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Jax Spine & Pain Centers

First Assist

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

The First Assist provides intraoperative surgical assistance to the surgeon during surgical procedures. This role supports the surgical team in ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care ...

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How much do surgeon assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgeon assistant in the United States is $22.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid surgical assistant?

The highest paid surgical assistants are often those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or certifications in high-demand areas such as cardiovascular or neurosurgery. Salaries can reach over $70,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on the region, employer, and level of expertise. Advanced training and working in specialized surgical environments typically lead to higher compensation for surgical assistants.

What do surgical assistants do?

Surgical assistants support surgeons during procedures by preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and helping with patient positioning. They may also handle suturing, tissue manipulation, and other tasks under the surgeon's supervision, requiring knowledge of surgical techniques and tools. Their role is essential for ensuring smooth and efficient surgeries in a sterile environment.

How do you become a surgeon's assistant?

To become a surgeon's assistant, one typically needs to complete a bachelor's degree followed by specialized training or a certification program in surgical assisting. Many assistants also obtain certification from organizations like the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or the American Association of Surgical Assistants (AASA), and must develop strong knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surgeon Assistant, and why are they important?

To excel as a Surgeon Assistant, you need a solid background in surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques, often backed by a degree or certification as a surgical technologist or assistant. Familiarity with operating room equipment, electronic medical records, and standard surgical instruments is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help Surgeon Assistants anticipate surgeons' needs and ensure smooth operations. These competencies are vital for maintaining patient safety, supporting efficient procedures, and contributing to successful surgical outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by Surgeon Assistants during surgical procedures?

Surgeon Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining focus during long and complex surgeries, quickly adapting to unexpected changes, and ensuring strict adherence to sterile techniques. They must also communicate effectively with the surgical team and anticipate the needs of the surgeon to keep procedures running smoothly. Balancing these responsibilities while working in high-pressure environments requires strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under stress.

What are Surgeon Assistants?

Surgeon Assistants, also known as surgical assistants or first assistants, are medical professionals who provide direct support to surgeons during surgical procedures. They help with tasks such as suturing incisions, controlling bleeding, and positioning patients to ensure optimal access for the surgeon. In addition to assisting in the operating room, they may also help prepare the surgical team, maintain sterile conditions, and provide post-operative care. Surgeon Assistants typically have specialized training and may be certified, depending on regional regulations. Their role is crucial for ensuring that surgeries are conducted efficiently and safely.

What qualifications do you need to be a surgical assistant?

To become a surgical assistant, candidates typically need a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in surgical technology or a related field, along with certification such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA). Relevant clinical experience and strong knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques are also important. Licensing requirements vary by region but generally include demonstrating competency through certification or credentialing processes.

What is the difference between Surgeon Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgeon AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical Assistant (CSA), Physician Assistant (PA-C) with surgical trainingCertified Surgical Technologist (CST), Certified Tech (CST)
Work EnvironmentAssist during surgeries, work closely with surgeons in operating roomsPrepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, assist in setup
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient facilities

While both roles support surgical teams, Surgeon Assistants actively participate in surgeries, providing direct patient care and assisting surgeons, whereas Surgical Technologists focus on preparing the operating environment and instruments. Surgeons Assistants typically require advanced certifications and work more directly in the surgical procedure itself.

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What states have the most Surgeon Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Surgeon Assistant jobs include:
Surgeon Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgeon Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,495 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
First Assist

First Assist

Jax Spine & Pain Centers

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

The First Assist provides intraoperative surgical assistance to the surgeon during surgical procedures. This role supports the surgical team in ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care by assisting with exposure, hemostasis, tissue handling, suturing, and other technical surgical tasks. The First Assist works closely with surgeons, anesthesiology staff, circulating nurses, and surgical technologists to ensure optimal surgical outcomes.
This position has full-time and/or part-time availability.

Essential Functions:

Surgical Assistance:
  • Provide direct intraoperative assistance to the surgeon during surgery.
  • Assist with exposure, retraction, suctioning, and maintaining a clear surgical field.
  • Perform suturing, ligation, cauterization, and closure of surgical incisions as directed by the surgeon.
  • Assist with placement of surgical implants, instrumentation, and specialized equipment.
  • Provide retraction when necessary. Manage tissue and implant handling during procedures.
  • Anticipate surgeon needs and ensure appropriate instruments and supplies are available.

Preoperative Support:
  • Participate in preoperative patient preparation and positioning.
  • Review surgical plans and preference cards to ensure readiness for procedures.
  • Ensure all surgical equipment and instruments are available and functioning properly.

Postoperative Care:
  • Assist with wound closure and dressing application.
  • Participate in patient transfer if needed.

Compliance & Safety:
  • Maintain strict adherence to sterile techniques and infection control standards.
  • Follow all facility policies, regulatory requirements, and safety protocols.
  • Ensure compliance with operating room standards and documentation requirements.

Team Collaboration:
  • Work collaboratively with surgeons, operating room nurses, anesthesia staff, and surgical technologists.
  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives and patient safety programs.
  • Provide support and mentorship to surgical staff when needed.

Qualifications:

Education:
One of the following is required:
  • Completion of an accredited Surgical First Assistant (SFA) program.
  • Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA).
  • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) with First Assist certification.

Certifications:
Preferred certifications may include:
  • CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant.
  • CRNFA - Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant.
  • Current BLS and/or ACLS certification.

Experience:
  • Minimum 2 years of surgical assisting experience preferred.
  • Experience with spine procedures, orthopedics and total joint replacements strongly preferred.

Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of surgical anatomy and sterile technique.
  • Ability to anticipate surgeon needs during complex procedures.
  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced operating room environment.
  • Strong attention to detail and patient safety.

Work Environment:
  • Operating room or outpatient surgical center setting.
  • Prolonged standing and physical activity during surgical procedures.
  • Exposure to surgical equipment, bodily fluids, and sterile environments.