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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

CVOR Assistant

Las Vegas, NV

$44.43 - $66.61/hr

The Certified Surgical Technologist - Surgical First Assistant (CSTFA) - CVOR provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions, including saphenous vein harvesting, that will help ...

Physician Assistant's Needed

Reno, NV · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

Bay Area, California An established surgical practice is seeking Physician Assistants for both clinic-based and surgical first-assist opportunities. Depending on experience and interest, candidates ...

Surgical Technician

Reno, NV · On-site

$29.71 - $41.60/hr

Surgical First Assistant: Surgical Technologist may perform in the capacity of a first assist if he or she is a graduate of a surgical assistant first assistant program that included didactic and ...

Surgical First Assistant: Surgical Technologist may perform in the capacity of a first assist if he or she is a graduate of a surgical assistant first assistant program that included didactic and ...

Surgical First Assistant: Surgical Technologist may perform in the capacity of a first assist if he or she is a graduate of a surgical assistant first assistant program that included didactic and ...

Surgical First Assistant: Surgical Technologist may perform in the capacity of a first assist if he or she is a graduate of a surgical assistant first assistant program that included didactic and ...

Surgical Technologist-Specialty Rep

Reno, NV · On-site

$32.76 - $45.87/hr

Surgical Technologist may perform in the capacity of a first assist if he or she is a graduate of an surgical assistant first assistant program that included didactic and supervised clinical practice ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Nevada salary details

$16

$38

$77

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Nevada is $38.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.58 and $42.60 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.

What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Nevada? For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Nevada, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Nevada are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs? Cities in Nevada with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Nevada as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,749 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


United Surgical Partners International rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Durango Outpatient Surgery Center is seeking a Full Time Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)/ CST to join the team!

                                            $5,000 Sign-On Bonus!   

Durango Outpatient Surgery Center is a fast-paced Ambulatory Surgery Center committed to producing the highest quality work and experience for patients and their families.  Our mission is to provide first-class surgical services to the local community in a safe, comfortable, welcoming environment, one in which we would be happy to treat our own families. We have 5 operating rooms offering a full range of surgical procedures including: Bariatrics, Colorectal, General Surgery/Robotics, GI, OB/Gynecology, Sports Medicine, Orthopedic, Pain Management, Podiatry, and Spine.

What You Will Do   (Job Summary):

The CSFA/CST is a vital member of the surgical team, responsible for providing advanced assistance during operative procedures and supporting all aspects of perioperative care in an outpatient surgery center. This dual-role position requires expertise in both first assisting and surgical technology, ensuring safe, efficient, and high‑quality patient care.      Will work in CST role on cases where CSFA is not required.    

 First Assist Duties (CSFA)

  • Provide direct surgical first assistance under the direction of the surgeon, including:
    • Tissue handling, exposure, and retraction
    • Hemostasis techniques (clamping, ligating, cauterizing)
    • Suturing, stapling, and wound closure
    • Application of dressings and splints
  • Anticipate surgeon needs and maintain a proactive approach during procedures
  • Assist with patient positioning, prepping, and draping
  • Ensure proper use of instruments, equipment, and surgical technologies
  • Maintain strict adherence to sterile technique and safety protocols

Surgical Technologist Duties (CST)

  • Prepare operating rooms with appropriate instruments, supplies, and equipment
  • Perform surgical scrub duties for a variety of outpatient procedures
  • Maintain accurate counts of instruments, sponges, and sharps
  • Assist with turnover and room readiness between cases
  • Collaborate with RNs, anesthesia providers, and surgeons to ensure smooth workflow
  • Participate in equipment troubleshooting and basic maintenance
  • Support inventory management, including restocking and supply rotation
  • Monday to Friday work schedule!
  • NO weekend and holiday work!
  • NO call required!

What We Offer                                       

USPI offers the following benefits, subject to employment status:       

  • Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
  • Paid time off (vacation & sick leave) - Starting PTO accrual is 15 days per year. 
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Paid holidays
  • Health savings accounts, healthcare & dependent flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance program, Employee discount program
  • Voluntary benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance, long term care, elder & childcare, AD&D, auto & home insurance.

#LI-AB3


Required Skills

Requirements:

  • High School diploma or GED   
  • Graduate of a Surgical Technologist program.   Certification required.  
  • Graduate of a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) program.   CSFA certification required
  • BLS, and Advanced Life Support (ACLS) certification accredited by AHA required. 
  • 1+ year surgical experience with multiple procedures, including orthopedic and general procedures 
  • Demonstrates clinical competency, leadership, and teaching capabilities.
  • Physically and emotionally capable of performing responsibilities of position. 

Who We Are

We are part of a much larger team with United Surgical Partners International (USPI).  At USPI, we create relationships that create better care. We partner with physicians and healthcare systems to provide first-class ambulatory solutions throughout the United States. We are committed to providing surgical services in the most efficient and clinically excellent manner.

USPI is committed to, and proud of our inclusive culture. An inclusive culture, in our view, is respectful of differences and nurtures and supports the contributions of each individual, while also embracing and leveraging diversity. A diverse workforce, combined with an inclusive culture, makes USPI stronger and better able to meet the needs of our diverse patient and physician population.


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