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Nurse Practitioner First Assist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$73K - $99K/yr

Nurse Practitioner First Assist (NP FA) or Physician Assistant (PA) Key Responsibilities * Obtains and documents a health history; performs and documents complete, system-focused, or ...

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Nurse Practitioner First Assist information

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$41.5K

$130.3K

$200K

How much do nurse practitioner first assist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for nurse practitioner first assist in the United States is $130,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,000.00 and $150,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nurse practitioner first assist?

A Nurse Practitioner First Assist (NPFA) is an advanced practice registered nurse who is specially trained to assist surgeons during surgical procedures. In addition to their standard nurse practitioner responsibilities, they provide direct patient care in the operating room, such as suturing, controlling bleeding, and handling tissues. NPFAs work closely with the surgical team to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes throughout the perioperative period. They require specialized education, certification, and clinical experience in surgical assisting.

What are some common challenges nurse practitioner first assists face when working in surgical teams?

Nurse Practitioner First Assists often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced nature of the operating room, maintaining clear communication with surgeons and other team members, and staying current with evolving surgical techniques and protocols. Balancing patient care responsibilities before, during, and after surgery can also be demanding. Successful Nurse Practitioner First Assists proactively seek feedback and participate in ongoing education to continuously improve their skills and ensure patient safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nurse practitioner first assist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nurse Practitioner First Assist, you need advanced clinical knowledge, surgical assisting expertise, and an active NP license with additional First Assist certification. Familiarity with surgical instruments, electronic health records (EHRs), and perioperative protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for collaborating with surgical teams and supporting patient care. These competencies ensure safe, efficient surgical procedures and positive patient outcomes in high-pressure environments.

What is the difference between Nurse Practitioner First Assist vs Physician Assistant?

AspectNurse Practitioner First AssistPhysician Assistant
CredentialsMaster's or Doctoral degree in nursing, certification as First AssistMaster's degree in health sciences, certification as PA
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms, surgical teams, hospitalsHospitals, clinics, surgical settings
Roles & ResponsibilitiesAssist during surgeries, patient care pre/post-opPerform exams, diagnose, assist in surgeries
Industry UsageCommon in surgical teams, hospitalsBroadly in healthcare, including surgical support

Both Nurse Practitioner First Assist and Physician Assistant roles involve patient care and surgical support, but the First Assist specializes in assisting during surgeries with specific nursing credentials, while PAs have a broader scope in diagnosis and treatment across various settings.

What cities are hiring for Nurse Practitioner First Assist jobs?

Cities with the most Nurse Practitioner First Assist job openings:

What states have the most Nurse Practitioner First Assist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Nurse Practitioner First Assist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Nurse Practitioner First Assist jobs?

For Nurse Practitioner First Assist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Nurse Practitioner First Assist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,295 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Nurse Practitioner / Physician Assistant (Neurosurgery) - Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

HealthOp Solutions
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 10 employees

$108K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Nurse Practitioner / Physician Assistant (Neurosurgery) - Phoenix, AZ
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Hours & Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Work Environment: Inpatient hospital-based, working within a multidisciplinary neurosurgery team
Travel Required: No
Salary / Hourly Rate: $140k - $180k + Bonus ($225k possible on target take home earnings)
Bonus Offered: Yes
Benefits Offered: Competitive Health & Welfare Benefits, HSA with company match (HDHP plans), 401k with match (including part-time), Employee Assistance Program (24/7 support)
On Call Required: Optional overnight call with stipend available
Why work with us:
Join a highly respected multidisciplinary neurosurgical team known for exceptional patient care, collaborative teamwork, and outstanding surgical outcomes. We value clinical excellence, professional growth, and compassionate care for every patient.
What our ideal new team member looks like:
You're an experienced Advanced Practice Provider (APP) with at least 1-2 years in neurosurgery or a closely related surgical or critical care specialty. You're adaptable, confident in high-acuity settings, and comfortable rotating between the OR and floor-based care. You thrive in a collaborative environment and are eager to contribute to a team that prioritizes both technical skill and empathetic patient care.
Job Summary:
This full-time, inpatient-based APP role supports the neurosurgical service at a leading healthcare facility in Phoenix. Working closely with neurosurgeons, you'll manage patient care from initial consult to postoperative follow-up. This includes assisting in the operating room, performing procedures, and coordinating care across disciplines. Floor coverage and surgical first-assist responsibilities are shared within the APP team. Overnight call is optional and compensated.
Job Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Perform new consults, postoperative evaluations, and nonoperative follow-up visits
  • Obtain patient histories, conduct physical examinations, monitor therapies, and place orders
  • Participate in daily hospital rounds alongside attending surgeons
  • Coordinate care for neurosurgical patients in collaboration with physicians and other service lines
  • Communicate effectively across departments and with patient families
  • Complete appropriate documentation and discharge planning including prescriptions and follow-up
  • Perform bedside procedures as needed
  • First assist in the operating room on a rotating basis
  • Maintain strict patient confidentiality at all times
Prerequisites / License & Certification Requirements:
  • 1-2 Years Experience in Neurosurgery or Similar Field as an APP
  • NP/PA Program Completed in USA (Not Puerto Rico)
  • Arizona NP/PA License
  • NP first assist in OR: Completion of a program meeting AORN RNFA education standards
If you meet all of our criteria and would like to be considered, please apply with your most updated Resume/CV. Cover Letter and references are preferred but optional. We look forward to meeting with you!
Requirements
  • 1-2 Years Experience in Neurosurgery or Similar Field as an APP
  • NP/PA Program Completed in USA (Not Puerto Rico)
  • Arizona NP/PA License