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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Baptist Health

Surg First Assist (RN) PRN

Paducah, KY · On-site

Summary PRN The SURG FIRST ASSIST (RN) is responsible for providing nursing care for patient populations in the operating rooms (OR) and for perioperative care in the transition from preoperative ...

Baptist Health

Surg First Assist (RN) PRN

Paducah, KY · On-site

Summary PRN The SURG FIRST ASSIST (RN) is responsible for providing nursing care for patient populations in the operating rooms (OR) and for perioperative care in the transition from preoperative ...

Baptist Health

Surg First Assist (RN) PRN

Paducah, KY · On-site

$7.25/hr

The SURG FIRST ASSIST (RN) must possess the skills necessary to assist the physician in a variety of surgical procedures, must minimize turnaround times between procedures, and follow established ...

Baptist Health

Certified Surgical Assist

Louisville, KY · On-site

Matthews area Full Time | First Shift The Certified Surgical Assistant provides direct support to the supervising surgeon(s) in the management and care of surgical patients. Working under the direct ...

Baptist Health

Certified Surgical Assist

Louisville, KY · On-site

Matthews area Full Time | First Shift The Certified Surgical Assistant provides direct support to the supervising surgeon(s) in the management and care of surgical patients. Working under the direct ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Kentucky salary details

$14

$32

$65

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Kentucky is $32.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.11 and $36.35 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.
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The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Kentucky are:

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

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,019 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

SURGICAL FIRST ASSIST

Pikeville, KY • On-site

Pikeville Medical Center
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

472nd of 1,064 rated hospitals

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Pikeville Medical Centerexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Surgical First Assist. Certification required. Varied shifts will call required depending on shift.

What Pikeville Medical Center employees say

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