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First Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

UW Health

Surgical Recovery Coordinator

Madison, WI · On-site

$29.52 - $44.28/hr

Surgical technician or surgical first assistant Preferred Work Experience * 1 year of experience in a surgical and/or pre-hospital environment, including but not limited to functioning as a surgical ...

UW Health

Surgical Recovery Coordinator

Madison, WI · On-site

Surgical technician or surgical first assistant Preferred Work Experience * 1 year of experience in a surgical and/or pre-hospital environment, including but not limited to functioning as a surgical ...

UW Health

Surgical Recovery Coordinator

Madison, WI · On-site

Surgical technician or surgical first assistant Preferred Work Experience * 1 year of experience in a surgical and/or pre-hospital environment, including but not limited to functioning as a surgical ...

UWHealth

Surgical Recovery Coordinator

Madison, WI

Surgical technician or surgical first assistant Preferred Work Experience * 1 year of experience in a surgical and/or pre-hospital environment, including but not limited to functioning as a surgical ...

UW Health

Physician Assistant - Otolaryngology

Madison, WI · On-site

$100K - $136K/yr

Gerontology and RN First Assist preferred. * If Physician Assistant: Active PA license in State of Wisconsin AND active PA board certification. All Nurse Practitioner and Physician Assistant ...

UW Health

Physician Assistant - Otolaryngology

Madison, WI · On-site

$100K - $136K/yr

Gerontology and RN First Assist preferred. * If Physician Assistant: Active PA license in State of Wisconsin AND active PA board certification. All Nurse Practitioner and Physician Assistant ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI

First Assistant information

See Madison, WI salary details

$32.8K

$134.5K

$193K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Madison, WI is $134,489.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,800.00 and $181,900.00 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 cities near Madison, WI are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most First Assistant job openings:

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,489 per year, or $64.7 per hour.

Physician Assistant - Inpatient Podiatry

University of Wisconsin Medical Foundation

Madison, WI • On-site

$100K - $136K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

UW Health rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 227 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Work Schedule:
100% FTE, Monday - Friday, between the hours of 7:00 am - 3:30 pm.
Be part of something remarkable
As an Advanced Practice Provider, you'll play an integral role in our care teams by providing high-quality, cost-effective care to patients.
We are seeking a Physician Assistant to:
  • Conduct Inpatient rounding with the Podiatrists
  • Perform consults in the ED
  • First Assist in the OR
  • Provide care to Podiatry patients while admitted to the hospital including bedside debridement, wound care plans, and discharge planning
Education:
Physician Assistant: Bachelor's or Master's degree from accredited PA Program.
Licenses and Certifications:
Minimum - State of Wisconsin PA licensure
Physician Assistant*:
  • Active PA license, including prescriptive authority, in state(s) of practice AND
  • Active PA board certification

Physician Assistant applicants must have*: Active DEA license or ability to apply for such license prior to or upon hire
Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging
UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates belonging for everyone and is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member brings to work each day. It is the policy of UW Health to provide equal opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
University Hospital in Madison is a Magnet®-designated facility that's ranked Wisconsin's #1 hospital and considered one of the nation's leading hospitals, teaching institutions and referral centers.
UnityPoint Health - Meriter - This position is located at our partner organization, UnityPoint Health - Meriter , a 448-bed community hospital located at 202 S. Park Street, Madison, just two miles from University Hospital. UW Health partnered with UnityPoint Health - Meriter in 2017 as a way to better serve our community by leveraging the complex, tertiary capabilities of the UW Health system and the community-based hospital and primary care capabilities of UnityPoint Health-Meriter.
Learn more about this opening
UW Medical Foundation benefits

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About UW Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

UW Health Clinics - our physicians and staff are dedicated to providing an exceptional patient and family experience by delivering the highest quality of care in a compassionate environment. With more than 80 primary and specialty care clinics located throughout Dane County and the surrounding areas, we are proud to have the opportunity to impact the communities we serve.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

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