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Surgical First Assist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

HiredFirst

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.1K - $2.3K/wk

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) | Portland, OR Join a leading healthcare organization committed to delivering exceptional surgical care. Adventist Health Portland is seeking a skilled and ...

GQR

CSFA - Surgical

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.1K/day

Certified Surgical First Assistant Estimated Pay: $2116.00 Duration (weeks): Specialty: Surgical Shift Details: Day *Estimated weekly pay includes projected hourly wages and weekly meal and lodging ...

GQR Global Markets

CSFA Surgical

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.1K/day

Certified Surgical First Assistant Estimated Pay: $2116.00 Duration (weeks): Specialty: Surgical Shift Details: Day *Estimated weekly pay includes projected hourly wages and weekly meal and lodging ...

Grande Ronde Hospital

RNFA\CSFA

La Grande, OR · On-site

The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) provides perioperative support by assisting surgeons in the operating room before, during, and after surgical procedures. The RNFA performs advanced ...

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Surgical First Assist information

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How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assist in Oregon is $39.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.78 and $44.23 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 Oregon?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Surgical First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,802 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Portland, OR • On-site

HiredFirst
See more jobs at HiredFirstexternal

$2.1K - $2.3K/wk

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) | Portland, OR

Join a leading healthcare organization committed to delivering exceptional surgical care. Adventist Health Portland is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) to support surgeons in providing high-quality operative care in a fast-paced surgical environment.

As part of a multidisciplinary surgical team, you will play a key role in ensuring patient safety, maintaining sterile technique, and assisting in critical intraoperative procedures.

What You’ll Do:

  • Assist the primary surgeon during surgical procedures, including exposure, hemostasis, suturing, and tissue handling

  • Prepare and position patients for surgery while ensuring safety and comfort

  • Maintain a sterile operating environment and assist with surgical draping and setup

  • Perform wound closure and apply surgical dressings as directed

  • Verify surgical consent, patient history, diagnostic results, and operative readiness

  • Ensure availability and proper setup of surgical instruments, equipment, and implants

  • Assist with pre-operative and post-operative tasks to support optimal patient outcomes

  • Monitor operating room conditions including temperature, lighting, and equipment readiness

  • Collaborate closely with surgeons, nurses, and OR staff to ensure efficient procedures

What You’ll Bring:

  • High School Diploma or GED required

  • Associate’s Degree or equivalent experience preferred

  • Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) certification required

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required

  • Strong attention to detail and ability to perform in a high-pressure surgical setting

  • Ability to follow instructions and work under defined clinical parameters

Why Join Adventist Health Portland:
Adventist Health Portland has served East Portland since 1893 and continues to provide whole-person care across a wide network of services, including advanced cardiovascular care through the Northwest Heart Center. Located in a vibrant region offering outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and city life, this is a place where professional growth and lifestyle come together.

Join a team dedicated to surgical excellence and compassionate patient care—apply today.