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Surgical First Assist information

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$15

$35

$72

How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assist in Indiana is $35.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $39.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surgical First Assist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical First Assist, you need extensive knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques, usually backed by a clinical degree and certification such as the CSA or CSFA. Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room technology, and electronic medical records is essential. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure patient safety, effective teamwork, and optimal surgical outcomes.

What are Surgical First Assists?

Surgical First Assists, also known as surgical first assistants or first surgical assistants, are healthcare professionals who provide direct support to surgeons during surgical procedures. Their responsibilities include helping with patient positioning, maintaining a sterile field, controlling bleeding, suturing incisions, and ensuring the surgical team's efficiency and safety. They work closely with surgeons and other operating room staff to optimize patient outcomes and may be registered nurses, physician assistants, or other trained professionals with specialized surgical training.

Is surgical first assistant a good career?

A surgical first assistant is a trained healthcare professional who supports surgeons during procedures, requiring certification and strong knowledge of surgical techniques. The role offers steady employment, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization, making it a viable and rewarding career in healthcare. Job prospects are generally good due to ongoing demand for surgical support staff in hospitals and surgical centers.

How much does a surgical 1st assistant make?

Surgical first assistants typically earn between $50,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Certified surgical assistants with specialized skills and certifications tend to earn higher salaries, especially in urban hospitals or specialized surgical centers.

What is the difference between Surgical First Assist vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgical First AssistSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), RN with additional trainingCertified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentAssist during surgeries, work closely with surgeons in operating roomsPrepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment, assist during surgeries
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

While both roles support surgical teams, Surgical First Assistants actively assist during procedures and have advanced certifications, whereas Surgical Technologists primarily prepare the operating room and assist in non-sterile tasks. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job fit within surgical settings.

What does a first assistant do in surgery?

A surgical first assistant supports the surgeon during procedures by providing exposure, holding retractors, suctioning, and assisting with suturing and tissue handling. They must have knowledge of surgical techniques, sterile procedures, and often hold certifications such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA).

What are some typical challenges a Surgical First Assist might face during procedures, and how can they be addressed?

Surgical First Assists often encounter fast-paced, high-pressure environments where quick decision-making and adaptability are crucial. Challenges may include anticipating the surgeon's needs, maintaining sterility in unpredictable situations, and effectively communicating with the surgical team. To address these, developing strong situational awareness, enhancing technical skills through ongoing training, and fostering open communication with colleagues are essential. Proactively preparing for each case and participating in pre-operative briefings can also help mitigate common challenges.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for specialized healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas and states with large healthcare facilities. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in hospitals or surgical centers also influence earning potential.
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Surgical First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,522 per year, or $35.8 per hour.
Certified Surgical First Asst

Certified Surgical First Asst

Parkview Health

Fort Wayne, IN

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Parkview Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 274 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 890 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Summary

Under the Perioperative leader, assumes responsibility and accountability for assuring quality care as a health care team member within the Perioperative environment. The scope of responsibility of the Certified Surgical First Assistant includes the ability to anticipate, plan for, and respond to the needs of the patient, surgeon, and other team members. In addition the CSFA participates in and actively assists the surgeon in completing the operation safely and expeditiously by helping to provide exposure, maintain hemostasis, and other technical functions. Maintains confidentiality of information regarding patients, patient families, coworkers, and physicians.

Education

Must have a high school diploma or the equivalent GED. Must be a graduate from surgical assisting program accredited through ARC/STSA, a collaborative effort of ASA, ACS, and SASA, by CAAHEP. CAAHEP is a recognized accreditation agency of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Licensure/Certification

Must have a certification for surgical first assistant obtained through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Maintains certification by earning approved continuing education or by successfully retaking the certifying examination at the conclusion of the renewal period. Must maintain current CPR certification.

Experience

Healthcare experience preferred.

Other Qualifications

Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of general computer skills and applications. Must be able to lift 50 pounds; 100 pounds shared lifting. Requires knowledge of specialized first assistant techniques, procedures and adequate equipment related to hemostasis, retracting and suturing.

What Parkview Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Parkview Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Parkview Health, headquartered in Fort Wayne, IN, US, operates within the healthcare industry providing a wide range of medical services and community wellness programs. These include primary care, specialty health services, emergency care, rehabilitation, and home health services among others. The non-profit health system was founded in 1878 and continues to serve its surrounding communities with a dedication to quality health and wellness.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Wayne, IN, US

Year founded

1995

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