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First Assistant Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

Surgical First Assistant

Highlands Ranch, CO · On-site

$38.72 - $58.08/hr

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) by NBSTSA; Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) by NSAA; Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C) by ABSA. State Surgical Assistant or Surgical Technologist ...

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First Assistant information

See Denver, CO salary details

$33.5K

$137.4K

$197.1K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Denver, CO is $137,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,700.00 and $185,800.00 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 Denver, CO?

The most popular types of First jobs in Denver, CO are:

What cities near Denver, CO are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Denver, CO with the most First Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Denver, CO 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 $133,283 per year, or $64.1 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

Highlands Ranch, CO


UCHealth Colorado Career
Health Care and Social Assistance • 5 - 10K employees

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 456 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 896 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Good schedule notice


$38.72 - $58.08/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description

Location: UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital, US:CO: Highlands Ranch

Department: HRH OR Operating Room

Work Schedule: PRN, 0.00 hours per pay period (2 weeks)  

Shift: Flex 

Pay: 38.72 - 58.08 / hour. Pay is dependent on applicant's relevant experience

This position is an onsite role and does not offer a hybrid or remote option

Summary:
Provides direct assistance to surgeon(s) during surgical procedures.

Responsibilities:

  • Positions patient using stabilizing equipment to give best exposure for surgical procedure  while maximizing patient comfort and safety.
  • Provides visualization of the operative site using appropriate method, including manipulation of tissue and materials, retraction, sponging, suctioning, and irrigation.
  • Utilizes appropriate technique to achieve temporary and permanent hemostasis.
  • Assists with body plane closure, application of wound dressings, and securing of drainage systems.
  • Within scope of job, requires critical thinking skills, decisive judgement and the ability to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and take appropriate action.

Requirements:

  • Education: High School diploma or GED. Surgical Technologist program.
  • Licensure/Certification: Certified as a one of the following: Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) by NBSTSA; Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) by NSAA; Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C) by ABSA. State Surgical Assistant or Surgical Technologist registration. Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider.
  • Minimum Experience: None Required.
  • BLS through the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross CPR for the Professional Rescuer with card in-hand before start date. BLS or CPR card must be good through sixty days of hire.

Employees are our number one asset.

UCHealth promotes a culture that invests in professional success and personal well-being through a comprehensive total rewards program. *

Recognition

  • Performance bonus: UCHealth offers a 3-Year Incentive Bonus to recognize employee contributions to our success in quality, patient experience, organizational growth, financial goals and tenure. The bonus accumulates annually each October and is paid out in October during the third year of employment.
  • Performance-based pay increase: The Annual Merit Pay Increase recognizes work performance that meets or consistently exceeds performance standards documented through UCHealth's established evaluation process and accounts for increased experience, skills and cost of living. 
  • Market reviews: All UCHealth positions are reviewed annually to ensure UCHealth base pay aligns with market standards. Base pay rates are adjusted as needed to stay market competitive. 

Health and well-being

  • Medical, dental and vision coverage.
  • Access to 24/7 mental health and well-being support for employees and dependents.
  • Discounted gym memberships and fitness resources.
  • Free Care.com membership.
  • Voluntary benefits such as accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal plan, identity theft protection, pet insurance, auto and home insurance, and employee discount programs.
  • Time away from work: Paid time off (PTO), paid family and medical leave (inclusive of Colorado FAMLI), leaves of absence.
  • Employer-provided basic life and accidental death and dismemberment coverage with buy-up coverage options.
  • Employer-provided short-term disability and long-term disability with a buy-up coverage option.

Retirement and savings

  • 403(b) plan with employer matching contribution.
  • Additional 457(b) plan may be available.
  • Flexible spending accounts for health care and dependent day care; health savings account available when enrolled in high-deductible (HD) medical plan.

Education and career growth

  • UCHealth provides access to academic degrees and certificate programs to promote professional and personal growth.
    • Up to 100% of tuition, books and fees paid for by UCHealth for specific educational degrees. 
    • Other programs may qualify for up to 10,000/year pre-paid by UCHealth or up to 5,250/year in the form of tuition reimbursement. 
  • Access to LinkedIn Learning, which offers thousands of virtual courses and seminars, and internal professional development opportunities. 
  • Employees have access to free assistance navigating the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program and submitting their federal student loans for forgiveness.

*Eligibility for some programs is based on an employee's scheduled work hours. 

We improve lives. In big ways through learning, healing, and discovery. In small, personal ways through human connection. But in all ways, we improve lives. 

UCHealth always welcomes talent. This position will be open for a minimum of three days and until a top applicant is identified.

UCHealth recognizes and appreciates the rich array of talents and perspectives that equal employment and diversity can offer our institution. As an equal opportunity employer, UCHealth is committed to making all employment decisions based on valid requirements. No applicant shall be discriminated against in any terms, conditions or privileges of employment or otherwise be discriminated against because of the individual's race, color, national origin, language, culture, ethnicity, age, religion, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender, veteran status, socioeconomic status, or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state, or local law. UCHealth does not discriminate against any qualified applicant with a disability as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act and will make reasonable accommodations, when the do not impose an undue hardship on the organization.

Who We Are (uchealth.org)

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