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First Assistant Jobs in Ocala, FL (NOW HIRING)

Certified Surgical First Assist

Ocala, FL

$28.68 - $53.35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Previous first assistant experience related to the area of specialty [Preferred] * Knowledge of Anatomy [Preferred] * General knowledge of asepsis, healing, infectious disease process, surgical ...

PA - Surgery

Inverness, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Advanced Cardiac Physician Assistant HCA Healthcare is seeking an advanced cardiac Physician Assistant with 1st assist experience preferred for our cardiac group in our North Tampa market of ...

Cardiothoracic

Inverness, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Qualified Candidates: • You will be working with a two physician, three APP group that specializes in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery • Surgical first assist experience preferred, will train ...

New

Physician Assiatant

Ocala, FL · On-site

$150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Client is seeking a full-time Physician Assistant (PA) for a hands-on spine and orthopedics role that blends outpatient clinic visits, first assist in the OR, and injection procedures. This is a ...

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Showing results 1-20

First Assistant information

See Ocala, FL salary details

$30.2K

$124K

$178K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Ocala, FL is $124,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,600.00 and $167,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 role. Some positions may require specific certifications or training, and gaining experience through entry-level roles can help advance to a first assistant position.

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 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.

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 cities near Ocala, FL are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities near Ocala, FL with the most First Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Ocala, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,028 per year, or $59.6 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant PRN

HCA Florida Citrus Hospital

Inverness, FL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


HCA Florida Healthcare rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 480 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

668th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Are you passionate about the patient experience? At HCA Healthcare, we are committed to caring for patients with purpose and integrity. We care like family! Jump-start your career as a(an) Surgical First Assistant PRN today with HCA Florida Citrus Hospital.

Job Summary and Qualifications

Surgical Technologist First Assist

 Our Surgical Service teams are a committed, caring group of colleagues. We have a passion for creating positive patient interactions. As a Surgical Tech First Assist you will work directly with the surgeon in the operating room. You may scrub and assist the physician during procedures. If you are dedicated to caring for the well-being of others, this could be your next opportunity.

Your responsibilities and tasks may include:

· You will assist before during and after surgical procedures - providing retraction, manipulation of tissues, homeostasis, and other functions to ensure good visualization of the surgical field and optimal results for the patient.

· You may perform ligation and approximation of tissues, clamp and electrocautery application.

· You may assist in the preparation of patients, positioning and the application of casts, immobilizers, or tourniquets.

· You may apply surgical dressings and drainage and you might even close wounds for the surgeon.

· You may assist the RN in technical functions related to patient care in the OR.

Qualifications

 · Graduate of an approved Surgical First Assistant program OR Medical School Graduate OR an allied health professional with 2250 hours of surgical rotation.

· Current certification as a Surgical Assistant having completed 350 cases and 2 years of experience in the last 4 years

· BLS approved by American Heart Association

· Must be able to lift 100 pounds and routinely carry 50 pounds

    Benefits

    HCA Florida Citrus Hospital, offers a total rewards package that supports the health, life, career and retirement of our colleagues. The available plans and programs include:

    • Comprehensive benefits for medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, behavioral health and telemedicine services
    • Wellbeing support, including free counseling and referral services
    • Time away from work programs for paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence
    • Savings and retirement resources, including a 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service), Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships, retirement readiness tools, rollover support and financial wellbeing counseling
    • Education support through tuition assistance, student loan assistance, certification support, dependent scholarships and a partnership with Galen College of Nursing
    • Additional benefits for fertility and family building, adoption assistance, life insurance, supplemental health protection plans, auto and home insurance, legal counseling, identity theft protection and consumer discounts

    Learn more about Employee Benefits

    Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location.

    Since 1957, HCA Florida Citrus Hospital has grown from a single community hospital into a regional powerhouse with over 200 licensed beds. We are proud to be celebrating over 50 years of healing as the leading provider of healthcare in the surrounding area. We offer 24-hour emergency room services, heart and vascular care, orthopedic and spine care, women's services, primary stroke center, minimally invasive surgery including robotics and bariatrics. We also offer outpatient wound care, diagnostics, laboratory and rehab services. We are the home of Citrus county's most comprehensive Heart and Vascular Center. Our Heart and Vascular Center is known for its innovative design and outstanding clinical outcomes.

    At Citrus Hospital, our patients become our family. You may recognize many of our colleagues. They're your neighbors and friends. Over 80 of our colleagues were recently celebrated with the 10+ years of service award. That's the advantage of receiving care in a community hospital that offers more personalized care. We have been consistently top-rated in surgical excellence. We believe excellent people make excellence happen. If this sounds like the type of meaningful work you'd like to be a part of, we hope you'll consider a career at Citrus Hospital.

    HCA Healthcare has been named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute for ten consecutive years (2010-2019). In 2019, HCA Healthcare spent an estimated $3.7 billion in cost for the delivery of charitable care, uninsured discounts, and other uncompensated expenses.


    "The great hospitals will always put the patient and the patient's family first, and the really great institutions will provide care with warmth, compassion, and dignity for the individual."- Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr.
    HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

    If you are looking for an opportunity that provides satisfaction and personal growth, we encourage you to apply for our Surgical First Assistant PRN opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. Unlock the possibilities and apply today!

    We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.


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