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Surgical First Assist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Surgical First Assistant Job Code: SS1701 Work a minimum of 3 ten hour shifts 0700-1730 per 6 weeks and one call weekend call shift depending on departments needs per 6 weeks. ABOUT US We are ...

Inova Alexandria Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! Full-time (40 hrs/week) Day Shift: Monday-Friday, either two shifts-7:00am-3:00pm and two shifts-7:00am-7 ...

$38.60 - $53.08/hr

Overview The Surgical First Assistant serves as first or second assistant on all surgical cases, under the direction of the surgeon to provide technical assistance as required by the type of ...

$38.60 - $53.08/hr

Overview The Surgical First Assistant serves as first or second assistant on all surgical cases, under the direction of the surgeon to provide technical assistance as required by the type of ...

Surgical First Assistant Job Code: SS1701 4 ten hour days 0700-1730 with one call shift per week 1730-0700 and every 4th weekend Friday 1730-Monday 0700. ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of ...

Specialty: Surgical First Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel ...

Specialty: Surgical First Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel ...

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Surgical First Assist information

See Virginia salary details

$16

$37

$75

How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assist in Virginia is $37.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.81 and $41.49 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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Surgical First Assist jobs?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,644 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

Culpeper, VA


UVA Health
Health Care and Social Assistance • 501 - 1,000 employees

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

382nd of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$42.06/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Surgical First Assistant

Job Code: SS1701
Work a minimum of 3 ten hour shifts 0700-1730 per 6 weeks and one call weekend call shift depending on departments needs per 6 weeks.

ABOUT US

We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world-class UVA Health academic health system, we are committed to caring for the whole person by building meaningful connections with our patients in the local setting of UVA Health's community hospitals, outpatient locations, and provider offices. By combining our team's talent and expertise, the breadth of capabilities across the entire UVA Health system, and our dedication to community wellness, we are bringing expert care close to home. As a member of the UVA Community Health team, individuals contribute to patient care decisions, support advanced medical technologies, and experience the satisfaction of making a difference in people's lives every day. 

JOB TYPE

Classification: Non Exempt

Supervises Positions:

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direct and indirect supervision of the attending physician and in a cohesive manner with all surgical staff functions in a surgical assist role, the Surgical Assistant assists the team in providing quality individualized patient care during all phases of the patient' surgical experience. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to the age of the patients served. Assesses data reflective of the patient' status and interpret the information needed to identify each patient' requirements relative to his or her age, specific needs and provides services as described in the department' policies and procedures.

Competencies

  • Communication: Collaborates with the leadership team to identify and resolve unit issues.
    • Keeps co-workers and intra-op staff informed of any updates/issues.
    • Follows written instructions as needed.
  • Quality: Complies with established departmental and organization policies/guidelines.
    • Maintains, operates, and monitors all equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations and department standards.
  • Technical Competency: Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to the age of the patients served.
    • Collects, organizes, and enters information into the patient scheduling application.
    • Assists with various types of surgical operations providing technically skilled duties, serving as surgical first assistant.
    • Demonstrates knowledge of instrumentation and sterile/aseptic technique.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Graduate of a recognized First Assist program with National Certification. O a physician from another country and practicing in the United States as a First Assistant, this is acceptable.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience as surgical first assistant preferred.

Licensure: Certified Surgical First Assistant required (unless a physician from another country). National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants (NCCSA) required.

Licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine as a Surgical First Assistant required.

Refer to the Life Support Training Policy for additional details.

Additional Skills/Requirements Required: Ability to successfully complete generic and department-specific skill validation and competency testing. Demonstrate effective and appropriate customer service skills, verbal and nonverbal communication techniques, interpersonal relationship skills, and time management skills. Surgical tech experience to be able to independently scrub Orthopedics, General, Robotics, Vascular, Gynecological, and Spine cases. Ability to independently cover surgical first assistant call as needed.

Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

 The incumbent may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned.

 PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Demand Code: Medium to Heavy Physical Demand: The job requires constant standing, frequently walking, and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills. Attention to detail and ability to write legibly. Ability to lift/push/pull 100 lbs. For any weight over 35 lbs., use Safe Handling Equipment. This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described. It may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of UVA Community Health.

OTHER

May require the use of safety equipment, such as HEPA mask, for infection prevention: Yes

On call responsibilities as directed: Yes

Ability to travel between campus buildings, remote facilities, and out of town as needed: Yes
The base compensation for this role is $42.06 hourly.  
Please note that the pay rate does not include any applicable incentive compensation programs such as shift differentials, clinical ladders, and other incentives that may be available for those in eligible positions.



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