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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Physician Assistant

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$102K - $138K/yr

First assist in assigned provider's surgery cases. Participate in occasional patient rounding. Serve appointed rounds in Walk in clinic. Knowledge and skill requirements Understand role of physicians ...

Physician Assistant

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$102K - $138K/yr

First assist in assigned provider's surgery cases. Participate in occasional patient rounding. Serve appointed rounds in Walk in clinic. Knowledge and skill requirements Understand role of physicians ...

Physician Assistant

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

... First assist in assigned provider's surgery cases. • Participate in occasional patient rounding. • Serve appointed rounds in Walk in clinic. Knowledge and skill requirements • Understand role ...

Physician Assistant

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

... First assist in assigned provider's surgery cases. • Participate in occasional patient rounding. • Serve appointed rounds in Walk in clinic. Knowledge and skill requirements • Understand role ...

Physician Assistant

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

First assist in assigned provider's surgery cases. * Participate in occasional patient rounding. * Serve appointed rounds in Walk in clinic. Knowledge and skill requirements * Understand role of ...

Physician Assistant

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

First assist in assigned provider's surgery cases. * Participate in occasional patient rounding. * Serve appointed rounds in Walk in clinic. Knowledge and skill requirements * Understand role of ...

Showing results 21-40

Surgical First Assistant information

See Alaska salary details

$17

$40

$81

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Alaska is $40.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.36 and $45.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical first assistant?

A Surgical First Assistant is a trained healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgical procedures. Their responsibilities include providing exposure, controlling bleeding, suturing incisions, and ensuring the surgical field is maintained. They work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other operating room staff to help ensure surgeries are conducted safely and efficiently. Surgical First Assistants may be registered nurses, physician assistants, or other certified professionals who have completed additional specialized training.

How do you become a surgical first assistant?

You can become a Surgical First Assistant by first getting certified as a Surgical Technologist. You can then pursue the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) credential to enhance your learning process as well as your professional profile. The minimum education requirement for this job is an associate degree, but some employers will prefer a bachelor’s degree prior to your certification. At your earliest opportunity, you should begin working in a medical environment, such as a hospital or clinic.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical first assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical First Assistant, you need in-depth knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, sterile techniques, and typically a certification such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent. Familiarity with surgical instruments, advanced suturing techniques, and operating room technology is essential. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to anticipate surgeons’ needs are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and optimal support for surgeons during procedures.

How does a surgical first assistant typically collaborate with surgeons and other members of the surgical team during procedures?

A Surgical First Assistant works closely with the lead surgeon and the entire operating room team to ensure procedures run smoothly and safely. Their responsibilities include anticipating the surgeon’s needs, providing technical support such as tissue retraction, suction, and suturing, and maintaining clear communication throughout the surgery. Collaboration requires adaptability, quick decision-making, and a thorough understanding of surgical protocols. Effective teamwork is vital, as the assistant helps maintain sterile fields, manages instruments, and supports patient safety at every stage of the operation.

What is the difference between Surgical First Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgical First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), surgical assisting certificationsCertified Surgical Technologist (CST), surgical tech certifications
Work EnvironmentAssist surgeons during procedures, work closely in the operating roomPrepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, assist in setup
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient facilities
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

The Surgical First Assistant and Surgical Technologist roles both operate in the operating room environment but differ significantly. Surgical First Assistants actively assist surgeons during procedures, requiring advanced certifications like CSFA. Surgical Technologists prepare the OR and support the surgical team but do not directly assist during surgery. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Is a surgical first assistant a good career?

A surgical first assistant is a skilled healthcare professional who supports surgeons during procedures, requiring certification and knowledge of surgical techniques. It offers a stable job outlook with opportunities for specialization and advancement, often involving working in operating rooms with a team. The role provides meaningful work in patient care and typically involves a demanding schedule with high responsibility.

What qualifications do you need to be a surgical first assistant?

To become a surgical first assistant, candidates typically need to have a healthcare background such as a registered nurse, surgical technologist, or physician assistant, along with specialized training in surgical assisting. Certification through organizations like the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) or the American Association of Surgical Assistants (AASA) is often required or preferred. Additionally, strong knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques is essential.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for specialized healthcare services. Typically, urban areas and regions with large hospitals or medical centers offer the highest compensation, especially for those with advanced certifications and experience. Salary can also vary based on the healthcare facility and geographic demand for surgical services.

What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Alaska?

