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Surgical First Assist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Travel Surgical First Assistant

Lafayette, IN ยท 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 ...

Certified Surgical First Asst

Warsaw, IN ยท 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 7, 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 can surgical first assistants do?

Surgical first assistants support surgeons during procedures by providing exposure, hemostasis, and tissue handling. They may also help with patient positioning, instrument management, and maintaining a sterile environment, often requiring certification and knowledge of surgical techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical first assist?

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 is a surgical first assist?

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.

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 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 healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas with large hospitals and specialized surgical centers. States or cities with a higher volume of complex surgeries and advanced medical facilities often offer increased compensation for this role.

How to become a surgical first assistant?

To become a surgical first assistant, individuals typically need to complete a relevant healthcare program such as a surgical technology or physician assistant program, obtain certification like the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), and gain clinical experience in surgical settings. Licensing requirements vary by state and facility, and strong knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques is essential.
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:
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Indiana as of August 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

First Connect Health

Fort Wayne, IN โ€ข On-site

Contractor

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

First Connect Health is seeking a travel Surgical First Assistant for a travel job in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Surgical First Assistant
  • Discipline: Allied Health Professional
  • Start Date: 08/24/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 10 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA / CSTFA) โ€“ Day Shift

  • Schedule: Day Shift | 4x10-Hour Shifts | 40 Hours Guaranteed Per Week
  • On-Call Protocol: No on-call duties required.
  • Scheduling Notes: Block scheduling is not guaranteed.
  • Assignment Length: 13-Week Contract (Start Date: 08/24/2026)
  • Local Traveler Policy: Candidates with a permanent address within 50 miles of the facility are subject to a 12% reduction.

Submission Hardstops [STRICT & NON-NEGOTIABLE]
  • Experience Baseline [HARDSTOP]: Minimum 2 years of active experience as a CSFA / Surgical Tech First Assist in an acute care hospital setting.
  • Robotic Surgical Competency [CRITICAL HARDSTOP]: Candidates MUST have demonstrated experience and technical proficiency assisting in robotic surgical cases.
  • NBSTSA Mandate [CRITICAL HARDSTOP]: Active CST certification MUST be issued through the NBSTSA (National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting). Other certifying bodies will be rejected.
  • EMR Mandate: Clinical documentation experience in Epic EMR is required.
  • Floating Protocol: Must be willing to float intradepartmentally (e.g., Ortho, Neuro surgical teams) based on operational needs.
  • Licensure & Certifications [IN-HAND AT SUBMISSION]:
    • Active CSFA (NBSTSA) certification.
    • Active CST (NBSTSA) credential.
    • Active AHA BLS (Basic Life Support) certification.
    • All RTO must be explicitly declared at submission.
About First Connect Health

At First Connect Health, we take pride in being a Joint Commissionโ€“certified healthcare staffing agency, headquartered in Newark, New Jersey. This prestigious certification is more than just a seal โ€” it's a reflection of our commitment to excellence, safety, and quality in everything we do.

By meeting the rigorous standards set by The Joint Commission, one of the most respected accrediting bodies in healthcare, we've demonstrated that our processes, compliance, and patient care standards are aligned with the highest levels of quality in the industry.

But our dedication goes beyond certifications. Nurses choose First Connect Health because:

  • โœ… Trust and Transparency: We foster honest communication, timely updates, and full transparency throughout your placement journey.
  • โœ… Best Pay & Benefits: We offer industry-leading compensation packages, along with benefits that support your career goals.
  • โœ… Flexibility & Choice: Whether you're seeking short-term assignments, long-term contracts, or local opportunities, we provide the flexibility to suit your preferences.
  • โœ… Personalized Support: Our recruiters take the time to understand your needs, guiding you with care, respect, and responsiveness at every step.

When you work with First Connect Health, you're not just another number โ€” you're a valued professional. Join a team thatโ€™s focused on your success, your well-being, and your future in healthcare.

Benefits
  • Sick pay
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Weekly pay
  • Referral bonus