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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

HiredFirst

CT Surgical First Assistant

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$2.2K - $2.4K/wk

CT Surgical First Assistant * Location: Tucson, AZ * Assignment Length: 13 weeks with possible extension * Hours per Week: 40 * Shift Time: 7a-3:30p * Shift Details: nan * Travel Pay Estimate: $2,496 ...

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First Assist/Surgical Tech.

Parker, AZ · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

First Assistant Scrub Tech. / Surgical Tech. Location: Parker, AZ 85344 Pay: $50-$55/hr. Duration: 13-Week Contract with possible extension Schedule: 7 AM to 3 PM | 40 hours weekly | Monday - Friday ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

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$15

$35

$70

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Arizona is $35.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.98 and $38.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for specialized healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas with large hospitals and medical centers. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized surgical fields can also influence earning potential.

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 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 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.

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.

Is a surgical first assistant a good career?

A surgical first assistant is a skilled healthcare professional who supports surgeons during operations, requiring certification and knowledge of surgical procedures. It offers a stable job outlook with opportunities for specialization and advancement, often involving working in hospitals or surgical centers. The role demands strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments.

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.

More about Surgical First Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Arizona? For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:
Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,981 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

Oro Valley Hospital

Oro Valley, AZ

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Description Job Summary
The Surgical Assistant supports the surgical team by preparing the operating room, assisting with patient preparation, and providing technical support during surgical procedures under the supervision of the surgical team. This role performs basic operative assistance such as handling instruments, maintaining sterile technique, positioning patients, and assisting with room turnover. The Surgical Assistant works closely with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesia staff to ensure a safe and efficient surgical environment.
Essential Functions
  • Assists with operating room setup, ensuring surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment are available and sterile prior to procedures.
  • Prepares and positions patients for surgery, assisting with transport, prepping, and draping according to established protocols.
  • Passes instruments and supplies to the surgical team during procedures, maintaining aseptic technique and anticipating surgical needs.
  • Maintains a sterile field and assists with infection prevention practices throughout the surgical procedure.
  • Assists with surgical site cleanup and room turnover between procedures, ensuring readiness for the next case.
  • Supports the care team in monitoring patient safety and comfort during surgical preparation and recovery.
  • Collaborates with team members, responding to direction from the circulating nurse, scrub tech, or surgeon to support workflow.
  • Checks and stocks supplies in the OR or procedure areas, ensuring availability and readiness of surgical materials.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of basic surgical instruments, sterile technique, and surgical safety protocols.
  • Follows hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines, ensuring patient confidentiality and safety.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
Qualifications
  • 0-2 years of experience in a surgical, sterile processing, or patient care support role required
  • 1-2 years of experience supporting perioperative services or working in a surgical setting preferred
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Basic understanding of surgical procedures and aseptic technique.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions in a fast-paced clinical environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well within a collaborative surgical team.
  • Reliable, detail-oriented, and able to maintain focus during routine and complex procedures.
  • Knowledge of surgical instrumentation and OR safety protocols is preferred.
Licenses and Certifications
  • CPR - Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation required
  • BCLS - Basic Life Support required
  • CST - Certified Surgical Technologist preferred

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