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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Surgical Assistant

Dover, OH · On-site

$45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) within the first year of hire * Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification ...

Surgical Assistant

Akron, OH

$45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) - National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting * Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) - National Commission for the Certification of Surgical ...

RNFA/SA/PA

Willoughby, OH · On-site

$2.0K/wk

Details Client Name UH Lake West Medical Center Job Type Travel Offering Allied Profession Surgical First Assist Specialty CSFA Job ID 35530516 Job Title RNFA/SA/PA Weekly Pay $2054.0 Shift Details ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Ohio salary details

$15

$35

$72

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Ohio is $35.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.56 and $39.76 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 cities in Ohio are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,454 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

$23.02 - $33.09/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 21 days ago


Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

389th of 1,059 rated hospitals


Job description

Description:

Location/Unit: Burnet - Main OR

Shift/Hours/FTE: PRN

Benefits Eligibility: Not Benefits Eligible

Working as a Surgical Tech at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center you will enjoy:

•The invaluable experience only a designated Level I Trauma Center can offer.

•Working closely and collaboratively with the surgical team, your assigned resource tech and surgeons.

•Making a difference in the lives of your patients, ranging from babies to young adults, and their families.

•The opportunities for professional growth from surg tech to specialized surg tech to lead surg tech.

Shift: Days

Weekly requirement: 40 hours/week plus call

Approximate pay range (based on experience): $26.00/hour to $32.97/hour; relocation bonus may be applicable


Assists in many operating room functions, including preparing the patient for surgery, ensuring the sterility of the operating room, operating equipment during surgery, and, in some instances, working as a surgical first assistant.

Qualifications:

Required:
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Associate’s degree in related field or equivalent

• Surgical Technologist certification within one year of hire

Preferred:

• Surgical Technologist certification

• Surgical Technologist experience

Comprehensive job description provided upon request. View employee benefits here: https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/careers/benefits

Cincinnati Children’s is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and treasures Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. We are committed to creating an environment of dignity and respect for all our employees, patients, and families. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, genetic information, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. EEO/AA/M/F/Veteran/Disability


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Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center logo

About Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, located in Cincinnati, OH, US, is a premier pediatric hospital renowned for its exceptional clinical services, research programs, and medical education. The healthcare institution, founded in 1883, holds a sterling reputation in the industry, with a mission to improve child health and transform delivery of care through fully integrated, globally recognized research, education and innovation. As one of the oldest and most distinguished pediatric hospitals in the United States, Cincinnati Children's continues to offer a broad range of high-quality, compassionate care to children in the community and around the globe. As a testament to its dedication, it has consistently been ranked among the top three US pediatric hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1883