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First Assistant Jobs in Aurora, IL (NOW HIRING)

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First Assistant information

See Aurora, IL salary details

$32.2K

$132.3K

$189.9K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Aurora, IL is $132,308.00, 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 is a first assistant?

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 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 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.

How do I become a first assistant?

To become a first assistant, typically you 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, depending on the industry standards. Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions can also be beneficial.

How much do first assistants make?

First assistants in Florida typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often require strong organizational skills and proficiency with office tools to perform their duties effectively.

What cities near Aurora, IL are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Aurora, IL with the most First Assistant job openings:

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Aurora, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,382 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

SURGICAL FIRST ASSISTANT

Chicago, IL • On-site

INSIGHT HEALTH SYSTEMS, INC.
See more jobs at INSIGHT HEALTH SYSTEMS, INC.external

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Surgical First Assist Position

The Surgical First Assist (SFA) is a highly skilled, clinically proficient professional who works directly under the supervision of the attending surgeon to provide advanced intraoperative support. This role extends beyond traditional assisting — it requires a forward-thinking mindset focused on innovation, efficiency, and collaboration across the surgical continuum. The SFA serves as a key resource in developing and implementing process improvements, integrating new technologies, and advancing surgical outcomes. Clinical skills performed under direct supervision of the surgeon include but are not limited to: incision, dissection, clamping, cutting, tying, providing hemostasis, insertion of laparoscopic ports, and closure of body planes & skin. The SFA collaborates closely with all surgical team members to facilitate through-put and optimize safe patient care. They may function in the scrub role for a variety of surgical procedures as needed.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Excellence & Intraoperative Support

  • Performs all functions of a Surgical First Assist including exposure, hemostasis, suturing, tissue handling, and wound closure under the surgeon's direction.
  • Anticipates surgeon needs throughout each procedure, ensuring instruments, supplies, and devices are ready for immediate use.
  • Maintains sterile technique and ensures patient safety and positioning integrity at all times.
  • Proactively identifies opportunities to improve case efficiency and instrument utilization.

Innovation & Process Improvement

  • Collaborates with surgical leadership and vendors to trial new technologies, instruments, and minimally invasive techniques.
  • Participates in multidisciplinary performance improvement initiatives, including reduction of turnover times, standardization of instrument trays, and cost-efficiency efforts.
  • Contributes to digital documentation workflows, assisting in implementing systems that optimize case tracking, inventory, and data analytics.
  • Provides feedback on new devices or methods that enhance precision and patient outcomes.

Education, Mentorship & Leadership

  • Serves as a clinical mentor to surgical technologists, residents, and nursing staff.
  • Participates in orientation and education of new team members and cross-trained staff.
  • Engages in continuing education to stay current on advancements in surgical techniques and perioperative best practices.
  • Promotes a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and patient-centered innovation.

Collaboration & Teamwork

  • Partners with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and perioperative staff to coordinate and execute high-quality surgical care.
  • Assists in the preparation for surgical cases, assuring that supplies, equipment and instruments are available and in working order prior to the start of each case.
  • Assists the surgical team in the transport, transfer and positioning of patients in the operating room.
  • Participates in pre-op briefings and post-op debriefings to evaluate case flow and identify improvement opportunities.
  • Assists in maintaining supply and equipment inventory.
  • Communicates proactively and professionally across the care team to ensure seamless patient experiences.
  • On-call duties as scheduled.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Qualifications

  • Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA), Certified First Assistant (CFA), or Physician Assistant (PA-C) / RNFA credential required.
  • Minimum 3–5 years of surgical experience; advanced proficiency in multiple specialties preferred (e.g., Orthopedic, Neurosurgery, General, or Robotics).
  • Strong understanding of sterile technique, surgical instrumentation, and anatomy.
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate technology and process improvement into practice.
  • Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and interpersonal communication skills.

Preferred Attributes

  • Passionate about surgical innovation, data-driven improvement, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • Actively participates in surgical committees, vendor evaluations, or technology trials.
  • Forward-thinking, self-directed, and capable of balancing clinical precision with creativity.
  • Experienced in EMR documentation, efficiency dashboards, or digital workflow initiatives.
Performance Metrics

Case efficiency and surgeon satisfaction scores. Reduction in intraoperative delays and supply waste. Participation in innovation or quality improvement projects. Contribution to staff development and cross-training success rates.

Education and Experience

Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA), Certified First Assistant (CFA), or Physician Assistant (PA-C) / RNFA credential required. Minimum 3–5 years of surgical experience; advanced proficiency in multiple specialties preferred (e.g., Orthopedic, Neurosurgery, General, or Robotics).

Benefits
  • Paid Sick Time - effective 90 days after employment
  • Paid Vacation Time - effective 90 days after employment
  • Health, vision & dental benefits - eligible at 30 days, following the 1st of the following month
  • Short and long-term disability and basic life insurance - after 30 days of employment

Insight employees are required to be vaccinated for COVID-19 as a condition of employment, subject to accommodation for medical or sincerely held religious beliefs. Insight is an equal opportunity employer and values workplace diversity!

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