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First Assistant Jobs in Boyds, MD (NOW HIRING)

Inova Primary Care

Surgical First Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Inova Alexandria Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assistant in Labor and Delivery to join the team. This role will be FT and days may vary. Inova is consistently ranked a national ...

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First Assistant information

See Boyds, MD salary details

$32.9K

$135.3K

$194.1K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Boyds, MD is $135,271.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,100.00 and $183,000.00 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 Boyds, MD are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Boyds, MD with the most First Assistant job openings:

First Assistant jobs near you

Surgical First Assistant

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Inova Health System
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Inova Health Systemexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 261 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Long Description:
Inova Fairfax Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assistant to join the team. This role will be Full-time and days may vary.

Inova is consistently ranked a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.

  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.

  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.

  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.

  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, flexible work schedules.

Surgical 1st Assist Job Responsibilities:

  • Confirms procedure with surgeon and determines specific equipment needed per procedure by reviewing permit to confirm procedure and special needs.

  • Assists in setting up OR room. Make clinical decisions based on experience, patient population data, and observation in concert with the primary surgeon

  • Provides retraction of tissue and organs for optimal visualization with regard to tissue type and appropriate retraction instrument and /or technique. Assists in maintaining hemostasis by direct pressure, using and applying of appropriate surgical instrument for the task, placement or ties, placement of ligatures, applying chemical hemostatic agents, or other measures as directed by the surgeon. Uses the electrocautery mono and bi-polar at surgeons' direction, clamping, ligation, and cutting of tissue per surgeons' directive. Selects and applies wound dressing per surgeon's directive; applies splints, casts, and other specialty dressings under the direct supervision of the surgeon. Assists with resuscitation of patient during cardiac arrest or other life-threatening events in the operating room

  • May perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: Completion of Surgical First Assistant program through an accredited organization.
  • Experience: Minimum of 1 years as First Surgical Assistant
  • Certification: BLS from the American Heart Association
  • Licensure - Licensed Surgical Assistant Upon Start, must meet licensure criteria and be licensed as a Surgical Assistant in the Commonwealth of Virginia at the time of hire

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