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First Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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First Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33.5K

$137.5K

$197.3K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Chicago, IL is $137,474.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,700.00 and $185,900.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of First jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of First jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Chicago, 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 $137,474 per year, or $66.1 per hour.

Lincoln Park Center for Advanced Orthopedic Surgery - First Assistant

Regent Surgical

Chicago, IL • On-site

Per diem

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Job description

About Regent Surgical Health
Since 2001, Regent Surgical Health has been a leader in developing and managing successful surgery center partnerships between hospitals and physicians. We continually improve and evolve the ASC model based on changing market conditions to stay ahead of emerging trends. From this vantage point, our team has developed proprietary ASC ownership models that give both physicians and hospitals what they need to ensure long-term clinical and financial success.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The First Assistant (FA) serves as a member of the healthcare team and provides direct support to the surgeon during a surgical procedure by providing assistance with various tasks including preparing the surgical site, passing instruments, control bleeding, and handling tissues. The FA assumes appropriate responsibilities in the intraoperative area by scrubbing, closing incisions, assisting the RN circulator, setting up and breaking down surgical procedures, pulling and putting away supplies and equipment, and environmental service duties.
DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Prepare patient for surgery ensuring safe positioning.
  • Ensure proper supplies, equipment, and instruments are ready for use; maintain integrity of instruments.
  • Assist in gowning of other personnel and draping of patient.
  • Pass instruments to surgeon and/or assistant as appropriate.
  • Hold open incisions and provide wound exposure; control bleeding.
  • Handle and manipulate tissues; prepare and preserve specimens.
  • Suture and close incisions and apply dressing as needed.
  • Verify name, strength, and dosage of medication with circulator; confirm, label, and place on surgical field.
  • Knowledge of surgeon preferences, procedures, instrumentation, and equipment.
  • May operate sterilizer, lights, suction machine, and other designated equipment.
  • Follow the center exposure control plans/blood borne and airborne pathogens.
  • Report observed or suspected breaks in sterile technique and act according to policy.
  • Ensure proper counting of sponges, instruments, and sharps.
  • Communicate needs to circulators to ensure efficient and uninterrupted progress of procedure.
  • Clean and disinfect all tables, counter surfaces, stands, and floor.
  • Prepare cases for the next day.
  • Transport patients and restock the operating room.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
REQUIRED:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical First Assistant program
  • CSFA certification verified via NBSTSA
  • BLS certification (as required by individual ASC policy)

PREFERRED:
  • One year of current First Assistant experience in an OR setting.

Apply