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Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant information

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$13

$27

$62

How much do orthopedic surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for orthopedic surgical first assistant in the United States is $27.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become an orthopedic surgical first assistant?

To become an orthopedic surgical first assistant, one typically needs to complete a formal education program such as a surgical assisting or physician assistant program, obtain certification like the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) credential, and gain clinical experience in surgical settings. Licensing or certification requirements vary by state or country, and strong knowledge of anatomy, surgical procedures, and sterile techniques are essential.

What is an orthopedic surgical first assistant?

An Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant is a trained healthcare professional who assists orthopedic surgeons during surgical procedures. They are responsible for tasks such as preparing the surgical site, handling instruments, providing exposure of the operative area, and assisting with suturing and wound closure. Their expertise helps ensure surgeries are performed efficiently and safely. Orthopedic Surgical First Assistants often have backgrounds as physician assistants, registered nurses, or surgical technologists with specialized training in orthopedics.

What is the difference between Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectOrthopedic Surgical First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified First Assistant (CFA), surgical assisting certificationsPost-secondary education, certification (e.g., CST)
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms during orthopedic surgeriesAssist in various surgeries, including orthopedic, in operating rooms
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers specializing in orthopedicsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers across multiple specialties

Orthopedic Surgical First Assistants and Surgical Technologists both work in operating rooms, but the first assistant has advanced certifications and directly supports surgeons during orthopedic procedures. Surgical Technologists prepare the operating room and assist with instrument handling, but do not provide direct surgical assistance. The roles differ mainly in level of responsibility, certification, and scope of practice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an orthopedic surgical first assistant?

To thrive as an Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant, you need advanced knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques, typically supported by certification such as CSFA or SA-C and relevant clinical experience. Familiarity with surgical instruments, orthopedic-specific equipment, and electronic medical record (EMR) systems is crucial. Exceptional teamwork, communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring patient safety, efficient surgical procedures, and effective collaboration with the surgical team.

What are some common challenges faced by orthopedic surgical first assistants during procedures, and how can they be addressed?

Orthopedic Surgical First Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing complex instrumentation, adapting to unexpected changes during surgery, and maintaining clear communication with surgeons and the operating room team. These challenges can be addressed by thorough preoperative preparation, continuous education on the latest surgical techniques, and fostering strong teamwork skills. Proactively anticipating the surgeon's needs and being adaptable in high-pressure situations are key to ensuring positive surgical outcomes and a smooth workflow.
More about Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Orthopedic Surgical First Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 83% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,122 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

UVA Health

Culpeper, VA • On-site

$42.06/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


UVA Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 184 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

378th of 887 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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