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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Trice Healthcare

RN / Registered Nurse

Midland, MI · On-site

The Sr. First Assistant RN uses their clinical judgment and skills acquired through RN licensure and specialized First Assistant training to provide safe competent surgical first assisting skills to ...

MyMichigan Health

First Assist Surg Tech I

Saginaw, MI · On-site

FA I= • A surgical technologist who was on the job trained as a surgical technologist and who is on the job trained as a First Assistant, no formal training (grandfathered in their role) FAII = A ...

ILLUUM COSMETIC SURGERY

OR FIRST ASSIST

Novi, MI

  • PTO

New plastic surgery practice open in Novi, MICompetitive compensation and benefitsAn opportunity to ... EducationCurrent Michigan RN license, BSN preferredRegistered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) and/or ...

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All JobsSurgical First JobsSurgical First Assistant JobsSurgical First Assistant Jobs in Michigan

Surgical First Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$14

$32

$66

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Michigan is $32.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $36.44 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

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

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,259 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

General Surgery Physician Assistant - St. Lawrence Region

Rochester Regional Health

Cheboygan, MI • On-site

$155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

Rochester Regional Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 218 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

307th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

General Surgery Physician Assistant Opportunity

Join Rochester Regional Health - St. Lawrence Region

Precision. Partnership. Purpose. Join the Surgical Team That Makes an Impact.

At Rochester Regional Health, we believe exceptional care starts with exceptional people. Our providers are empowered to build meaningful patient relationships, collaborate with supportive colleagues, and thrive both professionally and personally in one of the most scenic and welcoming regions of New York State.

The St. Lawrence Region offers the perfect balance of purpose-driven medicine and quality of life - where you can make a lasting impact in a close-knit community while enjoying the natural beauty, affordability, and lifestyle flexibility that are increasingly hard to find elsewhere.

Why Join Rochester Regional Health - St. Lawrence Region?

Practice With Purpose

  • Serve a diverse patient population with strong community ties
  • Enjoy a collaborative environment with experienced clinical teams
  • Opportunity for autonomy while remaining connected to a large, integrated health system
  • Access to advanced technology, specialty support, and system-wide resources

Exceptional Quality of Life

Located in Northern New York along the St. Lawrence River, our communities offer:

  • Easy access to the Adirondack Mountains
  • Proximity to Canada, including quick trips to Ottawa and Montreal
  • Four-season outdoor recreation including boating, hiking, skiing, fishing, and camping
  • Affordable housing and short commute times
  • Family-friendly communities with excellent schools and welcoming neighborhoods
  • A slower pace of life without sacrificing access to modern amenities

Position Highlights

  • Specialty: Outpatient General Surgery / Surgical First Assist
    • Preference for experienced Surgical First Assist Physician Assistant's but open to training new graduates
  • Position Location: Canton-Potsdam Hospital and General Surgery Practice (Potsdam, NY)
  • Schedule: Flexibility in schedule to meet a 40-hour work week
    • 2 Clinical days per week in Hospital's General Surgery Practice, and 2 clinical days per week at the Hospital's Operating Room.
  • Call Coverage Requirements: Provider will cover approximately 47 calls per year
    • Call hours are from 5p through 7a
  • EMR: Epic
  • Team Structure: Collaboration with St. Lawrence Region Physicians and providers well as other Physicians and providers within the RRH system

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a highly competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support your career and well-being:

  • Competitive Salary
    • Base Salary: $155,000 + Productivity Incentive
    • Additional Pay of $250.00 per night for call above and beyond contracted calls with an hourly rate of $75.00 per hour for any callback hours worked (including contracted call)
  • Sign-on bonus and relocation assistance
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan with employer contribution
  • Malpractice insurance with tail coverage
  • Visa sponsorship opportunities available

* Pay Summary
The listed base pay range is a good faith representation of current potential base pay for a successful full-time applicant. It may be modified in the future and may be eligible for additional pay components. Pay is determined by factors including experience, relevant qualifications, specialty, internal equity, location, and contracts. In addition to the base pay range, certain provider positions may be eligible for variable compensation in accordance with health system pay practices. This may include productivity and/or value-based clinical incentives, bonus compensation, or other forms of variable pay.

About Rochester Regional Health

Rochester Regional Health is an integrated health services organization serving communities across Western and Northern New York. With a commitment to compassionate care, clinical excellence, and innovation, we are dedicated to uplifting humanity through the care of our patients and one another.

The St. Lawrence Region includes:

  • Canton-Potsdam Hospital
  • Massena Hospital
  • Gouverneur Hospital
  • Multiple outpatient practices and specialty services throughout the region

Discover a Career - and a Lifestyle - You'll Love

If you are seeking a rewarding opportunity where your expertise is valued, your voice matters, and your life outside of work is just as important as your life inside it, we invite you to explore a future with Rochester Regional Health - St. Lawrence Region.

Apply Today

Rochester Regional Health Careers

EDUCATION:

BS: Physician Assistant (Required)

LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS:

PA-C - Certified Physician Assistant - National Committee on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), RPA - Registered Physician Assistant - New York State Education Department (NYSED)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

M - Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; Requires frequent walking, standing or squatting.

For disease specific care programs refer to the program specific requirements of the department for further specifications on experience and educational expectations, including continuing education requirements.

Any physical requirements reported by a prospective employee and/or employee's physician or delegate will be considered for accommodations.

PAY RANGE:

$100,000.00 - $150,000.00

CITY:

Potsdam

POSTAL CODE:

13676

The listed base pay range is a good faith representation of current potential base pay for a successful full time applicant. It may be modified in the future and eligible for additional pay components. Pay is determined by factors including experience, relevant qualifications, specialty, internal equity, location, and contracts.

Rochester Regional Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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