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Surgical First Assistant Training Program Jobs in Washington, DC

Graduate of a recognized first assist program with National Certification or RN required. Or, if a ... Refer to the Life Support Training Policy for additional details. Licensure: Certified Surgical ...

Surgical Assistant

Clinton, MD · On-site

$35.68 - $64.71/hr

The Surgical Assistant may take a scrub rolewhen not needed as a first assistant. SCOPE OF PRACTICE: The Surgical Assistant may: Handle tissue. Provide exposure. Use instruments. Suture. Provide ...

Surgical Assistant

Clinton, MD · On-site

$35.68 - $64.71/hr

The Surgical Assistant may take a scrub rolewhen not needed as a first assistant. SCOPE OF PRACTICE: The Surgical Assistant may: Handle tissue. Provide exposure. Use instruments. Suture. Provide ...

Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred. Experience: Three years of ... These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and ...

Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred. Experience: Three years of ... These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and ...

Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred. Experience: Three years of ... These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and ...

These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and ... Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred. Experience: Three years of ...

These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and ... Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred. Experience: Three years of ...

These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and ... Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is preferred. Experience: Three years of ...

OB/GYN Hospitalist

Reston, VA · On-site

$130 - $171.75/hr

Job Title Program Details 24 Hour Shifts Provide GYN Coverage Required to Perform Circumcisions Surgical First Assist Available Backup Midwives Backup Available (OB/GYN ED Call) Hospital Details NICU ...

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Surgical First Assistant Training Program information

See Washington, DC salary details

$15

$31

$71

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant training program in Washington, DC is $31.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $34.04 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 Washington, DC?

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

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

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

Surgical Assistant, Senior

UVA Health

Manassas, VA

$41.54 - $67.46/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


UVA Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

346th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Surgical Assistant, Senior

Sign-On Bonus Available!!

4x10-hour shifts Shifts with call rotation on weekends and holidays. 

 Job Code: SS1482ABOUT US

We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world-class UVA Health academic health system, we are committed to caring for the whole person by building meaningful connections with our patients in the local setting of UVA Health's community hospitals, outpatient locations, and provider offices. By combining our team's talent and expertise, the breadth of capabilities across the entire UVA Health system, and our dedication to community wellness, we are bringing expert care close to home. As a member of the UVA Community Health team, individuals contribute to patient care decisions, support advanced medical technologies, and experience the satisfaction of making a difference in people's lives every day.

JOB TYPE

Classification: Non Exempt

Supervises Positions:

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direct and indirect supervision of the attending physician and in a cohesive manner with all surgical staff functions in a surgical assist role, the Surgical Assistant Senior assists the team in providing quality individualized patient care during all phases of the patient' surgical experience. The staff member will be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to the age of the patients served. The employee will be able to assess data reflective of the patient' status and interpret the information needed to identify each patient' requirements relative to his or her age, specific needs and to provides services as described in the department' policies and procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Graduate of a recognized first assist program with National Certification or RN required. Or, if a physician from another country and practicing in the United States as a First Assistant, this is acceptable.

Experience: Minimum of 4 years of experience assisting preferred. Refer to the Life Support Training Policy for additional details.

Licensure: Certified Surgical First Assist or Registered Nurse First Assist required.

Additional Skills/Requirements Required: Ability to successfully complete generic and department-specific skill validation and competency testing. Demonstrate effective and appropriate customer service skills, verbal and nonverbal communication techniques, interpersonal relationship skills, and time management skills. Scrub tech experience to be able to independently scrub Orthopedics, General, Vascular, Gynecological cases. Ability to independently cover scrub call as needed.

Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

Competencies

  • Communication: Collaborates with the leadership team and UCIC to identify and resolve unit issues.
    • Keeps co-workers and intra-op staff informed of any updates/issues.
    • Follows written instructions as needed.
  • Technical Competency: : Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to the age of the patients served.
    • Collects, organizes, and enters information into the patient scheduling application.
    • Assists with various types of surgical operations providing technically skilled duties, serving as first assist.
    • Demonstrates knowledge of instrumentation and sterile/aseptic technique.

The incumbent may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Demand Code: Medium to Heavy Physical Demand: The job requires constant standing, frequently walking, and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills. Attention to detail and ability to write legibly. Ability to lift/push/pull 100 lbs. For any weight over 35 lbs., use Safe Handling Equipment. This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described. It may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of UVA Community Health.

OTHER
  • May require the use of safety equipment, such as HEPA mask, for infection prevention: Yes

  • On call responsibilities as directed: Yes

  • Ability to travel between campus buildings, remote facilities, and out of town as needed: Yes

    The base compensation range for this role is  $41.54  - $67.46 hourly.

    Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.  Please note that the pay range does not include any applicable incentive compensation programs such as shift differentials, clinical ladders, and other incentives that may be available for those in eligible positions.


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