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First Assistant Jobs in Aurora, IL (NOW HIRING)

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First Assistant information

See Aurora, IL salary details

$32K

$131.3K

$188.4K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Aurora, IL is $131,304.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,800.00 and $177,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 role. Some positions may require specific certifications or training, and gaining experience through entry-level roles can help advance to a first assistant position.

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 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 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 cities near Aurora, IL are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities near Aurora, IL with the most First Assistant job openings:
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 $131,304 per year, or $63.1 per hour.

$31.03 - $57.72/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Our promise to you:

Joining UChicago Medicine AdventHealth is about being part of something bigger. It’s about belonging to a community that believes in the wholeness of each person, and serves to uplift others in body, mind and spirit. UChicago Medicine AdventHealth is a place where you can thrive professionally, and grow spiritually, by Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ. Where you will be valued for who you are and the unique experiences you bring to our purpose-minded team. All while understanding that together we are even better.

All the benefits and perks you need for you and your family:

  • Benefits from Day One: Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance

  • Paid Time Off from Day One

  • 403-B Retirement Plan

  • 4 Weeks 100% Paid Parental Leave

  • Career Development

  • Whole Person Well-being Resources

  • Mental Health Resources and Support

  • Pet Benefits

Schedule:

Part time

Shift:

Day (United States of America)

Address:

5101 WILLOW SPRINGS RD

City:

LA GRANGE

State:

Illinois

Postal Code:

60525

Job Description:

*Part-Time, 2 shifts per week Monday-Friday. Either 8 hours or 10 hour shifts. 

Utilizes physician preference cards to set up operating suites and updates cards as instructed. Determines appropriate surgical equipment and supplies based on physician preferences. Achieves temporary and permanent hemostasis using appropriate techniques. Assists with body plane closures, wound dressing applications, and securing drainage systems. Provides visualization for operative sites through tissue manipulation, retraction, sponging, suction, and irrigation. Handles instruments, supplies, and equipment during surgical procedures, anticipating needs of the surgeon. Assists with positioning patients, using stabilizing equipment, and prioritizing patient comfort and safety. Maintains strict aseptic technique and monitors team members to ensure no breaks in technique, including performing surgical hand scrubs and donning gowns and gloves. Performs instrument, sharps, and sponge counts with the circulator as needed. Participates in surgical site and patient verification during the time-out procedure, addressing any discrepancies or concerns. Measures and passes medications, hemostatic agents, and irrigation solutions during surgical procedures, following safe medication handling and labeling policies. Cleans and prepares instruments for terminal sterilization, ensuring point-of-use cleaning throughout the procedure and preparing instrumentation for transport to the decontamination area. Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Ability to prepare surgical suites with appropriate instruments, resources, and supplies based on surgeon preference cards [Required]
  • Knowledge of instruments, supplies, and equipment utilized for surgical procedures [Required]
  • Understanding of the procedures being performed and ability to anticipate the needs of the surgeon [Required]
  • Strong physician/surgeon relationship skills and team mentality [Required]
  • Up-to-date knowledge of patient rights and ability to respect cultural, psychosocial, and spiritual values [Required]
  • Up-to-date knowledge of applicable regulatory, compliance, and accreditation standards and requirements [Required]
  • Ability to communicate appropriately and effectively with patients and their family, hospital staff, nurses, physicians, and other health care professionals [Required]
  • Must be able to read, write and speak conversational English [Required]
  • Basic computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office [Required]
  • Previous first assistant experience related to the area of specialty [Preferred]
  • Knowledge of Anatomy [Preferred]
  • General knowledge of asepsis, healing, infectious disease process, surgical anatomy and physiology, safety issues, and operative techniques [Preferred]
  • Successful completion of an accredited Surgical Technology Course [Preferred]
  • Completion of Certified Surgical First Assisting Program [Preferred]


Education:

  • Associate [Preferred]
  • High School Grad or Equiv [Required]


Work Experience:

  • 2+ relevant work experience [Preferred]


Additional Information:
Preferred qualification for state of employment will be required.
Licenses and Certifications:

  • Basic Life Support - CPR Cert (BLS) [Required]
  •  NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) [Preferred] OR ABSA Surgical Assistant - Certified (SA-C) [Required]


Physical Requirements: (Please click the link below to view work requirements)
Physical Requirements - https://tinyurl.com/49cf4xnf

Pay Range:

$31.03 - $57.72

This facility is an equal opportunity employer and complies with federal, state and local anti-discrimination laws, regulations and ordinances.