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Surgical First Assistant Training Program Jobs in Chicago, IL

AdventHealth

Physician Assistant Neurosurgery

Hinsdale, IL · On-site

$118K - $128K/yr

... · Surgical first assist in the operating room for neurosurgery cases · Full Time; 5 days per week plus one weekend per month of Neurosurgery call · Outpatient clinic weekly · Weekend call ...

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Surgical First Assistant Training Program information

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How much do surgical first assistant training program jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant training program in Chicago, IL is $28.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $30.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings:

Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,844 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Surgical Technologist First Assist (SFA), Ambulatory Surgery- Registry, Day

Crown Point, IN • On-site

The University of Chicago Medicine
See more jobs at The University of Chicago Medicineexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

University Of Chicago Medicine rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Join a world-class academic healthcare system at UChicago Medicine Crown Point as a Surgical Technologist First Assist at the Ambulatory Surgery Center. UChicago Medicine is an integrated academic and community health system with multiple primary medical facilities within the surrounding suburbs of Chicago and Northwest Indiana. This position is a 100% onsite opportunity.
The Surgical Technologist First Assist (SFA) will support the continuity for care for perioperative patients. The scope of practice includes intraoperative surgical first assisting. The SFA will provide intraoperative surgical care under the direct supervision of the surgeon for all ages and/or provide direction to the perioperative team where needed. The SFA will also perform other duties as assigned.
Essential Job Functions
  • Assists in performance of procedures for the surgical patient in a manner consistent with established policies and procedures
  • To assist in providing intraoperative care
  • To safely and adequately provide and utilize equipment and supplies based on patient needs
  • Participates in ongoing educational activities
  • Completes assigned goals
  • Independently performs surgical scrub role within the operative field and is able to scrub in all services, adult and pediatric.
  • Demonstrates infection control practices by utilizing proper aseptic technique while dealing with blood/body fluid.
  • In conjunction with Unit leadership, Charge Nurse and Central Sterile Processing, demonstrates organizational skills in case preparation, case cart picking and accurate room set-up for instrument and tray contents in scheduled cases. Sets up instruments, supplies and equipment according to surgeon's preference cards, policies and procedures and standards of care.
  • Correctly uses all sterilizers and high level disinfectors related to surgical procedures; documents appropriately and maintains competencies, as required.
  • Properly handles and cares for instrumentation.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of immediate and long term outcomes of surgical activities including, but not limited to: sponge, needle and instrument count, aseptic technique, proper handling of specimens, proper labeling and handling of medications on sterile field and care of electrosurgical active electrodes and implants.
  • In conjunction with Unit leadership, Charge Nurse and Central Sterile Processing, demonstrates organizational skills in case preparation, case cart picking and accurate room set-up for instrument and tray contents in scheduled cases. Sets up instruments, supplies and equipment according to surgeon's preference cards, policies and procedures and standards of care equipment according to surgeon's preference cards, policies and procedures and standards of care.
  • Correctly uses all sterilizers and high level disinfectors related to surgical procedures; documents appropriately and maintains competencies, as required.
  • Properly handles and cares for instrumentation.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of immediate and long term outcomes of surgical activities including, but not limited to: sponge, needle and instrument count, aseptic technique, proper handling of specimens, proper labeling and handling of medications on sterile field and care of electrosurgical active electrodes and implants.
  • Opens instruments and supplies to sterile field and monitors sterility during patient care
  • Handles specimens
  • Provides cost-effective care by proper use of equipment and instruments. Demonstrates appropriate utilization of supplies based on assessed needs, standard of care and surgeon's preference cards.

Required Qualifications
  • Completion of a Surgical Technician First Assistant Program that includes didactic and supervised clinical practice based on AST/NIFA core curriculum for the surgical technician first assistant.
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • BLS required
  • Must hold valid CSFA licensure

Position Details
  • Job Type/FTE: Registry (0.20)
  • Shift: Days (8-hour shifts)
  • Work Location: Onsite
  • Unit/Department: Ambulatory Surgery
  • CBA Code: Non-Union

About Us
We've been at the forefront of medicine since 1899. We provide superior healthcare with compassion, always mindful that each patient is a person, an individual. To accomplish this, we need employees with passion, talent and commitment... with patients and with each other. We're in this together: working to advance medical innovation, serve the health needs of the community, and move our collective knowledge forward. If you'd like to add enriching human life to your profile, UChicago Medicine is for you. Here at the forefront, we're doing work that really matters. Join us. Bring your passion.
UChicago Medicine is growing; discover how you can be a part of this pursuit of excellence at: UChicago Medicine Career Opportunities
UChicago Medicine is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, civil union status, parental status, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status and other legally protected characteristics.
As a condition of employment, all employees are required to complete a pre-employment physical, background check, drug screening, and comply with the flu vaccination requirements prior to hire. Medical and religious exemptions will be considered for flu vaccination consistent with applicable law.
Compensation & Benefits Overview
UChicago Medicine is committed to transparency in compensation and benefits. The pay range provided reflects the anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position.
The pay range is based on a full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) and is reflective of current market data, reviewed on an annual basis. Compensation offered at the time of hire will vary based on candidate qualifications and experience and organizational considerations, such as internal equity. Pay ranges for employees subject to Collective Bargaining Agreements are negotiated by the medical center and their respective union.
Review the full complement of benefit options for eligible roles at Benefits - UChicago Medicine.

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