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Surgical First Assist Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Mercy

Certified Surgical Tech - FA Main OR

Anoka, MN · On-site

Certified Surgical Technologist First Assist (CSTFA) Main Operating Room | Level I Trauma Center Mercy Hospital St. Louis | St. Louis, Missouri Position Summary The Certified Surgical Technologist ...

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Surgical First Assist information

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$16

$36

$74

How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assist in Minnesota is $36.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.42 and $40.96 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.

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Surgical First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,703 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

Travel Surgical First Assistant - $2,054 per week

Travel Nurses Inc

Winona, MN • On-site

$2.0K/wk

Other

Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Travel Nurses, Inc. is seeking a travel Surgical First Assistant for a travel job in Winona, Minnesota.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Surgical First Assistant
  • Discipline: Allied Health Professional
  • Start Date: ASAP
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel

Looking for a great Travel Surgical First Assistant Job in Winona, Minnesota? Travel Nurses, Inc. posted this Surgical First Assistant Travel Allied Health Job that offers 36 hours a week for 13 weeks in Winona, Minnesota.

Vivian Health provides transparent Travel Surgical First Assistant Salary information and unbiased reviews from leading Travel Allied Health Agencies across the United States, so you can compare travel opportunities matching your desired criteria.

With Vivian, you can chat directly with recruiters and apply to staffing agencies with a Single Reusable Profile to find your ideal job faster and easier than ever.

The details for this Travel Surgical First Assistant Job are:

  • Specialty: Surgical First Assistant
  • Job Location: Winona, Minnesota
  • Travel Allied Health Salary: $2,054/week
  • Start Date: ASAP
  • Assignment Length: 13 weeks
  • Total Hours Per Week: 36 weekly
  • Shift Breakdown: 3x12 hrs
  • Shift: 12 hours

Travel Nurses, Inc. Job ID #343760. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: CSFA (Certified Surgical First Assist)

About Travel Nurses, Inc.

Travel Nurses, Inc. is a nurse-founded and operated healthcare staffing agency connecting nurses and allied health professionals with opportunities nationwide. Since 1988, we’ve grown from supporting operating room teams in the Mid-South to serving a wide range of specialties across the country.

At our core, we believe healthcare professionals are the foundation of care. That belief drives everything we do, from how we support our clinicians to how we build long-term relationships.

We are committed to making travel simple, transparent and rewarding. With clear pay packages, dedicated recruiter support and a focus on career mobility, our clinicians can move forward with confidence.

Wherever your career takes you, you’ll never go alone.

Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Life insurance

Apply