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Surgical First Assistant Training Program Jobs in California

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Surgical First Assistant Training Program information

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

To thrive in a Surgical First Assistant Training Program, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, surgical procedures, and sterile techniques, often backed by prior healthcare experience or certification as a surgical technologist or nurse. Familiarity with operating room instrumentation, suturing techniques, and patient safety protocols is essential, and many programs require or recommend Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, effective support during surgeries and contribute to optimal patient outcomes in high-stakes clinical environments.

What is a Surgical First Assistant Training Program?

A Surgical First Assistant Training Program is a specialized educational course designed to prepare healthcare professionals to assist surgeons during operations. The training covers advanced surgical techniques, patient care before, during, and after surgery, as well as sterile procedures and instrumentation. Programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience in the operating room. Graduates are equipped to work alongside surgeons, improving patient outcomes and supporting the surgical team. Completion of an accredited program is often required to sit for certification exams and to work as a Surgical First Assistant.

What is the difference between Surgical First Assistant Training Program vs Surgical Technologist Certification?

AspectSurgical First Assistant Training ProgramSurgical Technologist Certification
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training and certification as a Surgical First AssistantRequires certification as a Surgical Technologist (CST) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentAssists surgeons directly during surgeries in hospitals and surgical centersPrepares operating rooms and assists during surgeries, but does not perform direct surgical assistance
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, surgical centers, and clinics needing surgical assistantsHospitals, outpatient surgical facilities, and clinics for surgical support staff

The Surgical First Assistant Training Program prepares individuals to assist surgeons directly during procedures, requiring specialized training and certification. In contrast, Surgical Technologist Certification focuses on preparing support staff who prepare operating rooms and assist indirectly. Both roles are vital in surgical settings but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What are some typical challenges students face during a Surgical First Assistant Training Program, and how can they prepare for them?

Students in a Surgical First Assistant Training Program often encounter challenges such as mastering complex surgical techniques, adapting to the fast-paced operating room environment, and balancing hands-on clinical practice with classroom learning. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong time management skills, actively seek mentorship from experienced surgical staff, and engage in regular study groups to reinforce learning. Embracing a proactive attitude and being open to feedback can also make the transition smoother and enhance overall competency in the role.
What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in California? For Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs? Cities in California with the most Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings:
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Cardiothoracic Surgeon - First Assist

Cardiothoracic Surgeon - First Assist

Saint Vincent Hospital

Modesto, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Saint Vincent Hospital (Massachusetts) rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

842nd of 1,020 rated hospitals


Job description

Why Join Us
Central Valley Doctors Health System Physician Group invites you to join an established and growing cardiothoracic surgery team at Doctors Medical Center - a 465-bed, Joint Commission-accredited regional referral center in the heart of California's Central Valley. You'll work alongside experienced cardiothoracic surgeons in a high-acuity program equipped with cutting-edge technology, including an active TAVR program, ECMO capabilities, and a hybrid OR. This is a collaborative, team-based environment where advanced resources and dedicated support staff allow you to focus on delivering exceptional surgical care.
Position Highlights

  • Full-time, employed position with Central Valley Doctors Health System Physician Group
  • Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assist role supporting open and minimally invasive cases
  • Primarily inpatient-focused with some outpatient follow-up
  • Monday-Friday OR schedule, 7:00 AM-3:30 PM
  • Call participation aligned with the cardiothoracic surgery team
  • Work within a state-of-the-art surgical environment featuring:
    • Hybrid OR and Xi Da Vinci robotic system (3 units on site)
    • Active TAVR program and ECMO capabilities
    • Dedicated cardiothoracic nursing teams, CV PAs, and RNFAs
  • Collaborative team includes cardiothoracic surgeons, anesthesiology, perfusion, nursing, and ICU teams
  • Facility is a certified STEMI Center and Comprehensive Stroke Center with 4 ICUs and 44 critical care beds
What We Offer
  • Compensation ranging from $600,000-$850,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications
  • CME allowance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Malpractice insurance provided
  • Health, dental, and life insurance
  • 401(k) with employer matching
  • Deferred compensation program
  • Relocation assistance
Candidate Requirements
  • MD or DO degree required
  • Completed surgical training with experience functioning as a first assist
  • Prior cardiothoracic surgery experience strongly preferred
  • Board eligible or board certified (or equivalent surgical board eligibility)
  • California licensed or eligible to obtain licensure in California

Why Modesto
Modesto sits at the heart of California's Central Valley, offering a lower cost of living than coastal metros without sacrificing access to world-class destinations - Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, and San Francisco are all within a two-hour drive. The city boasts a warm, family-friendly community with well-regarded schools, a growing arts and dining scene, and a strong agricultural heritage that feeds some of the best farm-to-table cuisine in the state. Affordable housing, shorter commutes, and a tight-knit professional community make Modesto an increasingly attractive choice for physicians seeking balance between career and lifestyle.
Employment practices will not be influenced or affected by an applicant's or employee's race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other legally protected status. Tenet will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship.
#DOX
Contact Information
Contact:
Charles Collier
Phone:
Fax:
E-mail:
Click here to e-mail.
* When making contact with the person who posted this opportunity, please tell them you saw their posting on PracticeMatch.
1113066EL

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