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First Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

First Student

School Bus Driver

Rochester, MN

$26 - $29/hr

Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate. Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First ...

Ebenezer

Nursing Assistant (CNA/NAR)

Lake City, MN · On-site

$23.73 - $25.68/hr

Reimbursement of previous costs to take a CNA course /state NA exams, if this is your first time requesting reimbursement Lake City Care Center is nestled near the picturesque Lake Pepin in southeast ...

Ebenezer

Nursing Assistant (CNA/NAR)

Lake City, MN

$23.73 - $25.68/hr

Reimbursement of previous costs to take a CNA course /state NA exams, if this is your first time requesting reimbursement Lake City Care Center is nestled near the picturesque Lake Pepin in southeast ...

Ebenezer

Nursing Assistant (CNA/NAR)

Lake City, MN · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Reimbursement of previous costs to take a CNA course /state NA exams, if this is your first time requesting reimbursement * Generous Benefits Lake City Care Center is nestled near the picturesque ...

First Student, Inc.

School Bus Driver

Rochester, MN · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Previous experience as a teacher, CDL driver, social worker, classroom assistant, hospitality worker, or customer service or retail associate. Take the wheel and drive your career forward with First ...

Ebenezer

Nursing Assistant (CNA/NAR)

Lake City, MN · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Reimbursement of previous costs to take a CNA course /state NA exams, if this is your first time requesting reimbursement * Full Benefits package Lake City Care Center is nestled near the picturesque ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN

First Assistant information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$33K

$135.7K

$194.7K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Rochester, MN is $135,653.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,200.00 and $183,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a first assistant?

To become a first assistant, candidates typically 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, and on-the-job experience is highly valued. Developing a good understanding of the job's responsibilities and building professional relationships can also help advance to this position.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

First Assistants in film and television production can earn around $2,000 or more per day, especially for high-profile projects or with extensive experience. Such roles often require specialized skills, industry connections, and the ability to work long hours on set. Other high-paying freelance or consulting roles in finance, law, or executive management can also reach this daily rate, but they typically require advanced qualifications and significant expertise.

How much do first assistants make per hour?

First assistants typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often work in fast-paced environments and may require strong organizational skills and familiarity with office tools.

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 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 lead professionals. They handle tasks such as coordinating schedules, managing equipment, and assisting with technical or logistical needs to ensure smooth operations. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of industry tools are essential for this role.
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most First Assistant job openings:
First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Rochester, MN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,653 per year, or $65.2 per hour.

Certified Surgical Technologist

Olmsted Medical

Rochester, MN • On-site

$31.11 - $46.67/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

0.7 FTE - Variable Shifts - On Call Shifts 

Starting Pay - $31.11 - $46.67 (Based on Experience)

Offers for external candidates are generally made between the minimum and midpoint of the range, based on experience.

At Olmsted Medical Center, we value our employees and are committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. To keep up with the evolving trends, Olmsted Medical Center offers the following for employees who are employed at a 0.5 FTE or higher.

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance  
  • Vision Insurance
  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employer Paid Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability
  • Adoption Assistance Plan

Qualifications:

  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technologist program
  • Surgical technologist certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
  • BLS certified

Job Responsibilities:

  • Sets up sterile back table and Mayo stand with instruments, supplies, equipment, and medications/solutions needed for the surgical procedure.
  • Performs initial counts procedure with the RN circulator.
  • Assists team members with gowning and gloving.
  • Assists with draping and establishing of sterile field.
  • Actively participates in surgical timeout.
  • Anticipates the needs of the surgeon.
  • Measures and passes medications, hemostatic agents, and irrigation solutions on the sterile field.
  • Holds retractors as directed by the surgeon.
  • Applies suction and sponges to the operative site as needed.
  • Cuts suture material as directed by the surgeon.
  • May apply electrocautery to forceps and clamps on bleeders.
  • Prepares sterile dressings.
  • Prepares and passes off specimens.
  • Cleans and prepares instruments for sterilization.
  • Assists other members of the team with room turnover.
  • Performs work duties in a dependable manner.
  • Demonstrates open communication; team oriented.
  • Maintains confidentiality.
  • Maintains ongoing self-development.
  • Acts in a professional manner.
  • Lifting, pushing, and pulling instruments and pans throughout the sterilization process.
  • Performs repetitive motions throughout shift.
  • May function in the role of surgical first assistant with additional education and training.
  • May assist RN circulator (e.g. obtaining additional instruments, supplies, and equipment) if necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned.

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