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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

ScionHealth

Surgical First Assist

Columbus, GA · On-site

The Surgical Technologist - First Assist functions as an integral member of the surgical team, providing advanced intraoperative assistance to the surgeon during operative procedures. In addition to ...

LanceSoft

Travel Surgical First Assistant

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Specialty: Surgical First Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel The ...

LeaderStat

Travel CVOR Surgical First Assistant

Atlanta, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

CVOR Certified Surgical First Assistant Surgical Services in Atlanta, GA LeaderStat is currently seeking a CVOR Certified Surgical First Assistant Surgical Services for a(n) 15 week contract in GA.

AdventHealth

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Rome, GA · On-site

$27.41 - $50.99/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) [Required] OR • Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) [Required] OR • ABSA Surgical Assistant (SA) [Required] • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) [Preferred ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Georgia salary details

$14

$31

$64

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Georgia is $31.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.38 and $35.34 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.
More about Surgical First Assistant jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 36% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,128 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Surgical First Assist

ScionHealth

Columbus, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

ScionHealth rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

800th of 888 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Join St. Francis-Emory Healthcare, a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St. Francis also delivers advanced heart, orthopedic, and women's care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.
Job Summary
  • The Surgical Technologist - First Assist functions as an integral member of the surgical team, providing advanced intraoperative assistance to the surgeon during operative procedures. In addition to performing core surgical technologist duties, this role directly assists with exposure, hemostasis, suturing, and other technical functions under the direction and supervision of the surgeon. The First Assist helps ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care throughout the perioperative process.

Essential Functions
  • Prepares and maintains the sterile field, instruments, and supplies required for surgical procedures.
  • Functions as a first assistant to the surgeon by providing direct intraoperative support, including:
  • Assisting with tissue retraction, exposure, and visualization
  • Controlling bleeding through clamping, cauterization, or other techniques
  • Suturing, stapling, and closing surgical wounds as directed
  • Handling and positioning tissues and organs during procedures
  • Anticipates surgeon needs and ensures instruments and supplies are readily available.
  • Assists with patient positioning, draping, and preparation in accordance with surgical and safety standards.
  • Maintains strict adherence to sterile technique and infection prevention protocols.
  • Participates in surgical counts to ensure accuracy of instruments, sponges, and sharps.
  • Assists in the preparation, handling, and use of surgical equipment and technology.
  • Collaborates with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and nursing staff to support optimal patient outcomes.
  • Responds appropriately to intraoperative complications and emergencies.
  • Ensures proper specimen handling and documentation.
  • Participates in turnover and preparation of the operating room between cases.
  • Maintains knowledge of surgical procedures, techniques, and equipment advancements.
  • Adheres to all regulatory, accreditation, and organizational standards, including patient safety and HIPAA requirements.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations
  • Advanced knowledge of surgical anatomy, procedures, and instrumentation.
  • Proficiency in aseptic technique and sterile field maintenance.
  • Strong technical skills in suturing, tissue handling, and surgical assisting techniques.
  • Ability to anticipate surgical team needs and respond quickly in a dynamic environment.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
  • Knowledge of patient safety standards and infection control practices.

Qualifications
Education
  • Postsecondary (Cert/Diploma/Program Grad) Graduate of an accredited surgical technology program (Required) And
  • Postsecondary (Cert/Diploma/Program Grad) Completion of an accredited Surgical First Assist program based on state regulations (May be Required-Facility Specific)

Licenses/Certifications
  • CST - Certified Surgical Technologist Upon Hire (Required)
  • Other: Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified First Assistant (CFA) based on facility or state requirements (May be Required-Facility Specific)
  • BCLS - Basic Life Support Upon Hire or within facility-specified time frame (Required)

Experience
  • 2+ years operating room experience as a surgical technologist (Required) And
  • Prior Experience performing first assist duties in surgical procedures (Preferred)

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