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Surgical First Assistant Training Program Jobs in Kentucky

Travel CVOR First Assist

Paducah, KY ยท On-site

$1.9K - $2.6K/wk

Travel Genie Healthcare is looking for a Surgical Services to work in Certified Surgical First Assist for a 13 weeks travel assignment located in Paducah, KY for the Shift (5x8 Days - Please verify ...

Certified Surgical First Assistant SkyBridge Healthcare is currently seeking a Certified Surgical First Assistant with Operating Room experience for a 13-week contract in KY. SkyBridge Healthcare is ...

Showing results 41-60

Surgical First Assistant Training Program information

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Kentucky?

For Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant

Dignity Physician Careers

Lexington, KY โ€ข On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Opportunity Criteria
Specialty:
Surgery
Loan Repayment:
Negotiable
Salary Range:
$120,000.00 to $170,000.00 / Year
Employment Type:
Not Specified
Bonus Offered:
Negotiable
Job Description
Job Summary and Responsibilities
As our Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA), you will help 3 Cardiac Surgeons provide inpatient care and offer comprehensive cardiothoracic surgical services to patients at Saint Joseph Hospital in Lexington, KY.
Every day you will perform surgical/first assist duties in the Operating Room, including harvesting veins for CABG procedures, placing arterial lines, and placing chest tubes. You will be expected to participate in an inpatient-only practice, respond to call for surgeries, and round on patients on weekends in a call rotation
In your practice, you will also have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of procedures including but not limited to: Adult Cardiac Surgery, Aortic Aneurysm Surgery, Aortic Valve Surgery, Coronary Bypass Surgery, Minimally invasive Heart Surgery, Mitral Valve Repair and Replacement surgery, Open heart surgery, Valve repair and replacement surgery, Major aortic surgery, Beating heart cardiac operations, Arrhythmia surgery (the MAZE operation), Cardiac assist devices, and Ventricular restorative procedures.
In this role, you will work Monday - Friday, with one weekend of rounding per month. You will also take call on a 1:4 rotation, with a post-call day if called in for surgery. Weekend call is paid in addition to base pay (session pay).
To be successful in this role, you must have physician assistant training and be willing to learn, as we are open to new graduates. Previous surgical experience is a plus.
Compensation and Benefits for this role include: Competitive Salary, Additional pay for weekend call, Yearly bonus opportunities, Sign-On Bonus/Relocation Assistance, 401K Contribution Match, Competitive Time Off Policy, and Designated CME days and CME Stipend each year
Highlights of our program include:
  • Inpatient-only position
  • Surgical/First Assist on OR cases
  • Harvesting veins for CABG procedures
  • Placing arterial lines
  • Placing chest tubes
Schedule:
  • Monday - Friday, with one weekend of rounding per month
    • On the weekends, you can expect to just round on patients
    • Weekend call is paid in addition to base pay (session pay)
  • Call required for this position (1:4)
    • Expectation of call is for surgeries only, with a post-call day if called in for surgery
Job Requirements
Required:
  • Active or eligible Advanced Practice Registern Nurse or Physician Assistant license in the state of Kentucky
Where You'll Work
Lexington, The Horse Capital of the World is a picturesque city surrounded by horse farms known for our bourbon, street art, nightlife, food, shopping, architecture, history, craft beer, schools, music and the friendly people. Located conveniently on the interstate 75 and interstate 64 corridor, Cincinnati, OH and Louisville, KY are only a short hour away for a more Urban atmosphere. Lexington has been ranked #15 in the US News and World Report's Best Places to Live.
CHI Saint Joseph Medical Group now part of CommonSpirit Health formed between Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) and Dignity Health includes 275 providers delivering quality care to patients across 88 locations in central and eastern Kentucky. Our full service network delivers a variety of Primary Care Services including Family Internal Geriatric and Pediatric Medicine in addition to several specialties to deliver custom care based on the unique needs of our patients.
Saint Joseph Hospital, a cornerstone of healthcare in Lexington, Kentucky, boasts a rich history spanning over a century. Its journey reflects the evolution of medicine, the changing needs of the community, and the enduring spirit of service. SJH became a pioneer in the region, introducing new technologies and treatments, including the first open-heart surgery in Kentucky in 1963. Today, Saint Joseph Hospital remains a leading healthcare provider in Lexington, offering a wide range of services, including advanced surgical procedures, cancer care, and heart and vascular care
Catholic Health Initiatives is a part of CommonSpirit ยฎ , one of the nation's largest health systems dedicated to advancing health for all people.
#HEC
Pay Range
$120,000 - $170,000 /year
Contact Information
Contact:
Zachary Robertson
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.
2026-481337