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Surgical First Assist Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

WI ยท On-site

$91 - $149/hr

Surgical first assist, including sharp dissection * Vascular dissection for cannulation of kidneys placed on perfusion devices * Renal Pulsatile perfusion * How to independently recover research ...

New

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) obtained prior to hire date or job transfer date. * Surgical Assistant credentialed from ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) obtained prior to hire date or job transfer date. * Surgical Assistant credentialed from ...

Surgical First Assistant

Franklin, WI ยท On-site

$33.06/hr

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical First Assistant

Racine, WI ยท On-site

$33.06/hr

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

Surgical Assistant credentialed from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative ...

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Surgical First Assist information

See Wisconsin salary details

$16

$38

$76

How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assist in Wisconsin is $38.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.34 and $42.21 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,048 per year, or $38 per hour.

$91 - $149/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Act as Surgical First Assist to the Surgical Organ Recovery Specialist or visiting surgeon during organ recovery procedures.

  • Perform preservation, packaging, and documentation of organs to ensure optimal transplantation outcomes.

  • Provide rapid on-site response, assist with organ recovery, and collaborate with hospital personnel, physicians, and donation agencies.


Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Hospitals in Alaska, Montana, Northern Idaho, & Washington - Bellevue, WA 98006

Position Type: Full Time

Salary Range: $91,429.00 - $148,800.00 Salary

The Surgical First Assist (SFA) is accountable for all activities related to the surgical recovery and safe preservation of organs from donors. SFA's wear many different 'Scrub-Hats' in the delicate process necessary to make the gift of life through organ donation happen. The SFA brings essential equipment for surgery, and scrubs into surgery directly assisting our remarkable Surgical Organ Recovery Specialists. After surgery, the SFA helps deliver organs such as the kidney, liver, pancreas, heart, lungs, and bowel in a chain of handoffs to the transplant recipient.

  • Comprehensive anatomy training
  • Surgical first assist, including sharp dissection
  • Vascular dissection for cannulation of kidneys placed on perfusion devices
  • Renal Pulsatile perfusion
  • How to independently recover research thoracic and abdominal organs
  • Independent recovery of heart for valve tissue processing
  • Logistics around organ recovery and transplantation

This position has 3 career levels, with increased knowledge required at each level. We hire at all levels commiserate with relevant experience. Those with more experience can advance the levels faster while meeting the goals of each level. Applicants with all levels of experience are encouraged to apply.

What you will do:
  • Work a 24-hour on-call schedule
  • Travel by personal automobile, commercial and chartered aircraft throughout LifeCenterโ€™s donation service area which includes Alaska, Montana, Northern Idaho, and Washington
  • Provide rapid on-site response
  • Acts as Surgical First Assist to the Surgical Organ Recovery Specialist, or visiting surgeon
  • Responsible for renal pulsatile perfusion of suitable kidneys for optimal transplantation outcomes.
  • Trained to independently recover organs for research and heart for valve processing
  • Preservation and packaging of organs for optimal transplantation outcomes
  • Document case data and complete recovery documentation within assigned timeframe.
  • Ensures effective communication and strong collaboration with hospital personnel, physicians, related donation agencies, transplant centers, and other LifeCenter staff.
  • Assist thoracic recovery teams with recovery perfusion and packaging
What you need:
  • Previous Operating Room (O.R.) experience
  • Certification or relevant surgical training
  • Hands on experience with tissue manipulation, sharp and blunt dissection skills, tying and suturing skills
  • The ability to meet schedule and travel requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 75pounds with or without assistance
  • Knowledge of anatomy and aseptic technique
  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination, or applicable medical or religious exemption will be required as a condition of employment upon offer. For those that need to complete the vaccination series, start dates will be adjusted.
Who we want:
  • Someone who shares our values:Integrity, Collaboration, Service, and Courage
  • Surgical First Assist experience
Experience that translates well into this role:
  • First Assist, OR RN, Surgical Physician Assistant (PA), Surgical Research experience, or experience working in travel assignments as a CST.
Benefits and Compensation

LifeCenter Northwest offers medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment insurance, long-term disability insurance, and travel accident insurance. Employees have the option of enrolling in the following supplemental or voluntary plans: life insurance, short-term disability, accident insurance, hospital indemnity, critical illness coverage and pet insurance. Employees enrolled in our 403(b) program will receive an employer match of up to 7% after one year, employees are auto enrolled at 3% and may change their enrollment at any time. LifeCenter encourages all employees to find balance and well-being and provides all employees access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and provides a quarterly Wellness Reimbursement. Employees enjoy paid holidays throughout the calendar year and earn 119 hours of PTO annually (to start) as well as Health Time Off hours that is earned 1 hour per 30 worked, paid living donor leave, two weeks paid jury duty leave after 6 months of service, and three weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service is complete. A comprehensive review of benefits can be foundathttps://lcnw.org/about/employment-opportunities/.

PAY RANGE
  • SFA I: $91,429 - $132,608 Salary
  • SFA II: $94,560 - $141,840 Salary
  • SFA III: $99,200 - $148,800 Salary

The pay range for this role is provided above. Where a candidateโ€™s compensation falls within this range is based on several bona fide factors such as experience, tenure, and other specialized knowledge. LifeCenter Northwest is committed to providing its employees equitable and competitive compensation.

This position is eligible for additional compensation to the base pay rate, in the form of Extra Call Pay, Extra Call Worked, Overnight Differential and Holiday Stipend Pay.

LifeCenter Northwest is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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