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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Medlivo

Travel RN First Assist

Clackamas, OR · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days ... surgeons during perioperative procedures and maintaining sterile technique. • Required ...

Kaiser Permanente

RN, OR First Assist

Clackamas, OR · On-site

Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... KAISER TITLE: RN, OR First Assist LOCATION: Clackamas, Oregon REQNUMBER: 1425632 External hires ...

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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 18, 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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For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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.

Surgical Technologist First Assistant

Legacy Health

Silverton, OR • On-site

$40.06 - $57.28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

You are the go-to person ensuring that every detail is arranged for surgical services. You’re also an important presence within the surgical field, as you pass proper instruments and supplies to other members of the surgical team. Your ability to work in a fast-paced environment as you carry on the Legacy mission of making life better for others will allow you to thrive in our supportive healthcare community.


Functions as a first assistant during surgical incision, excision, and repair of pathology and throughout the perioperative period on procedures for which privileges have been granted. Will perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.


Experience:

  • 1-year Surgical Technologist experience preferred.

Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Graduation from an accredited Surgical Technologist program or completion of a military training program for surgical technologists, or equivalent experience.

  • As of January 1, 2017, in lieu of the formal Surgical Technologist training program requirement, may substitute professional experience if candidate has worked 2 out of last 3 years as Surgical Technologist.

  • Must have completed an accredited First Assistant program or a Legacy-offered course in First Assisting, within 12 months of hire.


  • American Heart Association approved BLS certification required.
  • For new hires after July 1, 2016 not meeting the previous experience provision noted in the Education section:  Current certification as Surgical Technologist or certification as Surgical Technologist within 12 months of graduation from Surg Tech program.

USD $40.06 - USD $57.28 /Hr.

Our Legacy is good for health for Our People, Our Patients, Our Communities, Our World. Above all, we will do the right thing.


If you are passionate about our mission and believe you can contribute to our team, we encourage you to apply—even if you don't meet every qualification listed. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can grow and succeed.


Legacy Health is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion or creed, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To learn more about our employee benefits click here: www.legacyhealth.org/For-Health-Professionals/careers/benefiting-you

Apply