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Surgical First Assist Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Delta Companies, The

Surgery - General

Kearney, NE

$550K/yr

Growing program needing fourth surgeon * 1st assist APP assigned to you * Physician Led with Exceptional Culture/Collegiality * Just added 8th OR * 300,000 Patient Draw Area and large referral base

Bryan Health

Surgical Technologist

Lincoln, NE

SUMMARY The Surgical Technologist functions as a member of the multidisciplinary team providing a ... Will not first assist with any procedure; will not do any incision closures. *May apply skin ...

Bryan Health

Surgical Technologist

Lincoln, NE · On-site

SUMMARY The Surgical Technologist functions as a member of the multidisciplinary team providing a ... Will not first assist with any procedure; will not do any incision closures. *May apply skin ...

Bryan Health

Surgical Technologist

Lincoln, NE · On-site

SUMMARY The Surgical Technologist functions as a member of the multidisciplinary team providing a ... Will not first assist with any procedure; will not do any incision closures. *May apply skin ...

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Surgical First Assist information

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$15

$35

$72

How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assist in Nebraska is $35.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.65 and $39.90 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 Nebraska?

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

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

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

What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Surgical First Assist jobs?

Cities in Nebraska with the most Surgical First Assist job openings:

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

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

Surgical First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,670 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

Lincoln, NE • On-site

Lincoln Surgical Hospital
Health Care and Social Assistance • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Lincoln Surgical Hospitalexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Join Our Elite Team: $15,000 Sign-On Bonus Included!
Lincoln Surgical Hospital is a regional leader in innovative, patient-focused healthcare. We are seeking an Extraordinary Surgical First Assistant who thrives in a high-standard, collaborative environment. If you are dedicated to achieving optimal surgical outcomes and providing top-tier patient care, we want to meet you.
The Schedule:
  • Full-Time: 80 hours per pay period (bi-weekly).
  • Hours: Monday - Friday, 6:00 am - 7:00 pm (No weekends/holidays).

Key Responsibilities:
As a vital member of our surgical team, you will:
  • Coordinate & Prep: Partner with circulating nurses to select equipment, pull instrumentation, and ensure the OR is meticulously prepared.
  • Clinical Excellence: Maintain sterile technique while scrubbing, gowning, and gloving; assist surgeons with positioning, hemostasis, and wound dressings.
  • Anticipate Needs: Use physician preference cards to proactively manage instruments, ligatures, and irrigation during procedures.
  • Operational Support: Assist with room turnover, disinfection, and inventory management to keep our facility running at peak efficiency.

  • Education: Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program.
  • Licensure: Current Nebraska Surgical First Assistant license required at hire.
  • Certifications: Current BLS required; must obtain Surgical Technologist Certification within 6 months of hire.

Why Lincoln Surgical Hospital?
Beyond our $10,000 sign-on bonus, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your life and career:
  • Financial Security: 401(k) with company match and Life/Disability insurance.
  • Health & Wellness: Premium Health, Dental, and Vision plans, plus 24/7 access to our onsite Wellness Center.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and uniform reimbursement.
  • Growth: Tuition reimbursement to help you reach your professional goals

Apply