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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Delta Companies, The

Surgery - General

Kearney, NE

$550K/yr

Growing program needing fourth surgeon * 1st assist APP assigned to you * Physician Led with Exceptional Culture/Collegiality * Just added 8th OR * 300,000 Patient Draw Area and large referral base

Bryan Health

Surgical Technologist

Lincoln, NE · On-site

SUMMARY The Surgical Technologist functions as a member of the multidisciplinary team providing a ... Will not first assist with any procedure; will not do any incision closures. *May apply skin ...

Bryan Health

Surgical Technologist

Lincoln, NE · On-site

SUMMARY The Surgical Technologist functions as a member of the multidisciplinary team providing a ... Will not first assist with any procedure; will not do any incision closures. *May apply skin ...

Bryan Health

Surgical Technologist

Lincoln, NE

SUMMARY The Surgical Technologist functions as a member of the multidisciplinary team providing a ... Will not first assist with any procedure; will not do any incision closures. *May apply skin ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Nebraska salary details

$15

$35

$72

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Nebraska is $35.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.65 and $39.90 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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For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,670 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Surgical First Assistant

Lincoln Surgical Hospital

Lincoln, NE • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Join Our Elite Team: $10,000 Sign-On Bonus Included!
Lincoln Surgical Hospital is a regional leader in innovative, patient-focused healthcare. We are seeking an Extraordinary Surgical First Assistant who thrives in a high-standard, collaborative environment. If you are dedicated to achieving optimal surgical outcomes and providing top-tier patient care, we want to meet you.
The Schedule:
  • Full-Time: 80 hours per pay period (bi-weekly).
  • Hours: Monday - Friday, 6:00 am - 7:00 pm (No weekends/holidays).

Key Responsibilities:
As a vital member of our surgical team, you will:
  • Coordinate & Prep: Partner with circulating nurses to select equipment, pull instrumentation, and ensure the OR is meticulously prepared.
  • Clinical Excellence: Maintain sterile technique while scrubbing, gowning, and gloving; assist surgeons with positioning, hemostasis, and wound dressings.
  • Anticipate Needs: Use physician preference cards to proactively manage instruments, ligatures, and irrigation during procedures.
  • Operational Support: Assist with room turnover, disinfection, and inventory management to keep our facility running at peak efficiency.

  • Education: Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program.
  • Licensure: Current Nebraska Surgical First Assistant license required at hire.
  • Certifications: Current BLS required; must obtain Surgical Technologist Certification within 6 months of hire.

Why Lincoln Surgical Hospital?
Beyond our $10,000 sign-on bonus, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your life and career:
  • Financial Security: 401(k) with company match and Life/Disability insurance.
  • Health & Wellness: Premium Health, Dental, and Vision plans, plus 24/7 access to our onsite Wellness Center.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and uniform reimbursement.
  • Growth: Tuition reimbursement to help you reach your professional goals

Apply