Certifications Required - Certified Surgical Assistant or Certified First Assistant Basic Life Support (BLS) from American Heart Association. Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Skilled in ...
Certifications Required - Certified Surgical Assistant or Certified First Assistant Basic Life Support (BLS) from American Heart Association. Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Skilled in ...
Certifications Required -Certified Surgical Assistant or Certified First Assistant Basic Life Support(BLS) from American HeartAssociation. Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Skilled in suturing ...
Certifications Required -Certified Surgical Assistant or Certified First Assistant Basic Life Support(BLS) from American HeartAssociation. Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Skilled in suturing ...
Certifications Required - Certified Surgical Assistant or Certified First Assistant Basic Life Support (BLS) from American Heart Association. Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Skilled in ...
Certifications Required - Certified Surgical Assistant or Certified First Assistant Basic Life Support (BLS) from American Heart Association. Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Skilled in ...
Certifications Required -Certified Surgical Assistant or Certified First Assistant Basic Life Support(BLS) from American HeartAssociation. Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Skilled in suturing ...
Certifications Required -Certified Surgical Assistant or Certified First Assistant Basic Life Support(BLS) from American HeartAssociation. Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Skilled in suturing ...
Travel RN First Assist - $3,769 per week
Covington, LA · On-site
$3.7K/wk
First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel Estimated Pay Package : Up to $ 3769.20 per week *The above pay ...
Travel RN First Assist - $3,769 per week
Covington, LA · On-site
$3.7K/wk
First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel Estimated Pay Package : Up to $ 3769.20 per week *The above pay ...
As a Certified Surgical Technologist First Assist, you're on the front-row of some incredible moments. With patient safety always top of mind, you're right there, providing support during surgeries ...
As a Certified Surgical Technologist First Assist, you're on the front-row of some incredible moments. With patient safety always top of mind, you're right there, providing support during surgeries ...
As a Certified Surgical Technologist First Assist, you're on the front-row of some incredible moments. With patient safety always top of mind, you're right there, providing support during surgeries ...
As a Certified Surgical Technologist First Assist, you're on the front-row of some incredible moments. With patient safety always top of mind, you're right there, providing support during surgeries ...
Nurse Practitioner First Assist or Physician Assistant - Cardiovascular Surgery
Covington, LA · On-site
$93K - $121K/yr
Nurse Practitioner first assist or Physician Assistant Education Nurse Practitioner Required - Master's degree in Nursing Physician Assistant Required - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physician ...
Nurse Practitioner First Assist or Physician Assistant - Cardiovascular Surgery
Covington, LA · On-site
$93K - $121K/yr
Nurse Practitioner first assist or Physician Assistant Education Nurse Practitioner Required - Master's degree in Nursing Physician Assistant Required - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physician ...
Nurse Practitioner first assist or Physician Assistant Education Nurse Practitioner Required - Master's degree in Nursing Physician Assistant Required - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physician ...
Nurse Practitioner first assist or Physician Assistant Education Nurse Practitioner Required - Master's degree in Nursing Physician Assistant Required - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physician ...
Nurse Practitioner - Cardiovascular Surgery, Physician Assistant - Cardiovascular/Cardiothoracic ...
Covington, LA · On-site
Nurse Practitioner First Assist / Physician Assistant - Cardiovascular Surgery - Covington, LA Join a leading facility in Covington, Louisiana, offering competitive pay and flexible scheduling. This ...
Nurse Practitioner - Cardiovascular Surgery, Physician Assistant - Cardiovascular/Cardiothoracic ...
Covington, LA · On-site
Nurse Practitioner First Assist / Physician Assistant - Cardiovascular Surgery - Covington, LA Join a leading facility in Covington, Louisiana, offering competitive pay and flexible scheduling. This ...
First assist with cardiothoracic surgeon * Patients Per Shift: Approximately 13 * EMR: Epic Clinical Focus * Specialty: Cardiovascular / Cardiothoracic Surgery * Required Skills: * Endoscopic vein ...
