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First Assistant Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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First Assistant information

See Wisconsin salary details

$32.8K

$134.7K

$193.3K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Wisconsin is $134,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,900.00 and $182,200.00 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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of First jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Wisconsin as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,700 per year, or $64.8 per hour.

Organ and Tissue Donation First Assistant

UWHealth

Madison, WI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Work Schedule: 
1.0 FTE, eight hour shifts day/evening/night.  Daytime hours are Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 4:30PM. Call coverage required, up to 15 days per month and includes two weekends per month. Hours may vary based on the operational needs of the department.

Pay:

  • Additional components of compensation may include: 
    • Evening and night shift differential
    • Weekend differential
    • On-call pay

Be part of something remarkable

Go beyond the everyday surgical routine. Become the critical bridge between an organ and tissue donor's incredible gift and a recipient's second chance at life.
 

We are seeking an Organ Recovery First Assistant to:

  • Scrub in and directly assist the surgeon or practitioner in the operating room (OR)
  • Prepare the surgical field, open vital equipment, and ensure perfect sterile techniques
  • Manage the safe preservation of organs - including kidneys, pancreas, livers, hearts, and lungs
  • Close incisions, assist OR staff with post-recovery care
  • Package and deliver organs securely in a high-stakes chain of custody to transplant centers

At UW Health, you will have:

  • An excellent benefits package, including health and dental insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, two-week paid parental leave and adoption assistance.
  • Options for a variety of schedules and shifts that offer flexibility and allow for work-life balance.
  • Access to great resources through the UW Health Employee Wellbeing Department that supports your emotional, financial, and physical well-being.
  • Tuition benefits eligibility - UW Health invests in your professional growth by helping pay for coursework associated with career advancement.
  • The opportunity to earn a referral bonus for referring friends, former colleagues or others to apply for open, posted positions.

Qualifications

  • Post-secondary education in the field of surgical technology, surgical assistant, health sciences or applied sciences Required
  • Two (2) years of relevant clinical and surgical experience may be considered in lieu of degree in addition to the required experience below.

Work Experience

  • 3 years of relevant surgical working experience Required

Licenses & Certifications

  • CST/FA, SRC/FA, SFA Preferred

Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging

UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates belonging for everyone and is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member brings to work each day. It is the policy of UW Health to provide equal opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.


 

University Hospital in Madison is a Magnet-designated facility that's ranked Wisconsin's #1 hospital and considered one of the nation's leading hospitals, teaching institutions and referral centers.

UW Health Science Drive Medical Center - on Madison's west side, is an 84,000-square foot facility housing physician and rehabilitation professionals in Cardiology, Integrative Medicine, Orthopedics, Radiology, Spine and Sports Medicine. Our Fitness Center provides a resource for both working with patients while under our care and providing education after discharge. This environment creates many opportunities for face-to-face collaboration in the care of our patients.

Job Description


 

UW Hospital and Clinics benefits

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