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Surgical First Assist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Baptist Health

Certified Surgical Assist

New Albany, IN · On-site

Working under the direct supervision of the surgeon(s), the Surgical First Assist collaborates closely with the surgical team to provide safe, high-quality, efficient, continuous, and cost-effective ...

Baptist Health

Certified Surgical Assist

New Albany, IN · On-site

Working under the direct supervision of the surgeon(s), the Surgical First Assist collaborates closely with the surgical team to provide safe, high-quality, efficient, continuous, and cost-effective ...

Baptist Health

Certified Surgical Assist

New Albany, IN · On-site

Working under the direct supervision of the surgeon(s), the Surgical First Assist collaborates closely with the surgical team to provide safe, high-quality, efficient, continuous, and cost-effective ...

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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 23, 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 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 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 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.

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.

How long does it take to become a surgical first assist?

Becoming a surgical first assist typically requires completing a relevant healthcare degree, such as a physician assistant or nurse practitioner program, which takes about 2-4 years. Additionally, gaining specialized surgical assisting training and certification, such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) credential, can take several months to a year after completing the educational requirements.

What can a surgical first assistant do?

A surgical first assistant supports surgeons during procedures by providing exposure, hemostasis, tissue handling, and suturing. They work under the surgeon's supervision, often requiring certification and knowledge of surgical instruments and sterile techniques to ensure patient safety and efficient operation flow.

What degree do you need to be a surgical first assist?

To become a surgical first assist, individuals typically need to have a healthcare-related degree such as a registered nurse (RN), physician assistant (PA), or surgical technologist certification, along with specialized training and experience in surgical procedures. Many states also require certification from organizations like the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or the American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA).

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 with large hospitals and medical centers. States or cities with a higher volume of complex surgeries and advanced medical facilities often offer increased compensation for experienced surgical first assistants. Factors like certifications, experience, and working in specialized surgical environments 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,522 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Certified Surgical First Assistant

National Staffing Solutions

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

$2.4K - $2.8K/wk

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

At National Staffing Solutions, we have the privilege and honor of working with dedicated healthcare professionals that make a positive impact in aiding those needing healthcare services across the U.S. every day. 

It is our passion, drive and integrity that enables us to continue our focus in assisting remarkable healthcare professionals like yourself in solidifying the best career opportunities available to you.

We’re currently seeking a Certified Surgical First Assistant to join our amazing team.

Details of the Certified Surgical First Assistant opening:

  • Anticipated start date: 11/04/2024
  • Salary: $2474.01 - $2857.19 weekly
  • Anticipated duration of assignment: 13 weeks
  • Anticipated schedule: 4x10 Days
  • Enjoy peace of mind knowing you can elect Day One Medical Benefits

Daily Range of Responsibilities of the Certified Surgical First Assistant:

  • Positioning the patient for surgery and aiding with draping.
  • Clearing the area where the surgeon will operate and holding open incisions by using tissue retractors, sponges, or operating suction or irrigation equipment.
  • Selecting and passing instruments and supplies during an operation.
  • Stopping bleeding by sponging, clamping, tying, or cauterizing vessels, or suturing tissue layers as directed by the surgeon.
  • Applying dressings to surgical wounds.
  • Counting sponges, needles, and other materials before and after the operation.
  • Closing the incision at the end of the procedure.

Qualifications for the Certified Surgical First Assistant:

  • High school graduate or equivalent desired.
  • Certification from Technical School in Operating Room Technician preparatory program or Surgical Technician preparatory program.  .
  • Current State licensure or license eligible in States where applicable.
  • Completion of an accredited surgical first assistant program.
  • One or more year(s) of current experience in a comparable or equivalent job classification required.
  • Active Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) or Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification for HealthCare workers.
  • Compliant with HIPAA regulations; maintains strict confidentiality of client information.
  • Compliant with Infection Control, Standard Precautions and OSHA standards for the healthcare professional.

Submit your resume to us today for consideration of the Certified Surgical First Assistant opening and one of our dedicated recruiters will be in touch within 24 business hours.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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About National Staffing Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At National Staffing Solutions, we have the privilege and honor of working with dedicated healthcare professionals that make a positive impact in aiding those needing healthcare services across the U.S. every day.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Winter Park, FL, US

Year founded

2006

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