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First Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$48.51 - $79.07/hr

Inova Fairfax Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! This position will be full time, days. We offer great pay based on experience, sign-on bonus and relocation ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$69.74/hr

Inova Fairfax Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! This position will be full time, days and shifts will vary based on case load. Inova is consistently ranked ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

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 ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$48.51 - $79.07/hr

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 ...

ClubCorp

1st Assistant Superintendent

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Superintendent First Assistant at Oak Creek Golf Club | Upper Marlboro, MD | Invited Ready to join a dynamic company in the hospitality and service industry where people help drive the success of the ...

UVA Health

Senior Surgical First Assist

Manassas, VA

$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 ...

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All JobsFirst JobsFirst Assistant JobsFirst Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC

First Assistant information

See Washington, DC salary details

$36.8K

$151.1K

$216.8K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in Washington, DC is $151,091.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $204,400.00 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 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, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,091 per year, or $72.6 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

Inova Health System

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 260 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Inova Fairfax Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! This position will be full time, days and shifts will vary based on case load.

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 First Assistant 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 the areas of Robotics, GYN and OB preferred.

What Inova Health System employees say

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