First assist with cardiothoracic surgeon * Patients Per Shift: Approximately 13 * EMR: Epic Clinical Focus * Specialty: Cardiovascular / Cardiothoracic Surgery * Required Skills: * Endoscopic vein ...
CVOR First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/30/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel equired - Registered Nurse diploma Preferred ...
CVOR First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/30/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel equired - Registered Nurse diploma Preferred ...
First assist with cardiothoracic surgeon * Patients Per Shift: Approximately 13 * EMR: Epic Clinical Focus * Specialty: Cardiovascular / Cardiothoracic Surgery * Required Skills: * Endoscopic vein ...
First assist with cardiothoracic surgeon * Patients Per Shift: Approximately 13 * EMR: Epic Clinical Focus * Specialty: Cardiovascular / Cardiothoracic Surgery * Required Skills: * Endoscopic vein ...
... First Assistant Program Basic Life Support (BLS) from American Heart Association Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Demonstrates good judgement in performing duties and conflict resolution.
... First Assistant Program Basic Life Support (BLS) from American Heart Association Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Demonstrates good judgement in performing duties and conflict resolution.
... First Assistant Program Basic Life Support (BLS) from American Heart Association Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Demonstrates good judgement in performing duties and conflict resolution.
... First Assistant Program Basic Life Support (BLS) from American Heart Association Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs) * Demonstrates good judgement in performing duties and conflict resolution.
First assist role in cardiovascular surgery * Inpatient and outpatient responsibilities * Scheduled clinical hours + call * Supporting new CV surgeon * EMR: Epic Requirements: * NP First Assist or PA
First assist role in cardiovascular surgery * Inpatient and outpatient responsibilities * Scheduled clinical hours + call * Supporting new CV surgeon * EMR: Epic Requirements: * NP First Assist or PA
This job carries out functions that assist the surgeon in performing surgery with optimal results for the patient, practices under the direct supervision of the surgeon, and functions in either a ...
This job carries out functions that assist the surgeon in performing surgery with optimal results for the patient, practices under the direct supervision of the surgeon, and functions in either a ...
This job carries out functions that assist the surgeon in performing surgery with optimal results for the patient, practices under the direct supervision of the surgeon, and functions in either a ...
This job carries out functions that assist the surgeon in performing surgery with optimal results for the patient, practices under the direct supervision of the surgeon, and functions in either a ...
Role: Nurse Practitioner First Assist or Physician Assistant * Specialty: Cardiovascular Surgery * Duration: 365 days * Start Date: ASAP * End Date: January 26, 2027 * Care Setting: Cardiovascular ...
Role: Nurse Practitioner First Assist or Physician Assistant * Specialty: Cardiovascular Surgery * Duration: 365 days * Start Date: ASAP * End Date: January 26, 2027 * Care Setting: Cardiovascular ...
Role: Nurse Practitioner First Assist or Physician Assistant * Specialty: Cardiovascular Surgery * Duration: 365 days * Start Date: ASAP * End Date: January 26, 2027 * Care Setting: Cardiovascular ...
Role: Nurse Practitioner First Assist or Physician Assistant * Specialty: Cardiovascular Surgery * Duration: 365 days * Start Date: ASAP * End Date: January 26, 2027 * Care Setting: Cardiovascular ...
First Assistant information
See Covington, LA salary details
$39.8K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$28K - $40.4K
26% of jobs
$40.4K - $52.8K
0% of jobs
$52.8K - $65.3K
0% of jobs
$65.3K - $77.7K
0% of jobs
$77.7K - $90.1K
0% of jobs
$90.1K - $102.6K
0% of jobs
$102.6K - $115K
10% of jobs
The median wage is $125.5K / yr.
$115K - $127.4K
16% of jobs
$127.4K - $139.9K
0% of jobs
$139.9K - $152.3K
19% of jobs
$153.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$152.3K - $164.7K
28% of jobs
$28K
$114.8K
$164.7K
How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?
