ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Assistant Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

Mount Carmel Health System

Surgical Tech

Columbus, OH · On-site

The Surgical Technician First Assistant, under the direction of a Registered Nurse, will provide patient care, in an atmosphere sensitive to each person's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual ...

Mount Carmel Health System

Surgical Tech

Westerville, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Surgical Technician First Assist , under the direction of a Registered Nurse, will provide patient care in an atmosphere sensitive to each person's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual ...

TNAA

Operating Room (OR) Registered Nurse RN

Columbus, OH · On-site

$56.11/hr

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 ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Columbus, OH

First Assistant information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$30.6K

$125.6K

$180.3K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Columbus, OH is $125,626.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,100.00 and $169,900.00 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 Columbus, OH?

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

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

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

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Columbus, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,626 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Surgical Technician - Inpatient Surgery - Mount Carmel East - Full Time

Mount Carmel Health System

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Mount Carmel Health System rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Employment Type:Full timeShift:Rotating Shift Description:At Mount Carmel, we work to continuously inspire one another. Here, all are welcome. It is this culture of humility and compassion that sets Mount Carmel apart. We see the big picture and do the right thing. That means a dedication to the well-being our both our colleagues and the patients they serve.

Our Surgical Technician colleagues support our mission in a variety of ways. Their compassion and commitment to collaborative excellence positively impacts our patients and the communities we serve.  This is what truly sets Mount Carmel apart.  In return, Mount Carmel provides excellent learning and growth opportunities, excellent benefits and opportunities to succeed.

The Surgical Technician First Assistant, under the direction of a Registered Nurse, will provide patient care, in an atmosphere sensitive to each person’s physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Functions within the standards, policies, procedures, and guidelines of the Organization.   Under RN’s direction, sets up and maintains the surgical field and assists the surgeon during operative procedures.

Responsibilities  

  • Assists in meeting goals and initiatives for surgery department; such as, but not limited to room turnover and first-case on-time starts.
  • Assists in training/orientation of associates as directed by the Clinical Educator.
  • Safe Practice:  Maintains a safe environment for the patient.
  • Maintains sterile techniques.

Requirements/Qualifications

Education:

  • High school graduate or equivalent

  • Graduate of a Certified First Assistant (CFA) program through the Accreditation Review Committee on Education in Surgical Technology (ARC-ST) OR the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) preferred.

Licensure / Certification:

  • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
  • Certified First Assistant (CFA) certification by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) OR National Surgical Assistant Association or American Board of Surgical Assistants

Discovering opportunities, support and excellence – all while making a real difference in patients’ lives – begins at Mount Carmel. Find a new beginning and advance your career with us.

Mount Carmel and all its affiliates are proud to be equal opportunity employers. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, or physical ability.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
 

Trinity Health is a family of 115,000 colleagues and nearly 26,000 physicians and clinicians across 25 states. Because we serve diverse populations, our colleagues are trained to recognize the cultural beliefs, values, traditions, language preferences, and health practices of the communities that we serve and to apply that knowledge to produce positive health outcomes. We also recognize that each of us has a different way of thinking and perceiving our world and that these differences often lead to innovative solutions.

Our dedication to diversity includes a unified workforce (through training and education, recruitment, retention, and development), commitment and accountability, communication, community partnerships, and supplier diversity.

What Mount Carmel Health System employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply