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First Job Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Surgical First Assistant Job Code: SS1701 Work a minimum of 3 ten hour shifts 0700-1730 per 6 weeks and one call weekend call shift depending on departments needs per 6 weeks. ABOUT US We are ...

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 ...

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 ...

$38.60 - $53.08/hr

Overview The Surgical First Assistant serves as first or second assistant on all surgical cases, under the direction of the surgeon to provide technical assistance as required by the type of ...

$38.60 - $53.08/hr

Overview The Surgical First Assistant serves as first or second assistant on all surgical cases, under the direction of the surgeon to provide technical assistance as required by the type of ...

RNFA First Assist

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$1.9K/wk

First Assist RNFA Job Location: Norfolk, VA Profession: Registered Nurse First Assistant Estimated Pay: $1983.60 Duration (weeks): 13 Specialty: First Assist Shift Details: Day Estimated weekly pay ...

Eaton's ES AMER ESS division is currently seeking a Shipping Assembler - 1st Shift at our Oakleys Ct location in Richmond, VA. The hourly rate for this position is $19.47 per hour. Core hours are 7 ...

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First Job information

See Virginia salary details

$30.2K

$43.8K

$52.5K

How much do first job jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for first job in Virginia is $43,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,200.00 and $48,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first job?

First jobs are typically entry-level positions that individuals take early in their careers, often as their initial work experience. These roles can range from part-time or temporary jobs to internships and apprenticeships in various industries. First jobs help people develop basic workplace skills, build their resumes, and gain valuable insights into their career interests. They can also provide a stepping stone to more advanced positions as individuals gain confidence and experience. Many people use their first job as an opportunity to learn about professional expectations, teamwork, and time management.

What are some common challenges people face in their first job and how can they overcome them?

Starting your first job can come with challenges such as adapting to a professional environment, managing time effectively, and learning workplace expectations. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking feedback, asking questions, and observing experienced colleagues can help you adjust more smoothly. Building strong communication skills and being proactive in your responsibilities will also support your growth. Remember, most employers appreciate a willingness to learn and a positive attitude as you develop your skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in your first job, and why are they important?

To thrive in your first job, you generally need basic organizational skills, reliability, and a willingness to learn, along with any specific educational or training requirements for the position. Familiarity with common office software, point-of-sale systems, or role-specific tools may also be necessary. Strong communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude help new employees stand out and adapt quickly. These qualities are crucial for building a solid professional reputation, meeting expectations, and setting the foundation for future career growth.

What is the best job to get as a first job?

The best first job often depends on individual interests and goals, but entry-level positions such as retail associate, food service worker, or administrative assistant are common starting points. These roles typically require minimal experience, help develop basic skills like communication and time management, and may offer flexible schedules. Gaining experience in these roles can also provide a foundation for future career advancement.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for First Job jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most First Job job openings:

Infographic showing various First Job job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,784 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

UVA Health

Culpeper, VA • On-site

$42.06/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


UVA Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 184 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

381st of 889 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Surgical First Assistant

Job Code: SS1701
Work a minimum of 3 ten hour shifts 0700-1730 per 6 weeks and one call weekend call shift depending on departments needs per 6 weeks.

ABOUT US

We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world-class UVA Health academic health system, we are committed to caring for the whole person by building meaningful connections with our patients in the local setting of UVA Health's community hospitals, outpatient locations, and provider offices. By combining our team's talent and expertise, the breadth of capabilities across the entire UVA Health system, and our dedication to community wellness, we are bringing expert care close to home. As a member of the UVA Community Health team, individuals contribute to patient care decisions, support advanced medical technologies, and experience the satisfaction of making a difference in people's lives every day. 

JOB TYPE

Classification: Non Exempt

Supervises Positions:

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direct and indirect supervision of the attending physician and in a cohesive manner with all surgical staff functions in a surgical assist role, the Surgical Assistant assists the team in providing quality individualized patient care during all phases of the patient' surgical experience. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to the age of the patients served. Assesses data reflective of the patient' status and interpret the information needed to identify each patient' requirements relative to his or her age, specific needs and provides services as described in the department' policies and procedures.

Competencies

  • Communication: Collaborates with the leadership team to identify and resolve unit issues.
    • Keeps co-workers and intra-op staff informed of any updates/issues.
    • Follows written instructions as needed.
  • Quality: Complies with established departmental and organization policies/guidelines.
    • Maintains, operates, and monitors all equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations and department standards.
  • Technical Competency: Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to the age of the patients served.
    • Collects, organizes, and enters information into the patient scheduling application.
    • Assists with various types of surgical operations providing technically skilled duties, serving as surgical first assistant.
    • Demonstrates knowledge of instrumentation and sterile/aseptic technique.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Graduate of a recognized First Assist program with National Certification. O a physician from another country and practicing in the United States as a First Assistant, this is acceptable.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience as surgical first assistant preferred.

Licensure: Certified Surgical First Assistant required (unless a physician from another country). National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants (NCCSA) required.

Licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine as a Surgical First Assistant required.

Refer to the Life Support Training Policy for additional details.

Additional Skills/Requirements Required: Ability to successfully complete generic and department-specific skill validation and competency testing. Demonstrate effective and appropriate customer service skills, verbal and nonverbal communication techniques, interpersonal relationship skills, and time management skills. Surgical tech experience to be able to independently scrub Orthopedics, General, Robotics, Vascular, Gynecological, and Spine cases. Ability to independently cover surgical first assistant call as needed.

Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

 The incumbent may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned.

 PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Demand Code: Medium to Heavy Physical Demand: The job requires constant standing, frequently walking, and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills. Attention to detail and ability to write legibly. Ability to lift/push/pull 100 lbs. For any weight over 35 lbs., use Safe Handling Equipment. This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described. It may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of UVA Community Health.

OTHER

May require the use of safety equipment, such as HEPA mask, for infection prevention: Yes

On call responsibilities as directed: Yes

Ability to travel between campus buildings, remote facilities, and out of town as needed: Yes
The base compensation for this role is $42.06 hourly.  
Please note that the pay rate does not include any applicable incentive compensation programs such as shift differentials, clinical ladders, and other incentives that may be available for those in eligible positions.


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