For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,341 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Allied / Tech - Surgical Tech

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital

Ketchikan, AK • On-site

$2.2K/wk

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Carilion Clinic rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 214 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

456th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Details
Client Name
PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center
Job Type
Travel
Offering
Allied
Profession
Allied / Tech
Specialty
Surgical Tech
Job ID
37589600
Job Title
Allied / Tech - Surgical Tech
Weekly Pay
$2269.0
Shift Details
Shift
8a-4p
Scheduled Hours
40
Job Order Details
Start Date
09/14/2026
End Date
12/14/2026
Duration
13 Week(s)
Job Description
ID: 64154816 Shift: Day 5x8-Hour (07:00 - 15:00) Description: Certified First Assistant OR or Certified Surgical TechStart Date: ASAP (4 weeks from offer for compliance requirements). Shift: 0700-1530 but total 36 hours per week. Our schedule tends to fluctuate and not every day is a full 8 hours and sometimes goes over. We schedule the staff to the surgery volume, we need someone flexible. Number of Beds: 5Years of Experience REQ: 2 years of experience required. Travel experience is preferred. Epic REQ? 1 year of experience preferred.First-Timers Accepted: YesWeekend REQ: yes every third nightCerts REQ: CST or NCCT, BLS.Will clinician float within scope to meet facility needs? No.Open to accommodating block schedule? TBD Locals Accepted: NoRTO Restrictions: NoOn Call Required?: Yes, every 2nd-3rdnight, every 2nd-3rd weekend. Guaranteed Hours: 36 GWWTop 10 Diagnosis/Procedures: Ortho-total joints, arthroscopies. General-cholecystectomies, hernias, appendectomies, bowel resections. Urology-Cystoscopies. ENT- Tonsillectomies, myringotomies. OB/GYN- C-sections, tubals, hysterectomies. GI-EGDs, colonoscopies. FACILITY INFORMATIONType of Facility: Critical AccessMagnet / Teaching / Level Trauma (if applicable): Nonprofit, Level IV Trauma CenterTotal Staffed Beds: 54Scrub Color: All Any Color; Provided in ORCharting: Epic Parking Cost: Free Modified Time:8/24/2026 7:00:00 AM Account Manager: Adam Raize Account Manager Email: Adam.Raize@lotusone.com COVID-19 Vaccine: Required - No Exemptions Flu Vaccine: Required - No Exemptions Submittals:High Job Requirements & Qualifications Previous Charge Experience : - Years of Experience : 2 Patient Ratio Experience : Charting System Experience : - Charting System Name : Community Hospital Experience : - LTAC Experience : - Trauma Level I Experience : - Trauma Level II Experience : - Travel Experience Required : - Certifications : BLS, CSTSkills : Abdominal hysterectomy, Appendectomy, Arthroscopy, Bilateral tubal ligation, Bronchoscopy, C-sections, Cholecystectomy, Closed/Open reduction of fractures, Colon resection - Open/LAP, Colonoscopy, Cystoscopy, Dilation & Curettage, EGD, Endoscopic sinus procedures, General OR, Hernia repair inguinal/umbilical, Laminectomy/discectomy, Laparoscopic assisted cases, Laparoscopic assisted cases, Laparoscopic assisted cases, Laparoscopic assisted gynecological procedures, Laparoscopic assisted procedures, Nephrectomy, Peg tube placement/exchange, Prostatectomy, Radical neck dissection, Spinal Fusion, Thyroidectomy partial/total, Tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy, Total hip replacement, Total knee replacement, Tracheostomy, Transurethral resection of the prostate, Vaginal Hysterectomy, please send to PM/CM when needs are posted, SCREEN candidates if missing any required skills. Unit Details Staffing & Scheduling Scheduling Type : - Patient Ratios Days : - Patient Ratios Nights : - Patient Ratios Weekends : - Float Required : - Call Required : yes every third or fourth night Weekend Coverage : - Number of Weekend Shifts Per Contract : - Pre-Approved Time Off : - Orientation Hours : - Facility & Patient Care Details Patient Age Groups : Adolescents, Infants, Adults, Geriatrics Daily Census : - Number of Visits Per Day : - Number of Rooms : 5 Number of Beds : - Additional Unit Information Interdisciplinary Support : - Patient Diagnoses : Top 10 Diagnosis/Procedures: Ortho-total joints, arthroscopies. General-cholecystectomies, hernias, appendectomies, bowel resections. Urology-Cystoscopies. ENT- Tonsillectomies, myringotomies. OB/GYN- C-sections, tubals, hysterectomies. GI-EGDs, colonoscopies. Special Procedures/Unit Details : - Special Equipment : transcribed from Legacy profile into new MSP UD. Please verify skills with UM when needs are posted. 