1

Surgical First Assistant Training Program Jobs in Tucson, AZ

First Assist - OR

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$2.0K/wk

License Verification - Not Required for First Assist We are seeking an experienced Travel OR First Assist to join our surgical team for a 13-week assignment. The ideal candidate will have a proven ...

First Assist - OR

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$2.0K/wk

License Verification - Not Required for First Assist We are seeking an experienced Travel OR First Assist to join our surgical team for a 13-week assignment. The ideal candidate will have a proven ...

RN First Assist

Oro Valley, AZ · On-site

$2.0K - $2.3K/wk

... surgery. Operating room assistants usually complete accredited training through a certificate ... diploma or associate's degree program and obtain voluntary certification in order to gain ...

Medical Assistant

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Completion of a Medical Assistant training program or equivalent work experience. * Current First Aid/ CPR certification from recognized program (American Red Cross, etc.) required or completed ...

Showing results 21-40

Surgical First Assistant Training Program information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$12

$25

$59

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant training program in Tucson, AZ is $25.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $28.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Tucson, AZ?

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

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings in Tucson, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,008 per year, or $26 per hour.

Surgical First Assist Cardiothoracic

Banner Health

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Banner Health rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 769 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

235th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Primary City/State:
Tucson, Arizona
Department Name:
Surgery-Cardio/Thoracic-Clinic
Work Shift:
Day
Job Category:
Clinical Care
At Banner University Medical Center, there will be exciting opportunities to be a part of the health care transformation. We are known nationally as an innovative leader in new health care models and are on the cutting edge of medical advances. You will work alongside a group of dedicated physicians and staff that perform some of the most state-of-the-art procedures that exist anywhere in the country.
Banner Health is seeking a Cardiac Surgical First Assist to join our elite cardiothoracic surgical team, where you will play a critical role in life-saving procedures including CABG, valve replacements, and heart and lung transplantations. In this dynamic position, you will demonstrate your expertise through endoscopic vein and radial artery harvesting, multi-level surgical site closures, and the establishment of bypass pump lines - all while working alongside some of the most talented surgeons in the field. You will be empowered to anticipate surgical needs, maintain hemostasis, and apply advanced techniques that directly contribute to exceptional patient outcomes. Beyond the operating room, you will extend your impact through meaningful preoperative and postoperative patient care, ensuring a seamless and safe surgical experience from start to finish. If you are passionate about precision, thrive in high-stakes environments, and are committed to delivering timely, effective, and equitable care, this is the opportunity you have been waiting for. Join Banner Health and be part of a team that is redefining the future of cardiothoracic surgery - where your skills truly save lives every single day.
Location
1625 N Campbell Ave
Tucson, AZ
Schedule
Monday - Friday 7a to 5p, with some nights and weekends
Banner University Medical Group is our nonprofit faculty practice plan associated with the University of Arizona Colleges of Medicine in Phoenix and Tucson. Our 1,100-plus clinicians provide primary and specialty care to patients at highly ranked Banner - University Medical Centers and dozens of clinics while providing mentorship to more than 1,200 residents and fellows. Our practice values and encourages the three-part mission of academic medicine: research, education and excellent patient care.
POSITION SUMMARY
At the direction of a surgeon, this position assists in performing cardiothoracic surgical procedures. This position is responsible for endoscopic vein and radial artery harvesting, closure of multilevel surgical site, including bone, and performing interoperative technical functions. In addition, this position provides first assist functions for heart and lung transplantation. This position also performs preoperative and postoperative duties to facilitate patient care.
CORE FUNCTIONS
1. Provides surgical assistance to surgeon for perioperative patient cases. Prepares for surgical procedures. Pulls appropriate instruments and supplies and ensures good working order of instruments. Reviews case carts for correct instruments and supplies. Troubleshoots malfunctioning equipment and makes minor adjustments or calls biomedical equipment staff. Checks schedule and plans ahead for upcoming surgical case needs.
2. Anticipates the surgeon's needs. Assists in maintaining hemostasis, passes instruments, retracts tissue, use and application of appropriate surgical instruments, placement of ties and suture ligatures, or any other measures as directed by surgeon. Contributes to excellent patient outcomes through timely, effective, efficient, equitable, and safe care.
3. Demonstrates the principles of aseptic technique and universal precautions throughout the procedure. Disposes of sharps and trash and places used supplies into case cart for processing. Participates in counting sharps, instruments and sponges. Prepares instruments for cleaning following each case
4. Assists with the plan of care under the direction of a physician. Provides care based on physician orders in compliance with policies and procedures, standards of care, and regulatory agency requirements.
5. Supports all aspects of Cardiothoracic surgery including but not limited to CABG, minimally invasive valve replacement/repair, open valve replacement/repair, heart and lung transplant and artificial heart devices.
6. Assists with the establishment of by-pass pump lines in the surgical field, place femoral artery and vein catheters during a surgical emergency, endoscopic vein and radial artery harvesting and close a multi-level surgical site, including bone.
7. Serves as a First Assistant to a Surgeon in the operating room. This position follows safety procedures in regard to medication labeling, appropriate handling of specimens, appropriate handling of sharps, time-out procedure, radiation and laser safety, infection control, assembling and disassembling instruments. Internal customers are patients, surgeons, and nursing staff. External customers may include practicing physicians, patient families and vendors or sales reps.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
High school diploma/GED or equivalent working knowledge.
Current certification as a surgical technologist/first assist and current basic life support certification is required. Where applicable must be registered with State Regulatory Agency.
This position requires skills and abilities typically attained with three or more years of Cardiothoracic operating room experience and six or more years of CT surgery specific experience.
The position requires manual dexterity and the ability to maintain professional decorum in highly stressful emergent situations.
The position requires the ability to be conscientious, organized, and orderly and the ability to respond quickly to the needs of the surgeon and patient within the scope of practice.
Must stay abreast of new developments in the field.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Additional related education and/or experience preferred.
EEO Statement:
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Our organization supports a drug-free work environment.
Privacy Policy:
Privacy Policy

What Banner Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom