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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Winona Health

Certified Surgical Assistant

Winona, MN · On-site

The Surgical Assistant is credentialed and provides First Assistant duties under the direction of a physician. These duties may include but are not limited to: suture and staple removal, cast ...

Winona Health

Certified Surgical Assistant

Winona, MN · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

The Surgical Assistant is credentialed and provides First Assistant duties under the direction of a physician. These duties may include but are not limited to: suture and staple removal, cast ...

Winona Health

Certified Surgical Assistant

Winona, MN · On-site

The Surgical Assistant is credentialed and provides First Assistant duties under the direction of a physician. These duties may include but are not limited to: suture and staple removal, cast ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$16

$36

$74

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Minnesota is $36.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.42 and $40.96 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

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

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,703 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

Surgical First Assist - General, GYN, Orthopedics (Laparoscopic and Robotic) - CSA/CFSA/LSA - Win...

MPOWERHealth

Winona, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Overview

MPOWERHealth is looking for a highly skilled Surgical First Assist to join our growing team in Winona, MN. If you're a dedicated OR professional who thrives in a fast-paced surgical environment, we want to hear from you!

In this dynamic role, you'll play a vital part in delivering excellent patient care and supporting successful surgical outcomes. 

What We're Looking For:
  • Strong operating room experience
  • One of the following credentials: CSFA, CSA, LSA, RFNA, or Surgical PA.
  • A team-oriented mindset and commitment to clinical excellence

.

Benefits:

  • Multiple medical plan options
  • Health Savings Account with company contributions
  • Dental and vision coverage for you and your dependents
  • 401k with company match
  • Paid time off (PTO) including vacation, sick time, and holidays
  • Company wellness program with health insurance incentives
ResponsibilitiesWhat You'll Do:

Be the Surgeon's Right HandStep into a critical role as the Surgical First Assist, providing expert support throughout procedures and ensuring everything runs seamlessly in the OR.

Own the Pre-Op ExperienceSet the stage for success by confirming cases, connecting with patients, explaining procedures, and coordinating details with the surgical team.

Deliver Excellence in the ORFrom patient positioning to maintaining a sterile field, you'll anticipate the surgeon's needs and collaborate closely with the OR team to ensure optimal outcomes.

Support Recovery & Continuity of CareAssist with safe patient transfer, deliver detailed PACU handoffs, and ensure accurate, timely documentation after every procedure.

Drive Improvement & InnovationGet involved beyond the OR-contribute to training, education, and process improvement initiatives that elevate clinical and operational performance.

Grow Your Skills & ExpertiseExpand your capabilities by learning new surgical specialties and continuously advancing your skill set.

Qualifications

Requirements:

  • Must have at least 2 years of surgical assisting experience.
  • Must have experience assisting in General, GYN, and Orthopedics(laproscopic and robotics).
  • Spine experience is a plus.

Education/Training:

  • Must have excellent computer skills, specifically MS Office, and EMR.
  • Must be a graduate of an Accredited Surgical Assist program.
  • Must possess current state license where practicing.

Physical Requirements:

Able to perform all essential duties with or without accommodations, including but not limited to:

  • Ability to lift, sit, stand, or squat
  • Constantly seeing, hearing, and speaking
  • Frequent lifting to 20+ lbs. in addition to bending, reaching, standing, walking, and kneeling.

Preferred Skills:

  • Strong interpersonal skills with ability to adapt to different personalities and needs.
  • Customer service-oriented mindset.
  • Able to function independently, autonomously, and confidently.

It is the policy of MPOWERHealth not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status.

#IND456

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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