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First Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

VHC Health

L&D OR First Assistant

Arlington, VA

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Position TitleL&D OR First Assistant Purpose & Scope: The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under ...

CT Assist

CVOR NP, locums

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$115 - $135/hr

* CVOR Nurse Practitioner * 5+ years EVH and first assist experience * 4 10-12 hour days * OR Only * Rotating Call * Duration: 6 months * Summer Start * Virginia * Must have 5 or more years of ...

UVA Health

Surgical Assistant, Senior

Manassas, VA · On-site

$41.54 - $67.46/hr

Graduate of a recognized first assist program with National Certification or RN required. Or, if a physician from another country and practicing in the United States as a First Assistant, this is ...

VHC Health

L&D OR First Assistant

Arlington, VA

$45.18 - $73.17/hr

Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred. Experience: Three years of operating room experience is preferred. Certification/Licensure: Licensed Surgical Assistant by the ...

VHC Health

L&D OR First Assistant

Arlington, VA · On-site

$45.18 - $73.17/hr

Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred. Experience: Three years of operating room experience is preferred. Certification/Licensure: Licensed Surgical Assistant by the ...

Medix

Physician Assistant Surgical Assist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Surgical PA First Assist - Rockville, MD (OB cases) - Serve as the Surgical First Assist for minimally invasive gynecologic procedures in an ambulatory surgery center setting. - Provide ...

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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.

L&D OR First Assistant

VHC Health

Arlington, VA

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

VHC Health rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Position TitleL&D OR First AssistantJob Description

Purpose & Scope:

The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under direct supervision of the attending surgeon and in accordance with the goals of the Department of Surgery and the philosophy of the Division of Nursing and the policy of the Medical Staff. Interpretive skills, frequent interactive and consultative associations, are inherent in the position. The ability to retrieve, communicate, or otherwise present information in a written, auditory, or visual fashion is essential. The primary method to express or exchange ideas is through the spoken word. Written, telephone, and manual dexterity skills are required for this position.

Education:

Satisfaction of education requirements needed to obtain licensure as a Surgical Assistant by the Virginia Department of Health is required.

Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred.

Experience:

Three years of operating room experience is preferred.

Certification/Licensure:

Licensed Surgical Assistant by the Virginia Department of Health Professions required.

Certified in Surgical Assisting preferred.

Additional Job DescriptionAt VHC Health, every role contributes to exceptional care, better outcomes, and stronger communities.\nIn addition to your base compensation, VHC Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage (subject to eligibility requirements), as well as additional wellness and retirement benefits designed to support our employees and their families.\nVHC Health is committed to wage transparency and equitable pay practices. The compensation offered for this position-whether expressed as an annual salary or hourly rate-is determined based on a variety of legitimate, non-discriminatory factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and experience, skill level, shift differentials (where applicable), internal equity, and current market conditions.\nThe posted hiring range reflects the range VHC Health, in good faith, believes is appropriate for this role at the time of posting. This range may be adjusted in the future based on business needs or market changes. No portion of compensation is considered earned until it is vested and determined in accordance with the terms of applicable policies and benefit plans. The availability and amount of any bonuses, incentives, or other benefits are subject to the terms of those plans and may be modified at the sole discretion of VHC Health, in accordance with applicable law.\nVHC Health 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.\nVHC Health maintains a drug-free workplace. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited at all VHC Health locations.Employment Type: PART_TIME

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