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First Assistant Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

VHC Health

Surgical Assistant/OR First Assist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$45.18 - $73.17/hr

Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred. Experience: Three years of operating room experience is preferred. Certification/Licensure: Licensed Surgical Assistant by the ...

CT Assist

CVOR PA, locums

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$115 - $135/hr

* CVOR Physician Assistant * 5+ years EVH and first assist experience * 4 10-12 hour days * OR Only * Rotating Call * Duration: 6 months * Summer Start * Virginia * Must have 5 or more years of ...

VHC Health

L&D OR First Assistant

Arlington, VA · On-site

$45.18 - $73.17/hr

Position Title L&D OR First Assistant Purpose & Scope: The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under ...

VHC Health

L&D OR First Assistant

Arlington, VA

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Position TitleL&D OR First Assistant Purpose & Scope: The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under ...

CT Assist

CVOR NP, locums

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$115 - $135/hr

* CVOR Nurse Practitioner * 5+ years EVH and first assist experience * 4 10-12 hour days * OR Only * Rotating Call * Duration: 6 months * Summer Start * Virginia * Must have 5 or more years of ...

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All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Columbia, MD

First Assistant information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$32.6K

$134K

$192.2K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Columbia, MD is $133,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,700.00 and $181,200.00 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 Columbia, MD are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

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

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Columbia, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,955 per year, or $64.4 per hour.

Travel CVOR First Assist

VyTalent Solutions

Washington, DC • On-site

$500/wk

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

VyTalent Solutions is seeking a travel CVOR First Assist for a travel job in Washington, District of Columbia.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: CVOR First Assist
  • Discipline: Allied Health Professional
  • Start Date: 09/14/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel

The right role can make all the difference in your career. At VyTalent Solutions, we support healthcare professionals with opportunities designed to meet today’s workforce needs. We’re currently looking for a CVOR Tech for a Hospital contract.

Job Details:
Job Title: CVOR Tech Surgical Services
Location: Washington, DC
Setting: Hospital
Pay Range: 2048.67 - 2151.10
Schedule: 11:00 - 23:30
Contract Length: 13 weeks
Candidate Type: Traveler
Requirements: - BLS - 2 Years of Experience: Aseptic Technique, Case Cart, Cardiac and Vascular surgical cases; Crash Cart, XI Robotics Experience and general surgery, Ortho, Ortho/spine, Otrho/joints, Urology, Endo, Thoracic, Neuro, Gyn, Neuro/Spine, Bariatrics, Ophthalmology, Plastics, Podiatry, ENT, and Transplant cases experience preferred - completion of 1 prior travel assignment
Responsibilities:

  • Assist in cardiac and vascular surgical procedures within a hospital setting
  • Ensure aseptic techniques are maintained during surgeries
  • Manage surgical case carts and equipment efficiently
  • Support robotic and general surgery teams
  • Adhere to shift schedules including on-call, weekend, and holiday requirements

Why Choose VyTalent Solutions?
At VyTalent Solutions, support starts with benefits that work for you, an uncapped referral program, and a recruiter who’s with you every step of the assignment.

Equal Opportunity Employer
VyTalent Solutions is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, or any other non-merit factor.

American Medical Staffing Job ID #105378. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: CVOR Surgical Assistant

About VyTalent Solutions

At VyTalent Solutions, we believe your career should move you forward. Whether you're looking for travel, local, PRN, or permanent opportunities, we're here to connect you with meaningful work where you can make an impact in patient and student care.

Built on more than three decades of experience, VyTalent Solutions partners with hospitals, surgical centers, behavioral health facilities, schools, correctional healthcare environments, and community-based organizations nationwide. Our team is committed to creating an experience that's transparent, responsive, and centered around your goals, because finding your next opportunity should feel exciting, not exhausting.

From your first conversation through every assignment, you'll have real people in your corner, helping you navigate your career with confidence.

Energizing Talent. Delivering Solutions. Powering Innovation.

Benefits

We believe in providing benefits that benefit you. Eligible employees working 30 hours or more can access a comprehensive benefits package designed to help you thrive both personally and professionally.

Benefits include:

  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and 401(k) with company match
  • Employee Assistance Program offering mental health, financial, legal, and wellness resources
  • Wellness program focused on fitness, nutrition, and financial well-being
  • BetterHelp partnership, including one month of free therapy and discounted services
  • Scrubin uniform discounts
  • Hotel Engine travel discounts
  • Working Advantage employee discount program
  • Referral Program: Earn $500 when you refer a friend, and they'll earn $500, too.


Benefits
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Life insurance
  • Medical benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits

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