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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

UnityPoint Health

Nurse Practitioner - Surgery

Waterloo, IA

$107K - $139K/yr

OR surgical first assist, inpatient rounding, post-operative management, and discharge planning * Conduct independent assessments and manage pre-/post-operative care * Inpatient census 8-15 patients

UnityPoint Health

Midwife - Waterloo

Waterloo, IA

$91K - $114K/yr

Perform vaginal births, laceration repairs, and serve as first surgical assist for cesarean sections and gynecologic surgeries. * Triage, assess, and manage emergent obstetric patients in ...

UnityPoint Health

Midwife - Waterloo

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$91K - $114K/yr

Perform vaginal births, laceration repairs, and serve as first surgical assist for cesarean sections and gynecologic surgeries. * Triage, assess, and manage emergent obstetric patients in ...

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All JobsSurgical First JobsSurgical First Assistant JobsSurgical First Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Surgical First Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$35

$71

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Iowa is $35.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.22 and $39.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 Iowa? For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:
Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Orthopedics Physician Assistant

Orthopedics Physician Assistant

The Medicus Firm

Webster City, IA • On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description


ORTHOPEDIC PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

North Central Iowa


Position Highlights :

  • Work-Life Balance: Four-Day Schedule
  • Favorable Call Schedule: NO Call
  • Desirable Practice Setting/Ideal Work Environment: Collaborate closely with the orthopedic surgeon, providing surgical 1st assist support and help build and grow a new practice
  • Ideal Work Environment: Be a valued partner of the orthopedic practice, making a significant impact on patient care
  • Culture & Support, Support & Networking: Ortho Surgeon willing to train in any areas needed. Participate in networking and outreach in the community as needed/desired.

Compensation & Benefits :

  • Competitive Salary, Up to $140,000 a year
  • Additional Bonus Incentives Available
  • Sign-On Bonus Offered
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Student Loan Repayment Assistance is Negotiable
  • Professional Development and Growth Opportunity
  • Additional Perks including 31 Days of Paid Time Off per year, Unmatched Iowa IPERS Pension Retirement

Qualifications :

  • Degree: Graduate of accredited PA program by the ARC-PA or predecessor/accredited body
  • Certifications: NCCPA
  • Licensure: Hold or obtain license from Iowa Board of Physician Assistants
  • Experience: Four or more years of experience preferred, Ortho Surgeon willing to train

About the Community

  • Top Ranked Location: Lowest Cost of Living in Iowa, One of the Best Places to Buy a House in Iowa
  • Rural Community: A welcoming, close-knit town where neighbors know one another and local events, festivals, and youth activities bring residents together year-round in this vibrant community.
  • Lifestyle & Affordability: Vibrant Community, abundant recreational activities, High-quality lifestyle with excellent cost of living. 60.6% less expensive to live in this city with a total cost of living score 25.1% lower than the national average.
  • Prime Location: Small-town living with easy access to larger metro areas for shopping, dining, big city entertainment, and travel via international airport
  • Education: Home to respected public schools and the historic library, along with local arts, music, and community programming.


Job Reference #: OPA 26252

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