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Surgical First Assistant

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$2.1K/wk

Surgical First Assistant Location: Glendale, AZ Specialty: Surgical First Assistant Assignment Length: 13 weeks with possible extension Hours per Week: 36 Schedule: Days Shift Time: 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM ...

UVA Health

Surgical First Assistant

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$42.06/hr

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 ...

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How much do surgical first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assist in the United States is $37.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $41.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surgical First Assist, and why are they important?

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 Surgical First Assists?

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.

Is surgical first assistant a good career?

A surgical first assistant is a trained healthcare professional who supports surgeons during procedures, requiring certification and strong knowledge of surgical techniques. The role offers steady employment, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization, making it a viable and rewarding career in healthcare. Job prospects are generally good due to ongoing demand for surgical support staff in hospitals and surgical centers.

How much does a surgical 1st assistant make?

Surgical first assistants typically earn between $50,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Certified surgical assistants with specialized skills and certifications tend to earn higher salaries, especially in urban hospitals or specialized surgical centers.

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 does a first assistant do in surgery?

A surgical first assistant supports the surgeon during procedures by providing exposure, holding retractors, suctioning, and assisting with suturing and tissue handling. They must have knowledge of surgical techniques, sterile procedures, and often hold certifications such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA).

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 specialized healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas and states with large healthcare facilities. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in hospitals or surgical centers also influence earning potential.
What cities are hiring for Surgical First Assist jobs? Cities with the most Surgical First Assist job openings:
What states have the most Surgical First Assist jobs? States with the most job openings for Surgical First Assist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assist jobs? For Surgical First Assist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Surgical First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,315 per year, or $37.7 per hour.
Surgical First Assistant

Surgical First Assistant

Inova Health System

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Inova Fairfax Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! This position will be full time, days and shifts will vary based on case load. We offer great pay based on experience, sign-on bonus and relocation assistance, if eligible! Plus, don't forget about our other amazing benefits and perks!

Inova is consistently ranked as a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Inova Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, flexible work schedules, and remote and hybrid career opportunities

Surgical First Assistant Job Responsibilities:

  • The Surgical First Assistant ensures improvements in practice settings by assuming responsibility for self-development in life-long learning.
  • Provides direction and guidance to others regarding practice, serves as a resource preceptor, and mentor.
  • Provides safe therapeutic care by collaboration with surgeons and health care team in performing a safe operation with optimal outcomes for the patient.
  • Utilizes standards, guidelines and pathways for care delivery.
  • Incorporates data and information to continuously improve care and practice to enhance outcomes.
  • Teamwork-communicates effectively and works cooperatively with others and has respect for and understanding other clinical disciplines.
  • Serves as a resource in at least 2 specialty areas/procedures.
  • May perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: Completion of Surgical First Assistant program through an accredited organization; or Medical school graduate with surgical training; or completion of a surgical assistant training program during military service in the United States.
  • Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience as a Surgical First Assistant; or 2 years of Surgical Technologist experience
  • Certification: Basic Life Support from American Heart Association required upon start.
  • License: Licensed as Surgical Assistant in the Commonwealth of Virginia required upon start

Preferred experience:

  • AAS in Surgical Assisting or Surgical Technologist
  • Experience in the areas of Robotics, GYN and OB preferred.

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