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First Assistant Jobs in Bristol, TN (NOW HIRING)

Johnson City Medical Center

PA - Neurosurgery

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$96K - $130K/yr

First Assist in OR * Rotating call schedule with 15 other PA's at Level 1 Trauma Center * Employed * Current Practice: 5 full-time Neurosurgeons, 15 PA's * Predominantly Adult Population * Dedicated ...

TNAA TotalMed RN

Travel OR RN

Kingsport, TN · On-site

The right RN should have 1-2 years recent acute care experience as a circulating nurse, and/or scrub nurse, and potentially RN first assistant. Read below for more requirements. As an OR Travel Nurse ...

TNAA TotalMed RN

Travel OR RN

Johnson City, TN · On-site

The right RN should have 1-2 years recent acute care experience as a circulating nurse, and/or scrub nurse, and potentially RN first assistant. Read below for more requirements. As an OR Travel Nurse ...

TNAA TotalMed RN

Travel OR RN

Johnson City, TN · On-site

The right RN should have 1-2 years recent acute care experience as a circulating nurse, and/or scrub nurse, and potentially RN first assistant. Read below for more requirements. As an OR Travel Nurse ...

TNAA TotalMed RN

Travel OR RN

Abingdon, VA · On-site

The right RN should have 1-2 years recent acute care experience as a circulating nurse, and/or scrub nurse, and potentially RN first assistant. Read below for more requirements. As an OR Travel Nurse ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

At Aspen Dental, we put You First, offering the security and job stability that comes with working ... When you join our team as a Dental Assistant , you will have the opportunity to give back to ...

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First Assistant information

See Bristol, TN salary details

$31.6K

$129.6K

$186K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Bristol, TN is $129,622.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,300.00 and $175,300.00 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 Bristol, TN are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Bristol, TN with the most First Assistant job openings:

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Bristol, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,622 per year, or $62.3 per hour.

Certified Surgical First Assist (FT) 7a - 3:30p, Abingdon, VA

Abingdon, VA • On-site

Ballad Health
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 230 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

611th of 895 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about Ballad Healthexternal

$24.75 - $35.13/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
Summary:
The Surgical Technologist - First Assistant is responsible for providing safe and effective patient care. Functions in an organized manner and demonstrates good professional qualities. The Surgical Technologist - First Assistant must be flexible in duties and willing to work as an integral part of the Surgical Team. This position must have an awareness of cost and equipment management.
Under the general supervision of the Manager of Surgery, the Surgical Tech First Assistant performs in an expended role as a first assistant to the surgeon. He/she must function in a high stress area in an organized manner. Must be flexible with working hours and duties.
He/she demonstrates competency in the care of; neonate, infant, child adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients. He/she will be required to participate in daily Surgery procedures; i.e., scrub tech or first assistant as needed. Must have an awareness of the cost of supplies and manage equipment in the most effective method.
He/she will perform duties to assist the surgeon with the progression of the case in an appropriate manner to facilitate timely completion. This performance will be assessed by surgeons on an annual review with feedback to the Manager. First Assistant will retract tissue with appropriate technique, handle tissue appropriately to prevent tear or rupture, and follows suture for anastomosis as determined by the surgeon. Assists in performing closure of fascia; subcutaneous tissue and skin layers determined and supervised by the surgeon. He/she must complete a sponsored training course and receive certification of training, and be observed by appropriate educator for five (5) cases with surgeon's supervision. He/she will maintain hemostatsis in legs by use of ties, ligaclips or electrocautery, and perform appropriate wound closure according to patient's need. All performed duties will be observed and supervised by surgeons.
First Assistant will participate as an integral member of the Surgical Team, promoting and demonstrating collaborative team building practices. Assist with set-up of first cases and room turnover to facilitate efficient and timely case starts and provide the highest quality of care to open heart surgery patients.
Requirements:
Graduate of a CAAHEP approved course and maintain Surgical First Assistant Certification. Demonstrates all competencies required for the Surgical Tech level III. Demonstrates superior knowledge and practice of patient care techniques. Demonstrates superior knowledge of aseptic and surgical technique. Demonstrates superior knowledge and practice in the role of first scrub. Demonstrates advanced knowledge in two surgical specialty areas. Demonstrates a professional attitude. Demonstrates leadership ability.
Licenses and Certifications:
Valid and active surgical tech first assistant certification in appropriate state
BLS required
Work Requirements:
Shift: Day
On Call: No
Weekends: Rotating
Travel Required: No Travel
The range for this position is $24.75-$35.13. Actual rate is dependent upon experience.
Location:
Abingdon, VA
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About Ballad Health

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Become a part of the Ballad Health story. Together, we are transforming our region. We're making communities healthier. We're expanding access to critical services in rural areas.

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Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Johnson City, TN, US

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