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First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UVA Health

Surgical First Assistant

Culpeper, VA

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 welcoming a new era in health ...

McDonald's

First Assistant Manager

Canton, NC · On-site

The First Assistant is the right-hand person to the General manager and are trained to manage all aspects of the business when the GM is not available. They are an intricate part of the restaurant ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the OR team. This role will be full-time, day shift, 4-10 hour shifts, schedule will vary. We offer great pay ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Falls Church, VA · On-site

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. We offer great pay based on ...

McDonald's

First Assistant Manager

Canton, NC · On-site

The First Assistant is the right-hand person to the General manager and are trained to manage all aspects of the business when the GM is not available. They are an intricate part of the restaurant ...

McDonald's

First Assistant Manager

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

The First Assistant is the right-hand person to the General manager and are trained to manage all aspects of the business when the GM is not available. They are an intricate part of the restaurant ...

Beebe Healthcare

SURGICAL FIRST ASSIST

Lewes, DE · On-site

$44.69/hr

Pet Insurance Overview The Surgical First Assist provides direct support to the surgeon during surgical procedures. This role involves assisting in surgery, performing specific tasks under the ...

Bebee Healthcare

SURGICAL FIRST ASSIST

Lewes, DE · On-site

$28.83/hr

Pet Insurance Overview The Surgical First Assist provides direct support to the surgeon during surgical procedures. This role involves assisting in surgery, performing specific tasks under the ...

McDonald's

First Assistant Manager

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

The First Assistant is the right-hand person to the General manager and are trained to manage all aspects of the business when the GM is not available. They are an intricate part of the restaurant ...

McDonald's

First Assistant Manager

Flat Rock, NC · On-site

The First Assistant is the right-hand person to the General manager and are trained to manage all aspects of the business when the GM is not available. They are an intricate part of the restaurant ...

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First Assistant information

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$32.5K

$133.5K

$191.5K

How much do first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 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
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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 Assist

Surgical First Assist

Riverview Health

Noblesville, IN

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Riverview Health rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

766th of 989 rated hospitals

Job description

Description
Job Responsibilities
  • Drape and position the patient in the operating suite.
  • Act as first or second assist to the surgeon.
  • Obtain and prepare vascular conduits for cardiac bypass grafting.
  • Close and dress surgical incisions.
  • Maintains current knowledge by participating in training sessions, symposiums, and didactic courses.
  • Take action to provide a safe, efficient environment for the care of the surgical patient while protecting the patient's inherent right to privacy, dignity and safety.
  • Take call for weekends, holidays and weeknights and arrive within 30 minutes of hospital for on-call assignments.
  • Attend mandatory education offering and department meetings.
  • Other duties as assigned

Education Requirements
  • Minimum: Graduated from an approved / accredited Surgical Technology program and a graduate of a Certified Surgical First Assistant program. Holds current certification in the state of Indiana
  • Preferred: Clinical competence including but not limited to cardiovascular / thoracic intra operative care, including extensive experience in traditional and endoscopic conduit harvesting

Experience Requirements
  • Minimum: Two (2) years' clinical experience.
  • Preferred: Three (3) years' appropriate area experience, da Vinci robot experience

License / Certification Requirements
  • BLS (American Heart Association)
  • Certified Sugical First Assistant (CSFA)

Qualifications
Education
Technical/other training or better in Surgical Technology or related field.
Licenses & Certifications
BLS- Basic Life Support
Cert Surg First Assistant

What Riverview Health employees say

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