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First Assistant Jobs in Rancho Mirage, CA (NOW HIRING)

Host Healthcare

RN - OR-First Assist

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

Travel healthcare offers healthcare professionals new career opportunities that involve travel, growth, and excitement. At Host Healthcare, we are dedicated to providing travel nurses, travel ...

Eisenhower

Physician Assistant-Surgery

Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site

$73.63 - $111.85/hr

PA experience in surgical services setting across a broad spectrum functioning as a First Assistant Reports To: Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Manager, Clinical Director, Associate Vice President ...

CompHealth

OB/GYN job in Rancho Mirage CA

Rancho Mirage, CA

$259K - $280K/yr

First assist opportunities available * In-house anesthesia support * Competitive compensation package * Generous signing bonus offered * Full benefits and CME allowance * Medical malpractice with ...

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First Assistant information

See Rancho Mirage, CA salary details

$33.1K

$136K

$195.2K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Rancho Mirage, CA is $135,998.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $183,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are First Assistants?

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's the easiest hospital job to get?

The easiest hospital job to get is often a patient transporter or hospital aide, which typically requires minimal formal education and on-the-job training. These roles usually have high turnover and may not require certifications, making them accessible entry-level positions in healthcare settings.

How much do first assistants make per hour?

First assistants typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often work in fast-paced environments and may require skills in organization and communication.

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.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and advanced healthcare facilities, such as metropolitan areas or states with strong medical industries. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of surgeries also influence earning potential, with those working in specialized or high-demand surgical fields typically earning more.

What does a first assistant do?

A first assistant is a key member of a production team, often in film or theater, responsible for supporting the director or producer by managing schedules, coordinating communication, and assisting with logistical tasks. They may also handle administrative duties, oversee daily operations, and ensure the smooth flow of the project. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of production processes are essential for this role.
What cities near Rancho Mirage, CA are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities near Rancho Mirage, CA with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you

Registered Nurse (RN) - First Assist

Tenet Desert

Palm Springs, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Tenet Desert is seeking a Registered Nurse (RN) First Assist for a nursing job in Palm Springs, California.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: First Assist
  • Discipline: RN
  • Duration: Ongoing
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours
  • Employment Type: Staff

Up to $25,000 Sign-On bonus for experienced Registered Nurse / RN

Shift: Days

Job type: Full Time

Hours:

The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) is a perioperative nurse who may function as an assistant to the surgeon in the operating room during surgical procedures. The RNFA performs first assistant behaviors according to standardized hospital policies. In addition to first assisting, responsibilities may include circulating, scrubbing and other duties as assigned.

  • Maintains clinical competence by assisting on surgical procedures
  • Participates in the call rotation
  • Participate in preoperative assessment and planning for selected surgical patients
  • Recognize safety hazards and initiate appropriate preventative and corrective actions
  • Provide exposure through appropriate use of instruments, retractors, suctioning, and sponging
  • Handle and dissect tissues in collaboration with the surgeon
  • Clamp blood vessels, coagulate bleeding points, ligate vessels, and perform other procedures in collaboration with the surgeon
  • Suture muscle, fascia, subcutaneous, and skin tissue in collaboration with the surgeon
  • Place drains as surgically indicated

Required:

OR/ RNFA experience strongly required  


•    Graduate of an approved school of Nursing, and posses a current California RN license
•    Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from an accredited school
•    Certified as a perioperative nurse (CNOR) required or Certified Advance Practice Registered Nurse APRN and/or NP.
•    Completion of an approved/accredited RNFA course, including the completion of the required internship hours 
•    Proficient in perioperative nursing practice as both scrub and circulating nurse with diversified operating room experience.
•    Current American Heart Association BLS Certification (maintain current at all times) 

#LI-JS4

Tenet Desert Job ID #2603002502. Posted job title: *Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) - Surgery

Benefits
  • Sign-On bonus

Apply