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

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Surgical First Assist information

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$16

$38

$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.
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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- Birth Center

Olmsted Medical Center

Rochester, MN โ€ข On-site

$31.11 - $46.67/hr

Other

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

PRN - Rotating Shifts/Weekends

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.

Qualifications:

  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technologist program required
  • Surgical technologist certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
  • BLS certified within 90 days of hire
  • Completion of nursing assistant program or previous experience with direct patient care preferred
  • Flexibility with rapidly changing work environments

Job Responsibilities:

  • Sterile set up of the back table and Mayo stand with instruments, supplies, equipment, and medications/solutions needed for the cesarean procedure.
  • Performs initial counts procedure with the RN circulator role / and in delivery room space.
  • Assists team members with gowning and gloving.
  • Assists with draping and establishing sterile fields.
  • 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.
  • Conducts room turnover or assists with room turnover.
  • Demonstrates open communication, team oriented.
  • Maintains confidentiality.
  • Maintains ongoing self-development.
  • Lifting, pushing, and pulling instruments and pans throughout the sterilization process.
  • Performs repetitive motions throughout shift.
  • May support obstetrician as directed during STAT cesarean section (but not completing surgical assist duties e.g. cutting or suturing)
  • May assist RN circulator role (e.g. obtaining additional instruments, supplies, and ) if necessary.
  • Works under the direct supervision and instruction of the RN to provide direct patient care activities.
  • Provides direct patient care for patients of all ages (including newborns) that includes, but not limited to, personal care and hygiene, vital signs, and ambulation.
  • Documents patient care appropriate to role in the patient chart.
  • Assists in set up, take down, and cleaning of delivery and other Birth Center equipment.
  • Maintains unit care areas, stockroom, supply area and patient rooms in order and keeps rooms organized, adequately stocked and equipment calibrated.
  • Assists with the transport of patients as needed. Manages information in accordance with state and federal requirement.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.