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Surgical First Assist Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees ... Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ...

Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ... Paid Time Off (PTO) - Up to 23 days of PTO within your first year of employment - 28 days after 1 ...

Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ... Paid Time Off (PTO) - Up to 23 days of PTO within your first year of employment - 28 days after 1 ...

Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ... Paid Time Off (PTO) - Up to 23 days of PTO within your first year of employment - 28 days after 1 ...

Surgical Technologist

Rochester, MN · On-site

$32.53 - $46.78/hr

As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees ... Vision Care - The Vision Care Plan is administered by Avesis and can assist with the costs of eye ...

... Surgical Tech Job ID 37683392 Job Title Allied / Tech - Surgical Tech Weekly Pay $1373.68 Shift ... assist with sterilization tracking and processes. -Responsible to operate and troubleshoot power ...

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Surgical First Assist information

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$77

How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assist in Rochester, MN is $38.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.53 and $42.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can surgical first assistants do?

Surgical first assistants support surgeons during procedures by providing exposure, hemostasis, and tissue handling. They may also help with patient positioning, instrument management, and maintaining a sterile environment, often requiring certification and knowledge of surgical techniques.

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 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 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.

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.

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 healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas with large hospitals and specialized surgical centers. States or cities with a higher volume of complex surgeries and advanced medical facilities often offer increased compensation for this role.

How to become a surgical first assistant?

To become a surgical first assistant, individuals typically need to complete a relevant healthcare program such as a surgical technology or physician assistant program, obtain certification like the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), and gain clinical experience in surgical settings. Licensing requirements vary by state and facility, and strong knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques is essential.
What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assist jobs in Rochester, MN? For Surgical First Assist jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assist jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assist jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Surgical First Assist jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Surgical First Assist job openings:
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,607 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Certified Surgical Technologist

Olmsted Medical

Rochester, MN • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description

0.7 FTE - Variable Shifts - On Call Shifts $5,000.00 Sign on Bonus with work commitment

Starting Pay - $31.11 - $46.67 (Based on Experience)

Offers for external candidates are generally made between the minimum and midpoint of the range, based on experience.

At Olmsted Medical Center, we value our employees and are committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. To keep up with the evolving trends, Olmsted Medical Center offers the following for employees who are employed at a 0.5 FTE or higher.

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employer Paid Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability
  • Adoption Assistance Plan

Qualifications:

  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technologist program
  • Surgical technologist certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
  • BLS certified

Job Responsibilities:

  • Sets up sterile back table and Mayo stand with instruments, supplies, equipment, and medications/solutions needed for the surgical procedure.
  • Performs initial counts procedure with the RN circulator.
  • Assists team members with gowning and gloving.
  • Assists with draping and establishing of sterile field.
  • Actively participates in surgical timeout.
  • Anticipates the needs of the surgeon.
  • Measures and passes medications, hemostatic agents, and irrigation solutions on the sterile field.
  • Holds retractors as directed by the surgeon.
  • Applies suction and sponges to the operative site as needed.
  • Cuts suture material as directed by the surgeon.
  • May apply electrocautery to forceps and clamps on bleeders.
  • Prepares sterile dressings.
  • Prepares and passes off specimens.
  • Cleans and prepares instruments for sterilization.
  • Assists other members of the team with room turnover.
  • Performs work duties in a dependable manner.
  • Demonstrates open communication; team oriented.
  • Maintains confidentiality.
  • Maintains ongoing self-development.
  • Acts in a professional manner.
  • Lifting, pushing, and pulling instruments and pans throughout the sterilization process.
  • Performs repetitive motions throughout shift.
  • May function in the role of surgical first assistant with additional education and training.
  • May assist RN circulator (e.g. obtaining additional instruments, supplies, and equipment) if necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.