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First Assistant Jobs in Pawtucket, RI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

New

We are looking for 1st shift skilled CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistant) to become a part of our facility's compassionate care-giving team. The CNA will interact directly with patients, providing ...

Operating Room Assistant

Attleboro, MA · On-site

$15.67 - $23.50/hr

OR Assistant Performing under the direction of the RN/LPN and as a member of the unit-based patient care team, the OR Assistant (ORA) performs duties of direct and indirect patient care. As delegated ...

Showing results 21-40

First Assistant information

See Pawtucket, RI salary details

$31.6K

$129.9K

$186.3K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Pawtucket, RI is $129,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,400.00 and $175,600.00 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.
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Pawtucket, RI 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 $129,859 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

NP-PA-Vascular-Hospital Coverage Only

Southcoast Health System

North Dartmouth, MA • On-site

$66 - $85/hr

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Southcoast Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

413th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Southcoast Health is a not-for-profit, charitable, health system with multiple hospitals, clinics and facilities throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Nestled in local communities, Southcoast Health provides inclusive, ethical workplaces where our highly skilled caregivers offer world-class, comprehensive healthcare close to home.
Find out for yourself why Southcoast Health has been voted 'Best Place to Work' for 7 years in a row!
We are searching for a talented NP or PA for Vascular Surgery - in-patient.
Hours: Per Diem - flexible shifts & hours
Shift: Day - weekend, holiday, on-call.
Location: St. Luke's & Charlton Memorial Hospitals - New Bedford & Fall River, MA
A career at Southcoast Health offers you:
  • A culture of well-being that embraces, respects, and celebrates the rich diversity of one another and the communities we serve
  • Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package
  • Generous Earned Time Off Package**
  • Employee Wellbeing Program
  • 403B Retirement Plan with company match
  • Tuition assistance / Federal Loan Forgiveness programs
  • Professional growth opportunities and customized leadership training
**Available to regular status employees who are scheduled to work a minimum of 24 hours.
Southcoast Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Responsibilities
  • Position reports to the Chief Department of Vascular Surgery or designee, perform duties in being responsible for evaluation, care and management of patients with vascular disease in an inpatient ward setting including call responsibilities under the rules and regulations of the Massachusetts governing Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner practice.
  • Support a team of 4 surgeons and 7 APPs currently.
  • Inpatient responsibilities include supporting surgeons for IR procedures, OR first assisting, caring for patients after surgery and coordinating discharges, completing inpatient/ED consults and follow ups, and more.
Qualifications
  • Physician Assistant: Bachelors degree in a related field is required. Graduate of an A.M.A.-approved Physician Assistant program is required.
  • Certification from a National accrediting body to practice as a Physician Assistant is required.
  • Nurse Practitioner: Master of Science Degree in Nursing is required.
  • Certification from a National accrediting body to practice as a Nurse Practitioner is required. Current Massachusetts R.N. registration is required. Nurse Practitioner Certificate/Physician Assistant Certificate is required.
  • The ability to care for adult patients with a wide range of medical problems is required.
  • Position responsibilities require the maturity, self-confidence and ability to follow complex patient management plans as directed by the Attending Surgeon.
  • A minimum of three years of related work experience is preferred.
  • Physician Assistant: Certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants within one year of hire.
  • Must be qualified in all basic and advanced cardiac support standards.
  • Eligible for state and federal controlled substances registration.
  • Nurse Practitioner: Certification issued by the Commonwealth of MA to practice as an RN. Current Nurse Practitioner license required.
  • OR first assist is not required for per diem but is ideal.

Pay Range
USD $66.00 - USD $85.00 /Hr.

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