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Surgical First Assist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

CT Assist

Travel Surgical First Assistant

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$2.0K - $3.0K/wk

Surgical First Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel * CVOR CSFA * 3+ years EVH ...

Parkview Health

Certified Surgical First Asst

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$19.07 - $28.61/hr

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 ...

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Surgical First Assist information

See Indiana salary details

$15

$35

$72

How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 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.
What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assist jobs in Indiana? For Surgical First Assist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assist jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assist jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assist jobs in IN? For Surgical First Assist jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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.

Travel Surgical First Assistant

CT Assist

Lafayette, IN • On-site

$2.0K - $3.0K/wk

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

CT Assist is seeking a travel Surgical First Assistant for a travel job in Lafayette, Indiana.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Surgical First Assistant
  • Discipline: Allied Health Professional
  • Start Date: ASAP
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 8 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel
  • CVOR CSFA
  • 3+ years EVH experience
  • M-F, Days
  • Rotating Call
  • Indiana
  • Must have 3 or more years of experience in cardiothoracic / cardiovascular surgery / CVICU -OR- equivalent case volume
  • Competitive compensation ($2000-$3000/week based on related experience/case volume + $1148/week tax free stipend) and benefits packages
  • Certified by The Joint Commission
  • Full benefits package

CT Assist is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, veteran status, age, disability, medical conditions, genetics, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in every location in which CT Assist conducts business.
 
KEYWORDS: PA, NP, cardiothoracic, cardiovascular, cardiac, endoscopic vein harvest, EVH, CVOR, CABG, thoracentesis, central line, arterial line, chest tube, ICU, CVICU, CTICU, CCU, stepdown

CT Assist Job ID #4231. Pay package is based on 8 hour shifts and 40 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Allied Health Professional

About CT Assist

Why Are We Different? CT Assist Healthcare Staffing is the only staffing company that exclusively serves:
·   CVOR
·   CVICU & ICU
·   Perfusion
·   Advanced Practice
Why only cardiac and critical care? We were founded and are managed by active and former cardiac staff, which means we know the needs, the skills, and the challenges of cardiac and critical care staffing. We are not just recruiters, but employers who have your goals in mind while connecting you with travel, per diem, and permanent opportunities.
Why Cardiac & Critical Care Practitioners Choose Us? Your career should be an adventure. CT Assist Healthcare Staffing specializes in making sure that the adventure is a smooth one. We offer outstanding benefits and assistance with housing and travel, including:
·      Competitive Compensation Packages
·   Company-paid premiums for health insurance (medical, vision & dental) 
·      Company-paid life and accident insurance
·      Company-paid liability insurance
·      401K Plan
·      Direct Deposit
·      Recruiters who focus on what’s best for you

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