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First Assistant Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

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First Assistant information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$30.8K

$126.6K

$181.6K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Phoenix, AZ is $126,586.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,400.00 and $171,200.00 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 Phoenix, AZ?

The most popular types of First jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most First Assistant job openings:

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,586 per year, or $60.9 per hour.

Physician Assistant / First Assist

Wickenburg Community Hospital

Surprise, AZ • On-site

$96K - $130K/yr

Other

PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Wickenburg Community Hospital rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 1,061 rated hospitals

Job description

Physician Assistant / First Assist

Wickenburg Community Hospital is a beautiful and sophisticated rural-access hospital located in Wickenburg, Arizona. WCH is a 8-bed Emergency Department, 19-bed Acute department and many ancillary services. We also have 3 Primary Care Clinics. Here at WCH, we strive to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and care. Join us today and let us be part of your success story.

We offer:

  • Full Benefits
  • PTO/Sick Leave
  • Wellness Benefits

Wickenburg Community Hospital is a non-profit organization and qualifies for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

General Description

The Physician Assistant / First Assist shall provide medical and administrative services to meet the needs of WCH Surgical Services patients. Physician Assistant / First Assist shall always provide only those professional services that Physician Assistant is qualified to deliver and shall provide such services in a manner that is consistent with the patient's best interests.

Essential Job Duties
  • Physician Assistant shall provide medical services to serve the needs of Surgery Clinic patients who are assigned to Physician Assistant by Community Health Clinic (CHC) and/or managed care payors, all in accordance with guidelines, requirements and limitations as set forth by CHC and/or WCH.
  • Has responsibility for medical services provided by CHC:
    • Function as First Assist for the surgeons as needed (primarily orthopedic cases)
    • Provide medical care for new patients and follow-up postop care and treatment for patients seen in the Surgery Clinic.
  • Physician Assistant / First Assist shall always provide only those professional services that Physician Assistant / First Assist is qualified to deliver.
  • Physician Assistant / First Assist shall perform administrative duties related to patient care as CHC may reasonably assign to Physician Assistant.
  • Physician Assistant / First Assist shall cooperate and comply with the policies and procedures of CHC, including those, which are pertinent to patient relations, quality assurance, scheduling, billing, collections and other administrative matters.
  • Physician Assistant / First Assist and shall cooperate with CHC's efforts to bill and collect fees for services rendered to Clinic patients.
  • Physician Assistant / First Assist shall assist and cooperate with CHC in developing relationships with third-party payor contracts and shall be available to provide medical services to all persons covered by payor contracts that are entered into by CHC.
  • Physician Assistant / First Assist shall promptly prepare and file reports of all professional medical services rendered by Physician Assistant / First Assist, and maintain and make available upon request all necessary records to ensure that CHC and the Clinic satisfy all requirements for payor contracts, malpractice insurance coverage and participation in federal and state payment programs.
    • Physician Assistant / First Assist shall maintain such records for a period of five (5) years from the date of service.
    • To the extent that there are subsequent changes or clarifications of statutes, regulations or rules, Physician Assistant / First Assist shall take such steps as are necessary to permit CHC to comply with such changes.
  • All business transactions related to the services provided by Physician Assistant, such as enrollment, verification and billings, shall be conducted by and in the name of CHC.
  • Physician Assistant/ First Assist shall cooperate with and assist CHC in all litigation matters affecting Physician Assistant / First Assist and CHC.
  • Physician Assistant / First Assist shall meet the performance, productivity and utilization standards set forth by Clinic.
  • Adhere to all other stated provisions in the Physician Assistant / First Assist's employment agreement.
Other (Non-Essential) Job Duties
  • Work with CHC in the monitoring and reviewing of the clinical performance of support health care professionals who provide services to Surgery Clinic's patients.
  • Comply with and participate in quality assurance and utilization review and management, inclusive of peer review and disciplinary actions, as directed by CHC.
  • Participate in establishing policies, procedures and committees for utilization, management, quality assurance, and peer review of all professionals who provide services through the Clinic.
  • Assist CHC management with all preparation for, and conduct of, any inspections and on-site surveys of the Clinic.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Completion of a program accredited by the ARC-PA
  • Successful completion of the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE).
  • Certification as a Surgical First Assistant by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
  • Be licensed by the State of Arizona Regulatory Board of Physician Assistants and be qualified by training and experience to provide surgical services.
  • Be eligible to become a member of the medical staff of Wickenburg Community Hospital (WCH) with appropriate clinical privileges, in accordance with the bylaws of the Medical Staff.
  • Hold a current and unrestricted DEA registration number
  • Be eligible to participate in a "Federal healthcare program" as defined in 41 U.S.C. 1320a-7b(f) or in any other governmental payment program
  • Have never been excluded from participation, and maintain an unrestricted right to participate, in the State of Arizona and federal health care programs, including, without limitation, Medicare, Medicaid and AHCCCS.
  • CPR and ACLS Certification
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience as a Physician Assistant in a Surgical Clinic
  • Previous experience as First Assist in the OR with emphasis in orthopedic cases
Physical Requirements/Working Conditions

Frequent standing, stooping, bending, stretching, squatting; must be able to stand/walk for up to 70% of the work day; must be able to lift, transfer, turn and position residents weighing up to 125 lbs. unassisted, or with the assistance of one for a resident weighing over 125 lbs. May be subjected to offensive odors and combative behavior. Must be able to lift and carry up to 20 lbs. frequently and 50 lbs. occasionally. May be exposed to communicable diseases including the HIV and HBV viruses. Must be able to work paying close attention to detail with frequent interruptions.

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