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Rn First Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Travel RN First Assistant

Lakeport, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Assured Nursing is seeking a travel nurse RN First Assist for a travel nursing job in Lakeport, California. & Requirements * Specialty: First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/07/2026

Bestica is seeking a travel nurse RN First Assist for a travel nursing job in Lodi, California. & Requirements * Specialty: First Assist * Discipline: RN * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week

Showing results 41-60

Rn First Assistant information

See California salary details

$35K

$105.4K

$182.6K

How much do rn first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for rn first assistant in California is $105,407.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $127,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectRn First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsRegistered Nurse license, First Assistant certificationCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) or Tech certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, operating roomsOperating rooms, surgical suites, hospitals
Role FocusAssists surgeons during procedures, provides intraoperative supportPrepares operating rooms, sterilizes instruments, assists during surgery

While both roles support surgical teams, Rn First Assistants have advanced nursing credentials and directly assist surgeons during procedures, whereas Surgical Technologists prepare the surgical environment and assist indirectly. Rn First Assistants typically require more advanced certifications and have a broader scope of intraoperative responsibilities.

What is an RN First Assistant?

RN First Assistants (Registered Nurse First Assistants) are specialized registered nurses who work alongside surgeons and surgical teams during operations. They play a critical role in patient care by assisting with surgical procedures, providing direct patient care before, during, and after surgery, and helping to ensure the best possible outcomes. RNFAs are trained in advanced surgical techniques, such as suturing, controlling bleeding, and handling tissues, and they must have additional education and certification beyond standard registered nurse credentials.

What are the most common challenges faced by an RN First Assistant in the operating room?

As an RN First Assistant, one of the most common challenges is balancing direct surgical responsibilities with maintaining patient safety and effective communication within a fast-paced environment. You'll often need to anticipate the needs of the surgical team and adapt quickly to unexpected situations during procedures. Collaboration with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other OR staff is crucial, and handling stressful or high-pressure moments with composure is a key part of the role. Continuous learning and staying updated with surgical techniques also help in overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RN First Assistant?

To thrive as an RN First Assistant, you need advanced clinical knowledge in perioperative nursing, surgical procedures, and patient assessment, typically supported by RN licensure, perioperative experience, and CNOR or RNFA certification. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterile technique, and electronic health records is essential for this role. Strong communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills help you collaborate effectively with surgical teams and respond quickly in high-pressure situations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring patient safety, reducing complications, and supporting optimal surgical outcomes.

What are popular job titles related to Rn First Assistant jobs in California?

For Rn First Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rn First Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Rn First Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Rn First Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Rn First Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Rn First Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,407 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

RN - First Assist

Adventist Health Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA โ€ข On-site

$2.9K/wk

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Details
Client Name
Adventist Health Bakersfield (AHBD)
Job Type
Travel
Offering
Nursing
Profession
Registered Nurse (RN)
Specialty
First Assist
Job ID
36784180
Job Title
RN - First Assist
Weekly Pay
$2911.6
Shift Details
Shift
Days - 4 x 10
Scheduled Hours
40
Job Order Details
Start Date
08/03/2026
End Date
09/26/2026
Duration
13 Week(s)
Job Description
Title: RN First Assist - Surgical
Schedule: Shift: 0700-1730
Assignment Details:
- Contract Length: 8 Weeks
- Guaranteed Hours: Scheduled hours are billable unless voluntarily called off.
Requirements:
- CA RN License required.
- Certification of completion of an approved didactic RN First Assist course: Required.
- Three years scrub and circulate experience in an acute care facility: Required.
- Annual surgeon review: Required.
- AHA BLS required.
- AHA ACLS required.
- Certified Nurse, Operating Room (CNOR): Required.
- AHA PALS preferred.
- Current Professional Liability Insurance required.
- Minimum 6 months of Epic experience within the last 12 months; Cerner experience also required.
Compliance / Notes:
- Must start by 8/24/26.
- Orientation on August 3rd or August 17th.
Client Details
Address
2615 Chester Ave
City
Bakersfield
State
CA
Zip Code
93301
Job Board Disclaimer
TLC Nursing Associates, Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer and fully complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under the law.
Accuracy of Information: All job listings are subject to change, and while we strive to ensure that all job information, including job descriptions, pay packages, and shift details, is accurate and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee the availability or specifics of any position at the time of application. Pay packages and shift availability may vary based on facility needs and may be subject to changes before or after hire.