equipment and supplies based on patient and physician needs. 
  • Demonstrate competency in assisting surgeon as it relates to unit scope of care.
  • Provide assistance and education to the scrub if unfamiliar with procedure or surgeon preference.
  • Promote cost containment while delivering quality patient care within the operating room. 
  • Serve as a professional member of the surgical team.
  • Pursue own professional growth and development through continuing education, seminars and in-services. 
  • Always treat physicians and patients as customers, being mindful of time and place for airing complaints or issues. 
  • Maintain positive attitude and professional demeanor with surgeons, staff, patients and the management team. 
  • Demonstrate flexibility by working with OR management and surgical team to cover call and staffing needs.
  • Assists the staff with room preparation, turnover, and stocking of rooms and carts 
  • Exercise sound judgment and decision-making skills on behalf of patient, self and peers.
  • Adhere to hospital policies and procedures; supports the mission of the hospital. 
  • Demonstrate flexibility to perform other functions within Surgical Services to assist in the smooth operation of the department.
  • Maintain compliant in completion of mandatory annual educational requirements. 
  • Maintain all active licenses/certifications as required by law to practice profession. 
What qualifications you will need:
  • Basic Cardiac Life Support must be obtained within 30 days of employment start date
  • (SA) Surgical Assistant
  • (CSFA) Certified Surgical First Assistant
  • Certificate
Benefits

StoneSprings Hospital Center, offers a total rewards package that supports the health, life, career and retirement of our colleagues. The available plans and programs include:

  • Comprehensive benefits for medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, behavioral health and telemedicine services
  • Wellbeing support, including free counseling and referral services
  • Time away from work programs for paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence
  • Savings and retirement resources, including a 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service), Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships, retirement readiness tools, rollover support and financial wellbeing counseling
  • Education support through tuition assistance, student loan assistance, certification support, dependent scholarships and a partnership with Galen College of Nursing
  • Additional benefits for fertility and family building, adoption assistance, life insurance, supplemental health protection plans, auto and home insurance, legal counseling, identity theft protection and consumer discounts

Learn more about Employee Benefits

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location.

StoneSprings Hospital Center has provided quality healthcare services since 2015. We give patient's access to trained physicians and advanced technology. Our 120+ bed hospital is one of the region's leading acute care facilities in Loudoun County. Our medical services includes a full-service 24/7 Emergency Department, orthopedics, advanced heart and vascular care, extensive diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology capabilities, minimally invasive robotic surgery and maternal/child health.

At StoneSprings Hospital Center, our care like family culture extends to our patients, our people and our community. We are committed to each other because when we join together, our patients are cared for in the safest and most compassionate way.

HCA Healthcare has been recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by the Ethisphere Institute more than ten times. In recent years, HCA Healthcare spent an estimated $3.7 billion in cost for the delivery of charitable care, uninsured discounts, and other uncompensated expenses.


"There is so much good to do in the world and so many different ways to do it."- Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr.
HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

If you find this opportunity compelling, we encourage you to apply for our Surgical First Assistant Certified opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be directly contacted by a member of our team. We are interviewing - apply today!

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

What HCA Healthcare employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply