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First Assistant Jobs in Cleveland, OH (NOW HIRING)

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel CrossMed Job ID #79315882. Pay package is based on 8 ...

CVOR First Assist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 09/14/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 10 hours * Employment Type: Travel The right role can make all ...

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First Assistant information

See Cleveland, OH salary details

$31.5K

$129.5K

$185.8K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Cleveland, OH is $129,465.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,300.00 and $175,100.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of First jobs in Cleveland, OH?

The most popular types of First jobs in Cleveland, OH are:

What cities near Cleveland, OH are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Cleveland, OH with the most First Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Cleveland, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,465 per year, or $62.2 per hour.

Cardiac RN First Assist (RN)- Cardiac OR

University Hospitals

Cleveland, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


University Hospitals rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 626 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Serving at our health system's most advanced and complex cardiac surgery center, the UH Cleveland Medical First Assistant team performs a variety of state of the art surgeries and procedures giving our team a well-rounded experience in coronary, valve, transplant, robotic, and structural heart disease including hybrid structural and aortic interventions. Cardiac First Assistants support every cardiac surgery case across our system in and out of the operating room, including emergencies within the hospital and procedures in the cardiac cath lab. RNFA, Physician Assistant or Surgical Assist will be considered. Cardiac OR experience strongly preferred.
When you join UH, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, which includes, but is not limited to:
  • Competitive salary
  • Competitive hourly rate + $5.25 additional hourly incentive pay
  • $8,000 sign on bonus
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement and pension plans
  • Free parking for regular-status employees

A Brief Overview
The Cardiac RNFA I works under the direction and supervision of the attending physician to provide aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. Performs preoperative and postoperative duties to better facilitate the needs of the surgical patient during the perioperative period. RNFA I will primarily 2nd assist with occasional assignments in the 1st assist position within cardiac surgical cases. The RNFA I will cover regional call to support the Cardiac Surgery program across the system as well as covering call for Transplant, both donor and recipient, which requires the ability to travel in cars, ambulances, planes and helicopters.
What You Will Do
  • Applies the nursing process in all facets of the nurse first assistant role.
  • Displays knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the human body while delivering safe patient care.
  • Establishes and maintains a safe peri-operative environment.
  • Offers education development opportunities to nursing staff, students and any other appropriate persons in the specific surgery and patient management.
  • Utilizes ongoing data collection peri-operatively, and follow-up information to aid in research care studies that promote effectiveness and quality of patient care.

Additional Responsibilities
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • For specific duties and responsibilities, refer to documentation provided by the department during orientation.
  • Must abide by all requirements to safely and securely maintain Protected Health Information (PHI) for our patients. Annual training, the UH Code of Conduct and UH policies and procedures are in place to address appropriate use of PHI in the workplace.

Qualifications:
Education
  • (BSN) Bachelor's Degree in Nursing Graduation of approved RN Program (Required) and
  • Other Accredited Program: Completion of state approved RNFA course (Required)
Work Experience
  • less than 1 year Minimum of 6 months taking Second call for Cardiac Surgery service line (Required)
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • Must demonstrate proficiency in taking Second Call (Required proficiency)
  • Advanced Life Support Equipment knowledge (Required proficiency)
  • Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, proper use of all instruments and equipment used during CT surgery procedures. (Required proficiency)
  • High degree of hand/eye coordination and uniform mental attention. (Required proficiency)
Licenses and Certifications
  • Registered Nurse (RN), Ohio and/or Multi State Compact License (Required Upon Hire) and
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) (Preferred within 6 Months) and
  • Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) (Required) and
  • Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA) (Preferred)
  • RNFA registration with OBN (Required)
Physical Demands
  • Standing Frequently
  • Walking Frequently
  • Sitting Rarely
  • Lifting Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Carrying Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Pushing Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Pulling Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Climbing Occasionally up to 50 lbs
  • Balancing Occasionally
  • Stooping Frequently
  • Kneeling Frequently
  • Crouching Frequently
  • Crawling Occasionally
  • Reaching Frequently
  • Handling Frequently
  • Grasping Frequently
  • Feeling Constantly
  • Talking Constantly
  • Hearing Constantly
  • Repetitive Motions Constantly
  • Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination Constantly
Travel Requirements
  • 30% Travel to community hospitals to support cardiac surgery programs

What University Hospitals employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About University Hospitals

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

For more than 155 years, University Hospitals has been on a mission to heal, teach and discover. As a renowned academic medical center and community hospital network, we’ve expanded across Northeast Ohio to deliver what matters most to our patients: personalized, compassionate care; medical discovery and breakthroughs; and high-quality, affordable care close to home.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US

Year founded

1866