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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

CT Assist

Travel Surgical First Assistant

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$2.0K - $3.0K/wk

Surgical First Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel * CVOR CSFA * 3+ years EVH ...

Parkview Health

Certified Surgical First Asst

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$19.07 - $28.61/hr

The scope of responsibility of the Certified Surgical First Assistant includes the ability to anticipate, plan for, and respond to the needs of the patient, surgeon, and other team members. In ...

Baptist Health

Certified Surgical Assist

New Albany, IN · On-site

Working under the direct supervision of the surgeon(s), the Surgical First Assist collaborates closely with the surgical team to provide safe, high-quality, efficient, continuous, and cost-effective ...

Baptist Health

Certified Surgical Assist

New Albany, IN · On-site

Working under the direct supervision of the surgeon(s), the Surgical First Assist collaborates closely with the surgical team to provide safe, high-quality, efficient, continuous, and cost-effective ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Indiana salary details

$15

$35

$72

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Indiana is $35.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $39.81 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 Indiana?

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

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

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

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

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,522 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Travel Surgical First Assistant

First Connect Health

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Contractor

Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

First Connect Health is seeking a travel Surgical First Assistant for a travel job in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Surgical First Assistant
  • Discipline: Allied Health Professional
  • Start Date: 08/24/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 10 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA / CSTFA) – Day Shift

  • Schedule: Day Shift | 4x10-Hour Shifts | 40 Hours Guaranteed Per Week
  • On-Call Protocol: No on-call duties required.
  • Scheduling Notes: Block scheduling is not guaranteed.
  • Assignment Length: 13-Week Contract (Start Date: 08/24/2026)

  • Local Traveler Policy: Candidates with a permanent address within 50 miles of the facility are subject to a 12% reduction.

Submission Hardstops [STRICT & NON-NEGOTIABLE]
  • Experience Baseline [HARDSTOP]: Minimum 2 years of active experience as a CSFA / Surgical Tech First Assist in an acute care hospital setting.
  • Robotic Surgical Competency [CRITICAL HARDSTOP]: Candidates MUST have demonstrated experience and technical proficiency assisting in robotic surgical cases.
  • NBSTSA Mandate [CRITICAL HARDSTOP]: Active CST certification MUST be issued through the NBSTSA (National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting). Other certifying bodies will be rejected.
  • EMR Mandate: Clinical documentation experience in Epic EMR is required.
  • Floating Protocol: Must be willing to float intradepartmentally (e.g., Ortho, Neuro surgical teams) based on operational needs.
  • Licensure & Certifications [IN-HAND AT SUBMISSION]:
    • Active CSFA (NBSTSA) certification.
    • Active CST (NBSTSA) credential.
    • Active AHA BLS (Basic Life Support) certification.
    • All RTO must be explicitly declared at submission.
About First Connect Health

At First Connect Health, we take pride in being a Joint Commission–certified healthcare staffing agency, headquartered in Newark, New Jersey. This prestigious certification is more than just a seal — it's a reflection of our commitment to excellence, safety, and quality in everything we do.

By meeting the rigorous standards set by The Joint Commission, one of the most respected accrediting bodies in healthcare, we've demonstrated that our processes, compliance, and patient care standards are aligned with the highest levels of quality in the industry.

But our dedication goes beyond certifications. Nurses choose First Connect Health because:

  • ✅ Trust and Transparency: We foster honest communication, timely updates, and full transparency throughout your placement journey.
  • ✅ Best Pay & Benefits: We offer industry-leading compensation packages, along with benefits that support your career goals.
  • ✅ Flexibility & Choice: Whether you're seeking short-term assignments, long-term contracts, or local opportunities, we provide the flexibility to suit your preferences.
  • ✅ Personalized Support: Our recruiters take the time to understand your needs, guiding you with care, respect, and responsiveness at every step.

When you work with First Connect Health, you're not just another number — you're a valued professional. Join a team that’s focused on your success, your well-being, and your future in healthcare.

Benefits
  • Sick pay
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Weekly pay
  • Referral bonus

Apply