ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Assistant Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Pennsylvania Medicine

PA/NP-Surgery

Doylestown, PA · On-site

$106K - $138K/yr

Under the responsibility and supervision of the surgeon, will first assist in surgical procedures to treat various conditions, illness and injury including assisting in the treatment of any surgical ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

First Assistant information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$32.8K

$134.7K

$193.2K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Philadelphia, PA is $134,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,900.00 and $182,100.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of First jobs in Philadelphia, PA? The most popular types of First jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Philadelphia, PA 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 $134,664 per year, or $64.7 per hour.

Cardiothoracic Surgery ST. Chris - Pediatric Physician Assistant

Tower Health

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 hours ago

Tower Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

379th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Job Summary
St. Christopher's Hospital for Children is seeking an experienced Pediatric NP or PA with Pediatric experience to join our Cardiovascular Team. OR Experience needed.
Highlights:
  • Primarily first assist in the OR
  • Help with Pre and Post Op Patient care
  • Building a new CV Surgical Program
  • On Call will be required with flexible call schedule
  • Must have surgical experience as a first assist on cardiac surgery cases
  • Congenital Cardiac surgery first assist experience preferred
  • Full Time M-F Varied shift

The Benefits We Offer:
  • Competitive compensation package
  • Sign on Bonus
  • Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance
  • Retirement savings plan with employer automatic contribution and employer match.
  • Malpractice insurance & tail coverage
  • Paid time-off allowance
  • Commuter Benefits- tax-free transit or parking
  • Relocation Assistance
  • CME time and money
  • Supportive health system to advance goals

Putting Kids and Families First Since 1875
St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, a partnership between Tower Health and Drexel University, is a 188-bed facility that provides exceptional care to children throughout the Greater Philadelphia area and surrounding counties. With more than 220 pediatric experts on staff, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children combines topnotch pediatric care with a wide array of pediatric specialties, including Cardiology; Ear, Nose and Throat; Gastroenterology; Oncology; and Orthopedics. It houses the only Pediatric Burn Center between New York City and Baltimore and is one of only three Level I Pediatric Trauma Centers in Pennsylvania. St. Christopher's is a Magnet® designated hospital and has been recognized as a Women's Choice Award Best Children's Hospital.
The Community:
Philadelphia located between New York and Washington D.C, is considered to be the birthplace of the United States. The Constitution was debated here in Philadelphia in what is now the Independence Hall. The nearby Liberty Bell Center is home to the famous two-thousand-pound bell which became a symbol of freedom. The National Constitution Center also tells the story of 1920s prohibition. Learn more about Al Capone and other famous former inmates at the Eastern State Penitentiary. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the country's largest museums, is not to be missed. At Fairmount Park, discover outdoor art on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, as well as the Smith Memorial Arch dedicated to Civil War heroes. Attractions for kids include Philadelphia Zoo, the oldest zoo in America. Meet more animals at the Academy of Natural Sciences or enjoy fun and educational interactive displays at the Please Touch Museum.
Videos:
Virtual Tour - St. Chris
Virtual Tour of Philadelphia
Drexel School of Medicine Class 2025
Websites:
St. Christopher's Hospital for Children
City of Philadelphia
Contact Person Name: Lisa Wortman
Contact Phone Number: 484-628-0556
Contact Email: Lisa.Wortman@towerhealth.org
#STC
Qualifications
Education Requirements
  • 4 year/Bachelor's Degree

Experience
  • Relevant Experience

Certification and Licensure
  • BLS Certification
  • ACLS Certification
  • NCCPA Certification
  • PA Physician Assistant License

Overview
Tower Health is a regional integrated healthcare system that offers compassionate, high-quality, leading-edge healthcare and wellness services to communities in Berks, Chester, Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties. With approximately 11,500 employees, Tower Health consists of Reading Hospital in West Reading; Phoenixville Hospital in Phoenixville; Pottstown Hospital in Pottstown; and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children in Philadelphia. Tower Health has partnered with Drexel University College of Medicine to open a new medical school one-half mile walking distance from Reading Hospital, a regional medical campus for Drexel University College of Medicine at Tower Health. The school opened in 2021 and is currently accepting enrollment applications for the second class in 2024. In addition, Reading Hospital is the main training hospital for the medical school and supports ACGME accredited residency and fellowship programs. For more information, visit towerhealth.org

What Tower Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply