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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

HiredFirst

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.1K - $2.3K/wk

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) | Portland, OR Join a leading healthcare organization committed to delivering exceptional surgical care. Adventist Health Portland is seeking a skilled and ...

Medlivo

Travel First Assist Technician

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$38K - $40K/yr

Travel Requirements 1 years of recent Surgical First Assistant experience required. Active Oregon Surgical Tech/First Assist license Active BLS Certification One of the following certifications is ...

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All JobsSurgical First JobsSurgical First Assistant JobsSurgical First Assistant Jobs in Oregon

Surgical First Assistant information

See Oregon salary details

$17

$39

$80

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Oregon is $39.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.78 and $44.23 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 Oregon are:

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 70% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,802 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Certified Surgical First Assistant

HiredFirst

Portland, OR • On-site

$2.1K - $2.3K/wk

Contractor

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) | Portland, OR

Join a leading healthcare organization committed to delivering exceptional surgical care. Adventist Health Portland is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) to support surgeons in providing high-quality operative care in a fast-paced surgical environment.

As part of a multidisciplinary surgical team, you will play a key role in ensuring patient safety, maintaining sterile technique, and assisting in critical intraoperative procedures.

What You’ll Do:

  • Assist the primary surgeon during surgical procedures, including exposure, hemostasis, suturing, and tissue handling

  • Prepare and position patients for surgery while ensuring safety and comfort

  • Maintain a sterile operating environment and assist with surgical draping and setup

  • Perform wound closure and apply surgical dressings as directed

  • Verify surgical consent, patient history, diagnostic results, and operative readiness

  • Ensure availability and proper setup of surgical instruments, equipment, and implants

  • Assist with pre-operative and post-operative tasks to support optimal patient outcomes

  • Monitor operating room conditions including temperature, lighting, and equipment readiness

  • Collaborate closely with surgeons, nurses, and OR staff to ensure efficient procedures

What You’ll Bring:

  • High School Diploma or GED required

  • Associate’s Degree or equivalent experience preferred

  • Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) certification required

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required

  • Strong attention to detail and ability to perform in a high-pressure surgical setting

  • Ability to follow instructions and work under defined clinical parameters

Why Join Adventist Health Portland:
Adventist Health Portland has served East Portland since 1893 and continues to provide whole-person care across a wide network of services, including advanced cardiovascular care through the Northwest Heart Center. Located in a vibrant region offering outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and city life, this is a place where professional growth and lifestyle come together.

Join a team dedicated to surgical excellence and compassionate patient care—apply today.