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Surgical First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Methodist Hospital

Surgical First Assist

Schertz, TX

The Surgical First Assistant works as a member of the perioperative team under the direction of the surgeon. He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical First ...

Methodist Hospital

Surgical First Assist

Cibolo, TX

The Surgical First Assistant works as a member of the perioperative team under the direction of the surgeon. He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical First ...

HiredFirst

Surgical First Assistant

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$2K/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 ...

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How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant 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.

How does a Surgical First Assistant typically collaborate with surgeons and other members of the surgical team during procedures?

A Surgical First Assistant works closely with the lead surgeon and the entire operating room team to ensure procedures run smoothly and safely. Their responsibilities include anticipating the surgeon’s needs, providing technical support such as tissue retraction, suction, and suturing, and maintaining clear communication throughout the surgery. Collaboration requires adaptability, quick decision-making, and a thorough understanding of surgical protocols. Effective teamwork is vital, as the assistant helps maintain sterile fields, manages instruments, and supports patient safety at every stage of the operation.

What is a Surgical First Assistant?

A Surgical First Assistant is a trained healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgical procedures. Their responsibilities include providing exposure, controlling bleeding, suturing incisions, and ensuring the surgical field is maintained. They work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other operating room staff to help ensure surgeries are conducted safely and efficiently. Surgical First Assistants may be registered nurses, physician assistants, or other certified professionals who have completed additional specialized training.

How Do You Become a Surgical First Assistant?

You can become a Surgical First Assistant by first getting certified as a Surgical Technologist. You can then pursue the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) credential to enhance your learning process as well as your professional profile. The minimum education requirement for this job is an associate degree, but some employers will prefer a bachelor’s degree prior to your certification. At your earliest opportunity, you should begin working in a medical environment, such as a hospital or clinic.

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

To thrive as a Surgical First Assistant, you need in-depth knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, sterile techniques, and typically a certification such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent. Familiarity with surgical instruments, advanced suturing techniques, and operating room technology is essential. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to anticipate surgeons’ needs are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and optimal support for surgeons during procedures.

How do you become a surgical first assistant?

To become a surgical first assistant, individuals typically need to complete a relevant healthcare education program such as a surgical technology or nursing degree, gain clinical experience, and obtain certification through organizations like the National Surgical Assistant Association or the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting. Licensing or certification requirements vary by state or employer, and strong knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques are essential.

What is the difference between Surgical First Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgical First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), surgical assisting certificationsCertified Surgical Technologist (CST), surgical tech certifications
Work EnvironmentAssist surgeons during procedures, work closely in the operating roomPrepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, assist in setup
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient facilities
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

The Surgical First Assistant and Surgical Technologist roles both operate in the operating room environment but differ significantly. Surgical First Assistants actively assist surgeons during procedures, requiring advanced certifications like CSFA. Surgical Technologists prepare the OR and support the surgical team but do not directly assist during surgery. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Surgical First Assistant jobs
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What states have the most Surgical First Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Surgical First Assistant jobs include:
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Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 32% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,315 per year, or $37.7 per hour.
SURGICAL FIRST ASSIST

SURGICAL FIRST ASSIST

Ephraim McDowell Health

Danville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
As a member of the perioperative healthcare team, the surgical first assistant maintains a working relationship with all members of the peri-operative healthcare team. The surgical first assistant provides assistance to the surgeons in the surgical arena. The surgical first assistant supports the surgeon during the surgical procedure by assisting in patient positioning and providing visualization/retraction during surgical procedures. The surgical first assistant also assists with hemostasis and closure of the operative site. The surgical first assistant effectively interacts with other disciplines to coordinate the patient's care while in the surgical environment. The surgical first assistant demonstrates the ability to implement a plan for specific surgical cases and is responsible with the RN for accurate and complete patient records to ensure expeditious retrieval of information. The surgical first assistant is responsible with the RN for creating/maintaining sterile fields as appropriate. The surgical first assistant must demonstrate self-direction and professionalism by identifying areas of needed skill development and participating in educational activities; using the expertise of the unit nursing staff and the supervisory staff in dealing with patient problems; participating in unit meetings; being reliable and accountable on scheduled work days. The surgical first assistant will be accountable for promoting the corporate philosophy of F.I.R.S.T. values by effectively relating with patients, their families, visitors, nursing staff members and members of other disciplines and departments. The surgical first assistant demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his/her assigned unit.The surgical first assistant demonstrates the knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the lifespan and in collaboration with the RN display the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's needs relative to his/her age-specific needs. Exhibits the F.I.R.S.T. values (Friendliness, Innovation, Respect, Service, and Trust).
Working Conditions, Hazards and Physical Effort:
Works in a well-lighted, ventilated and air conditioned area. Often exposed to unpleasant odors, sights and sounds. Long periods in a stationary position and moving around the unit are required. May experience exposure to disease, infection, blood and body fluids, physical strain and/or hazardous materials. Must be able to move or position 50 lbs. independently. Will work dayshift during the weekdays with call every five to six (5-6) weeks.
Contacts with Others:
Patients, family members and significant others, physicians and Associates, other healthcare providers, administrative staff and hospital support services.
EQUIPMENT USED/SPECIAL SKILLS REQUIRED:
(See competency check list.)
Demonstrated competence in the clinical setting. Three (3) years scrub tech experience required.

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