ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Surgical First Assist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

UnityPoint Health

Midwife - Waterloo

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$97K - $121K/yr

Perform vaginal births, laceration repairs, and serve as first surgical assist for cesarean sections and gynecologic surgeries. * Triage, assess, and manage emergent obstetric patients in ...

UnityPoint Health

Midwife - Waterloo

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$91K - $114K/yr

Perform vaginal births, laceration repairs, and serve as first surgical assist for cesarean sections and gynecologic surgeries. * Triage, assess, and manage emergent obstetric patients in ...

UnityPoint Health

Surgical Tech

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

The Surgical Technologist is proficient in the role of first or second scrub person, or assistant circulator during procedures within one specialty area. Why UnityPoint Health? At UnityPoint Health ...

UnityPoint Health

Surgical Tech

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Proficient in the role of first or second scrub person, or assistant circulator during procedures within one specialty area. Could potentially hire a Surg Tech/LPN for this role as well. Why ...

UnityPoint Health

Nurse Midwife

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$97K - $121K/yr

Perform vaginal births, laceration repairs, and serve as first surgical assist for cesarean sections and gynecologic surgeries. * Triage, assess, and manage emergent obstetric patients in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSurgical First Assist JobsSurgical First Assist Jobs in Iowa

Surgical First Assist information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$35

$71

How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assist in Iowa is $35.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.22 and $39.28 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 Iowa?

For Surgical First Assist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assist jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assist jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assist jobs in IA?

For Surgical First Assist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Surgical First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,559 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Orthopedics Physician Assistant

RossRichter.com, LLC

Davenport, IA • On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Health Care System seeks a full-time Orthopedic Physician Assistant to work directly with a Sports Fellowship trained Orthopedic Surgeon. The doctor has a strong focus on shoulders and knees scopes, knee and shoulder replacement and fracture care. He utilizes the latest surgical techniques and has an excellent reputation in the community. The position includes both the OR and the clinic. There is the opportunity to work with athletes at different levels as well as provide event coverage (if desirable). The Physician Assistant will run a parallel clinic to the doctor. The Physician Assistant s responsibilities include: handling H&P s and provide surgical first assist, consultation and patient evaluation and education, and review lab results in both a clinic and hospital setting.
Successful Physician Assistant candidates should have some orthopedic experience, but the doctor will train. The location is within the Davenport area (Quad Cities). Great river front downtown hosting several colleges.
Compensation: Base salary range is open. Additionally, there is a full benefits package.

Apply