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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Medical-Surgical CNA Job Location: Fairbanks, AK Profession: Certified Nursing Assistant Duration ... From our first conversation to your first day on the job (and beyond!), we're here to help you move ...

Ensure that surgical asepsis is maintained in the handling of instruments, sponges, sutures, drains, needles, and dressings * Assist in the turnover of the O.R. suites between cases, disposing of ...

Ensure that surgical asepsis is maintained in the handling of instruments, sponges, sutures, drains, needles, and dressings * Assist in the turnover of the O.R. suites between cases, disposing of ...

Ensure that surgical asepsis is maintained in the handling of instruments, sponges, sutures, drains, needles, and dressings * Assist in the turnover of the O.R. suites between cases, disposing of ...

Ensure that surgical asepsis is maintained in the handling of instruments, sponges, sutures, drains, needles, and dressings * Assist in the turnover of the O.R. suites between cases, disposing of ...

Ensure that surgical asepsis is maintained in the handling of instruments, sponges, sutures, drains, needles, and dressings * Assist in the turnover of the O.R. suites between cases, disposing of ...

Ensure that surgical asepsis is maintained in the handling of instruments, sponges, sutures, drains, needles, and dressings * Assist in the turnover of the O.R. suites between cases, disposing of ...

Ensure that surgical asepsis is maintained in the handling of instruments, sponges, sutures, drains, needles, and dressings * Assist in the turnover of the O.R. suites between cases, disposing of ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

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Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 hours ago


Job description

**Sign on bonus for qualified candidates**

Do you want to join an organization that invests in you as a Surgical Tech? At Surgery Center of Anchorage, you come first. HCA Healthcare has committed up to $300 million in programs to support our incredible team members over the course of three years.

Job Summary and Qualifications

Under the direction of a Registered Nurse, the Surgical Tech contributes to the company’s mission and vision by assisting with the provision of safe and effective nursing care in accordance with a defined scope of practice within the operating room. This may include: direct patient care and observation, scrubbing and assisting the surgeon at the operative field, surgical room turnover between cases, collection and recording of pertinent clinical data in the medical record and consistent collaboration with the Registered Nurse in clinical decision making.

What you will do in this role:

  • Demonstrate necessary practical, technical, or specialized skills required for the role of the surgical technician in accordance with Association of Surgical Technologists
  • Assist in preparing the operative suite for surgery by checking and gathering supplies, equipment, and instruments
  • Ensure that surgical asepsis is maintained in the handling of instruments, sponges, sutures, drains, needles, and dressings
  • Assist in the turnover of the O.R. suites between cases, disposing of trash and linens, and cleaning of equipment and environmental surfaces
  • Prepare procedure room for use the following day by bringing in equipment, setting up, "pulling cases" accurately, and reporting to supervisor items that are needed and not available

Qualifications you will need:

  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program (preferred)
  • One year experience in an operating room setting (preferably in an ambulatory surgery center)
  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program as required per facility practice and state regulatory requirement; otherwise preferred
  • Valid BCLS Certification upon employment ***Online certification not acceptable
Benefits

Surgery Center of Anchorage, offers a total rewards package that supports the health, life, career and retirement of our colleagues. The available plans and programs include:

  • Comprehensive benefits for medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, behavioral health and telemedicine services
  • Wellbeing support, including free counseling and referral services
  • Time away from work programs for paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence
  • Savings and retirement resources, including a 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service), Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships, retirement readiness tools, rollover support and financial wellbeing counseling
  • Education support through tuition assistance, student loan assistance, certification support, dependent scholarships and a partnership with Galen College of Nursing
  • Additional benefits for fertility and family building, adoption assistance, life insurance, supplemental health protection plans, auto and home insurance, legal counseling, identity theft protection and consumer discounts

Learn more about Employee Benefits

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location.

Surgery Center ofAnchorage has been caring for residents of Alaska since 2010. Our centermaintains the highest performance standards. We have been awarded accreditation by The JointCommission. We perform over 324 procedures a month. Services in ENT, colorectal,gastroenterology, plastics, urology, gynecology and general surgeries are offered. As amember of Surgery Ventures powered by HCA Healthcare we follow our mission. Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.

HCA Healthcare has been named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institutefor over a decade.

HCA Healthcare has been recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by the Ethisphere Institute more than ten times. In recent years, HCA Healthcare spent an estimated $3.7 billion in cost for thedelivery of charitable care, uninsured discounts, and other uncompensated expenses.


"Good people beget good people."- Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr.
HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

We are a family 270,000 dedicated professionals! Our Talent Acquisition team is reviewing applications for our Surgical Tech opening. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. Submit your resume today to join our community of caring!

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.