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$32.5K

$133.5K

$191.5K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant in the United States is $133,451.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $180,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A First Assistant, such as an executive or personal assistant, can earn around $10,000 per month with extensive experience, strong organizational skills, and sometimes specialized knowledge. High-level assistants in corporate or entertainment industries may reach this income level, especially with overtime, bonuses, or working for high-net-worth clients.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

A First Assistant in certain industries, such as film or theater, can earn around $3,000 a month depending on experience and workload. Other roles like administrative assistants, sales representatives, or skilled trades workers may also reach this income level without a formal degree, often requiring on-the-job training or certifications. Income varies based on location, industry, and experience.

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.

More about First Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for First Assistant jobs? Cities with the most First Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of First jobs? The most popular types of First jobs are:
What states have the most First Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for First Assistant jobs include:
First Assistant jobs near you

Surgical First Assistant

Saint Thomas Surgicare (11660)

Hendersonville, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Saint Thomas Surgicare is Hiring a Certified First Assistant
No weekends, no call, no Holidays!
Welcome to Saint Thomas Surgicare! Saint Thomas Surgicare is a dynamic, fast-paced Ambulatory Surgery Center dedicated to delivering exceptional quality care and an outstanding experience for patients and their families. At Saint Thomas Surgicare, we believe that health and compassionate care go hand in hand.
Our mission is to treat every patient and their family as if they were our own-providing the highest level of care, every time, without exception.
Certified First Assistant at Saint Thomas Surgicare
A surgical first assistant plays a vital role in a successful surgical procedure. They are primarily in charge of assisting surgeons, such as by arranging and handing over tools, holding open incisions, and dressing surgical wounds.
Qualifications
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Completion of a Surgical Technician Program.
  • NBSTSA Surgical First Assistant Certification required.
  • Two years of Certified Surgical First Assistant experience in multiple specialties or an equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred.
  • Able to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations. Other skills and abilities: General familiarity with medical terminology as it pertains to anatomy and surgical procedures in an operating room.

What We Offer
As an organization, one way we care for our communities and each other is by providing a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage
  • Life and AD&D coverage
  • Availability of short- and long-term disability
  • Flexible financial benefits including FSAs and HSAs
  • 401(k) and access to retirement planning
  • Paid holidays and vacation

Who We Are
At USPI, we create relationships that create better care. We partner with physicians and healthcare systems to provide first-class ambulatory solutions throughout the United States. We are committed to providing surgical services in the most efficient and clinically excellent manner.
USPI is committed to, and proud of, our inclusive culture. An inclusive culture, in our view, is respectful of differences and nurtures and supports the contributions of each individual, while also embracing and leveraging diversity. A diverse workforce, combined with an inclusive culture, makes USPI stronger and better able to meet the needs of our diverse patient and physician population.
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