How do I become a first assistant?
What is a first assistant?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first assistant, and why are they important?
What is the difference between First Assistant vs Second Assistant?
| Aspect | First Assistant | Second Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires medical or legal certifications, depending on industry | Similar credentials, often with less experience required |
| Work Environment | High-pressure settings, assisting lead professionals | Support role, often in administrative or support settings |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Used in legal, medical, or film industries as a primary support role | Supporting role, often subordinate to First Assistant |
| Common Search & Comparison | Often compared for responsibilities and qualifications | Less 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?

Full-time
Re-posted 23 days ago
Ochsner Health rating
6.5
Based on 444 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
603rd of 887 rated healthcare providers
Job description
At Ochsner, whether you work with patients every day or support those who do, you are making a difference and that matters. Come make a difference at Ochsner Health and discover your future today!
This job collaborates with the surgeon and the healthcare team in performing a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. Performs these functions under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. In collaboration with surgical technologist performs separate roles which is defined by job description and advanced education which requires knowledge in the use of surgical instruments on tissues versus the handling of instruments.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.
This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at the company's discretion.
Education
Required - High school diploma or equivalent and graduate of an accredited Surgical First Assistant program.
Preferred- Certified course in Endoscopic Saphenous Vein Harvesting.
Work Experience
Required - 5 years of experience working in surgery.
Preferred - 2 years of experience in Surgical First Assisting.
Certifications
Required - Certified Surgical Assistant or Certified First Assistant
Basic Life Support (BLS) from American Heart Association.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)
- Skilled in suturing and saphenous vein harvesting.
- Strong knowledge of sterile technique.
- Conflict resolution skills and ability to demonstrate good judgement.
- Basic analytical skills.
- Proficiency in using computers, software, and web-based applications.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to present information clearly and professionally to varying levels of individuals throughout the patient care process.
- Ability to travel throughout and between facilities.
Job Duties
- Practices strict adherence to sterile technique.
- Facilitates preparation of the patient for surgery.
- Provides visualization of the operative field.
- Under the direct supervision of the surgeon, harvests the saphenous vein for coronary artery grafting purposes.
- Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist with closure of body planes.
- Selects and applies appropriate wound dressing and secures drainage system or intra aortic balloon pump to tissue.
- Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.
- Performs other related duties as required.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.
Remains knowledgeable on current federal, state and local laws, accreditation standards or regulatory agency requirements that apply to the assigned area of responsibility and ensures compliance with all such laws, regulations and standards.
This employer maintains and complies with its Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct, including the immediate reporting of any known or suspected unethical or questionable behaviors or conduct; patient/employee safety, patient privacy, and/or other compliance-related concerns.
The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Physical and Environmental Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Heavy Work - Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. (Constantly: activity or condition exists 2/3 or more of the time) to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) when it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg controls; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible. NOTE: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible.
Duties performed routinely require exposure to blood, body fluid and tissue.
The incumbent works in a patient care area; works in an area where patients enter; works directly with patients; and/or works with specimens that could contain communicable diseases. There may be an occupational risk for exposure to communicable diseases.
Because the incumbent works within a healthcare setting, there may be occupational risk for exposure to hazardous medications or hazardous waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning and/or disposal of contaminated waste. The risk level of exposure may increase depending on the essential job duties of the role.
Are you ready to make a difference? Apply Today!
Ochsner Health does not consider an individual an applicant until they have formally applied to the open position on this careers website.
Please refer to the job description to determine whether the position you are interested in is remote or on-site. Individuals who reside in and will work from the following areas are not eligible for remote work position: Colorado, California, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Washington, and Washington D.C.
Ochsner Health endeavors to make our site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website, or if you need an accommodation to complete the application process, please contact our HR Employee Solution Center at 504-842-4748 (select option 1) or careers@ochsner.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
Ochsner is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any legally protected class, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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About Ochsner Health
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Hospitals
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
New Orleans, LA, US
Year founded
1942