ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsSurgical First Assist JobsSurgical First Assist Jobs in Rochester, MN

Surgical First Assist information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$16

$38

$77

How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 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 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:

Surgical First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,607 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Certified Surgical Technologist- Birth Center

Olmsted Medical

Rochester, MN • On-site

$31.11 - $46.67/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

0.6 FTE - 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.

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 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.

Apply