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Spine Surgery First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

APS Health

Functions as a Surgical First Assistant in the Operating Room * Positions and drapes the patient ... spine surgery * Current TN State License * Board certified by NCCPA * Active BLS and ACLS

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Spine Surgery First Assistant information

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$62

How much do spine surgery first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for spine surgery 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.

What is a spine surgery first assistant?

A Spine Surgery First Assistant is a trained medical professional who assists the primary surgeon during spinal surgeries. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, positioning patients, passing instruments, controlling bleeding, and helping with wound closure. They work closely with the surgical team to ensure procedures run smoothly and safely. The role requires specialized knowledge of spine anatomy and surgical techniques, and these assistants can be physician assistants, nurse practitioners, or surgical technologists with additional training in spine surgery.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics between a spine surgery first assistant and the surgical team during procedures?

As a Spine Surgery First Assistant, you will work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, scrub nurses, and surgical technologists throughout each procedure. Your responsibilities often include preparing the operating room, positioning patients, assisting with exposure and instrumentation, and providing critical support during complex spinal surgeries. Effective communication and situational awareness are essential, as you must anticipate the surgeon’s needs and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. This collaborative environment fosters continuous learning and is key to delivering optimal patient outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a spine surgery first assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spine Surgery First Assistant, you need advanced knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques, typically supported by a certification such as CSA or CSFA and relevant clinical experience. Familiarity with surgical instruments, intraoperative imaging systems, and electronic health records is vital. Exceptional attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set top professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure patient safety, surgical efficiency, and optimal outcomes in complex spine operations.

What are popular job titles related to Spine Surgery First Assistant jobs?

For Spine Surgery First Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Spine Surgery First Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,122 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Local Contract Physician Assistant - Orthopedic Surgery

Downey, CA • On-site

Medlivo
See more jobs at Medlivoexternal

$100 - $120/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Medlivo is seeking a Physician Assistant Orthopedic Surgery for a local contract job in Downey, California.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Orthopedic Surgery
  • Discipline: Physician Assistant
  • Duration: 11 weeks
  • 38 hours per week
  • Shift: 8 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Local Contract

Orthopedic Surgery NP/PA – Spine First Assist Locum Opportunity | Downey, CA

We are seeking an experienced Orthopedic Surgery Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to provide locum coverage at a leading hospital in Downey, California. This assignment offers the opportunity to work alongside a highly specialized spine surgery team performing complex and advanced procedures.

Assignment Details

  • Location: Downey, CA
  • Duration: October 2026 – March 2027 (possible extension)
  • Schedule: 4x10-hour shifts per week, including every other weekend
  • Setting: Hospital
  • Compensation: $100–$120/hr 

Responsibilities

  • Serve as First Assist on complex spine surgeries, including spinal fusions, deformity corrections, revision procedures, trauma cases, and minimally invasive spine surgeries.
  • Assist with surgical exposure, instrumentation placement, wound closure, and intraoperative support.
  • Review patient history, imaging, and surgical plans with attending surgeons.
  • Participate in postoperative care, documentation, and patient handoffs.

Requirements

  • Board Certified NP or PA
  • Active California License
  • BLS & ACLS (AHA)
  • First Assist Certification required for NPs
  • Demonstrated Spine Surgery First Assist experience
  • Strong knowledge of spinal anatomy, instrumentation, and complex wound closure techniques

Additional Information

  • Estimated credentialing timeframe: 90 days
  • Potential after-hours pager call for urgent surgical cases
  • EPIC EMR experience preferred

If you're interested in learning more, please send your CV and availability for consideration.

About Medlivo


Benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Health Care FSA
  • Life insurance
  • Sick pay
  • Holiday Pay
  • Medical benefits

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