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First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UVA Health

Surgical First Assistant

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$30.55 - $49.61/hr

Surgical First Assistant Job Code: SS1701 4 ten hour days 0700-1730 with one call shift per week 1730-0700 and every 4th weekend Friday 1730-Monday 0700. ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of ...

LifeCenter Northwest

Surgical First Assist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$99K - $148K/yr

The Surgical First Assist (SFA) is accountable for all activities related to the surgical recovery and safe preservation of organs from donors. SFA's wear many different 'Scrub-Hats' in the delicate ...

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 ...

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First Assistant information

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$133.5K

$191.5K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 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 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's the easiest hospital job to get?

The easiest hospital job to get is often a patient transporter or hospital aide, which typically requires minimal formal education and on-the-job training. These roles usually have high turnover and may not require certifications, making them accessible entry-level positions in healthcare settings.

How much do first assistants make per hour?

First assistants typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often work in fast-paced environments and may require skills in organization and communication.

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.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and advanced healthcare facilities, such as metropolitan areas or states with strong medical industries. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of surgeries also influence earning potential, with those working in specialized or high-demand surgical fields typically earning more.

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 producer by managing schedules, coordinating communication, and assisting with logistical tasks. They may also handle administrative duties, oversee daily operations, and ensure the smooth flow of the project. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of production processes are essential for this role.
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
Infographic showing various First Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,451 per year, or $64.2 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

Physicians Regional Medical Center - Collier

Naples, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Description

Surgical First Assistant

New Grads Welcome To Apply!

Our Benefits

  • Up to 10,000 Student Loan Repayment 
  • Health, Medical, Dental, & Vision 
  • Paid Time Off PTO 
  • Life Insurance coverage 
  • 401(k) with match 
  • Tuition reimbursement 
  • Sunny Naples, Florida


Shift:

  • Full-Time 
  • Days
  • 45 minute call
  • Physicians Regional Collier:  8300 Collier Blvd, Naples, FL 34114

Physicians Regional – Surgical Services

  • Join a high-performing team utilizing state-of-the-art technology, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted systems, across a wide range of medical specialties
  • Practice in a modern, fast-paced environment where your technical expertise is vital to ensuring surgical excellence and patient safety

Job Summary
The Surgical Technician First Assist provides direct support to surgeons during surgical procedures, ensuring efficient operative and invasive procedures by maintaining the sterile field, providing necessary instruments and supplies, and assisting in critical surgical tasks. This role requires advanced technical skills to support the surgical team, including positioning patients, retracting tissues, controlling bleeding, suturing, and applying dressings. The Surgical Technician First Assist collaborates with surgeons, nurses, and other surgical team members to ensure optimal patient outcomes and post-operative care.
Essential Functions

  • Functions as a scrub person during surgical procedures, preparing and organizing sterile supplies and instruments, maintaining an organized sterile field, and providing necessary instruments and supplies to the surgical team.
  • Performs first assistant duties, including providing exposure through instrument handling, retractors, suctioning, and sponging techniques as directed by the surgeon.
  • Handles and dissects tissues, clamps blood vessels, coagulates bleeding points, and places drains as instructed by the surgeon.
  • Assists with wound closure, including suturing subcutaneous layers and skin, applying staples, and dressing surgical sites per surgeon instructions.
  • Ensures sterility and safety standards, conducting proper counting procedures with the RN circulator, following infection control protocols, and taking corrective actions if needed.
  • Prepares and transports surgical instruments for decontamination, ensuring proper handling and sterilization for future use.
  • Assists in post-procedure room turnover, ensuring procedural areas are properly cleaned and prepared for subsequent surgeries.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

  • 1-3 years of experience as a Surgical Technician or First Assist in an acute care setting required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Proficiency in surgical techniques, aseptic principles, and sterile field maintenance.
  • Strong knowledge of surgical anatomy, instrumentation, and procedural workflows.
  • Ability to anticipate surgeon needs and respond quickly to intraoperative changes.
  • Strong attention to detail in surgical counting procedures, patient positioning, and procedural safety.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills, ensuring smooth collaboration with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesia providers.
  • Knowledge of infection control standards, regulatory compliance, and patient safety guidelines.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure surgical environment, demonstrating composure and professionalism.

Licenses and Certifications

  • CST - Certified Surgical Technologist required and
  • Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) through NBSTSA required or
  • Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) through NSAA required
  • BCLS - Basic Life Support required
  • ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred

Apply