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First Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Alexandria, VA

Inova Alexandria Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! Full-time (40 hrs/week) Day Shift: Monday-Friday, either two shifts-7:00am-3:00pm and two shifts-7:00am-7 ...

UVA Health

Senior Surgical First Assist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$31.49 - $50.14/hr

Surgical First Assistant Job Code: SS1701 Full time | Sign on bonus available!! ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community ...

Trustaff Allied

Travel First Assist Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

$52K - $66K/yr

First Assist Technician * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 10 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As an Operating Room ...

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First Assistant information

See Washington, DC salary details

$36.7K

$150.6K

$216.1K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Washington, DC is $150,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,700.00 and $203,700.00 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 Washington, DC?

The most popular types of First jobs in Washington, DC are:

First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,091 per year, or $72.6 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

Alexandria, VA

Inova
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 260 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 894 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Inovaexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Inova Alexandria Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! Full-time (40 hrs/week) Day Shift: Monday-Friday, either two shifts-7:00am-3:00pm and two shifts-7:00am-7:00pm or Five 8hrs shifts-7:00am-3:00pm, on-call requirement for nights, weekends, and holidays. We offer great pay based on experience, sign-on bonus and relocation assistance, if eligible! Plus, don't forget about our other amazing benefits and perks! 

Inova is consistently ranked as a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation. 

Inova Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, flexible work schedules, and remote and hybrid career opportunities

Surgical Technologist 2 Job Responsibilities:

  • The Surgical First Assistant ensures improvements in practice settings by assuming responsibility for self-development in life-long learning. 
  • Provides direction and guidance to others regarding practice, serves as a resource preceptor, and mentor. 
  • Provides safe therapeutic care by collaboration with surgeons and health care team in performing a safe operation with optimal outcomes for the patient. 
  • Utilizes standards, guidelines and pathways for care delivery. 
  • Incorporates data and information to continuously improve care and practice to enhance outcomes. 
  • Teamwork-communicates effectively and works cooperatively with others and has respect for and understanding other clinical disciplines. 
  • Serves as a resource in at least 2 specialty areas/procedures.
  • May perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education:  Completion of Surgical First Assistant program through an accredited organization; or Medical school graduate with surgical training; or completion of a surgical assistant training program during military service in the United States.
  • Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience as a Surgical First Assistant; or 2 years of Surgical Technologist experience
  • Certification: Basic Life Support from American Heart Association required upon start.
  • License: Licensed as Surgical Assistant in the Commonwealth of Virginia required upon start

Preferred experience:

  • AAS in Surgical Assisting or Surgical Technologist
  • Experience in laparoscopic and robotic procedures, total joints, and neurology preferred.

We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare. 

Inova Health System is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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