12/2/24 JM #Tier4 Travel Compliance Required for Submission : SSN and DOB required at time of submission. RTO must be disclosed at submission and approved before contract signing. Auto-offer positions: Up to 3 RTO days. Regular offers: Up to 7 RTO days. Some holiday RTO may be approved depending on the unit. No additional RTO will be approved after the contract is signed. Proof of Washington state license application is required at submission. Active Washington license is not required at submission. Two references from the past 2 years are required with submission. At least one reference must be from a supervisor (Charge Nurse accepted). Attach all required certifications based on the Unit Description (UD), Unit Attributes (UA), and job description. Submission Questions (Required) : Please include the following with every submission: Fully vaccinated: Yes/No Epic experience: Yes/No Epic experience within the last year: Yes/No Previous PeaceHealth employee (travel or permanent): Yes/No If yes, include facility and dates of employment. Washington temporary/permanent license in hand: Yes/No If no license is in hand: Washington license application submitted: Yes/No Attach proof of application. Acknowledge that the start date may be delayed up to 8 weeks while licensure is processed. Submission Rules : Local candidates are not accepted. Local radius is within 60 miles of the facility. Required experience varies by specialty; refer to the UD, UA, and job description. Epic experience requirements are unit-specific; refer to the job description. If not specifically required, Epic experience is not mandatory but must still be reported. Candidates must be willing to float as needed within the health system. Refer to the UD/UA for unit-specific floating expectations. RiverBend travelers may occasionally float to University District when operationally necessary. For any background or license findings, include a traveler statement with the submission. Candidates with more than one DUI are not eligible for consideration. Previous PeaceHealth employees must be separated from the health system for at least 1 year before returning as a traveler. Start / Facility Instructions : Licensing: Candidates who submit with proof of Washington license application should anticipate that the start date may be delayed by up to 8 weeks while licensure is processed. Modules: No facility modules are required. Submittal Details: #Tier4 Travel ComplianceRequired for Submission:SSN and DOB required at time of submission.RTO must be disclosed at submission and approved before contract signing.Auto-offer positions: Up to 3 RTO days.Regular offers: Up to 7 RTO days.Some holiday RTO may be approved depending on the unit.No additional RTO will be approved after the contract is signed.Proof of Washington state license application is required at submission.Active Washington license is not required at submission.Two references from the past 2 years are required with submission.At least one reference must be from a supervisor (Charge Nurse accepted).Attach all required certifications based on the Unit Description (UD), Unit Attributes (UA), and job description.Submission Questions (Required):Please include the following with every submission:Fully vaccinated: Yes/NoEpic experience: Yes/NoEpic experience within the last year: Yes/NoPrevious PeaceHealth employee (travel or permanent): Yes/NoIf yes, include facility and dates of employment.Washington temporary/permanent license in hand: Yes/NoIf no license is in hand:Washington license application submitted: Yes/NoAttach proof of application.Acknowledge that the start date may be delayed up to 8 weeks while licensure is processed.Submission Rules:Local candidates are not accepted.Local radius is within 60 miles of the facility.Required experience varies by specialty; refer to the UD, UA, and job description.Epic experience requirements are unit-specific; refer to the job description.If not specifically required, Epic experience is not mandatory but must still be reported.Candidates must be willing to float as needed within the health system.Refer to the UD/UA for unit-specific floating expectations.RiverBend travelers may occasionally float to University District when operationally necessary.For any background or license findings, include a traveler statement with the submission.Candidates with more than one DUI are not eligible for consideration.Previous PeaceHealth employees must be separated from the health system for at least 1 year before returning as a traveler.Start / Facility Instructions:Licensing:Candidates who submit with proof of Washington license application should anticipate that the start date may be delayed by up to 8 weeks while licensure is processed.Modules:No facility modules are required. Guaranteed Hours: Contract Weeks:91
Client Details
Address
3100 Tongass Ave
City
Ketchikan
State
AK
Zip Code
99901

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About Carilion Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

This is Carilion Clinic ... An organization where innovation happens, collaboration is expected and ideas are valued. A not-for-profit, mission-driven health system built on progress and partnerships. A courageous team that is always learning, never discouraged and forever curious. Headquartered in Roanoke, Va., you will find a robust system of award winning hospitals, Level 1 and 3 trauma centers, Level 3 NICU, Institute of Orthopedics and Neurosciences, multi-specialty physician practices, and The Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Research Institute. Carilion is where you can make your own path, make new discoveries and, most importantly, make a difference. Here, in a place where the air is clean, people are kind and life is good. Make your tomorrow with us.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Roanoke, VA, US

Year founded

1899