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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

CT Assist

Travel Surgical First Assistant

Midland, TX · On-site

$2.0K - $3.0K/wk

Surgical First Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel Looking for your next locums ...

Methodist Hospital Metropolitan

First Assist

Cibolo, TX · On-site

The Surgical First Assistant works as a member of the perioperative team under the direction of the surgeon. He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical First ...

Methodist Hospital Metropolitan

First Assist

Cibolo, TX · On-site

The Surgical First Assistant works as a member of the perioperative team under the direction of the surgeon. He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical First ...

Methodist Hospital

First Assist

San Antonio, TX · On-site

The Surgical First Assistant lead works as a member of the perioperative team under the direction of the surgeon. He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical ...

Methodist Hospital

First Assist

San Antonio, TX · On-site

The Surgical First Assistant lead works as a member of the perioperative team under the direction of the surgeon. He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical ...

Methodist Hospital

First Assist

Cibolo, TX · On-site

The Surgical First Assistant lead works as a member of the perioperative team under the direction of the surgeon. He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical ...

Methodist Hospital

First Assist

New Braunfels, TX · On-site

The Surgical First Assistant lead works as a member of the perioperative team under the direction of the surgeon. He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical ...

Methodist Hospital

First Assist

Schertz, TX · On-site

The Surgical First Assistant lead works as a member of the perioperative team under the direction of the surgeon. He/she performs responsibilities of both the Surgical Technologist and the Surgical ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Texas salary details

$15

$35

$70

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Texas is $35.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.98 and $38.99 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

What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Texas?

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

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

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

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

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,963 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Travel Surgical First Assistant

CT Assist

Midland, TX • On-site

$2.0K - $3.0K/wk

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

CT Assist is seeking a travel Surgical First Assistant for a travel job in Midland, Texas.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Surgical First Assistant
  • Discipline: Allied Health Professional
  • Start Date: ASAP
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 8 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel

Looking for your next locums assignment? We’d love to hear from you. We are committed to helping you find the assignment that best fits your skills and lifestyle.

  • CVOR CSFA
  • Full-time
  • Start: As soon as possible
  • Duration: 6+ months 
  • Required: Must have 3+ years of experience with first assisting in the CVOR and with eVH
  • EMR: Cerner
  • EVH System: Terumo
  • Location: Texas
  • Must have 3 or more years of experience in cardiothoracic / cardiovascular surgery / CVICU -OR- equivalent case volume
  • Competitive compensation ($2000-$3000/week based on related experience/case volume + $1729/week tax free stipend) and benefits packages
  • Certified by The Joint Commission

CT Assist is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, veteran status, age, disability, medical conditions, genetics, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in every location in which CT Assist conducts business.

KEYWORDS: PA, NP, cardiothoracic, cardiovascular, cardiac, endoscopic vein harvest, EVH, CVOR, CABG, thoracentesis, central line, arterial line, chest tube, ICU, CVICU, CTICU, CCU, stepdown

CT Assist Job ID #4555. Pay package is based on 8 hour shifts and 40.0 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Allied Health Professional

About CT Assist

Why Are We Different? CT Assist Healthcare Staffing is the only staffing company that exclusively serves:
·   CVOR
·   CVICU & ICU
·   Perfusion
·   Advanced Practice
Why only cardiac and critical care? We were founded and are managed by active and former cardiac staff, which means we know the needs, the skills, and the challenges of cardiac and critical care staffing. We are not just recruiters, but employers who have your goals in mind while connecting you with travel, per diem, and permanent opportunities.
Why Cardiac & Critical Care Practitioners Choose Us? Your career should be an adventure. CT Assist Healthcare Staffing specializes in making sure that the adventure is a smooth one. We offer outstanding benefits and assistance with housing and travel, including:
·      Competitive Compensation Packages
·   Company-paid premiums for health insurance (medical, vision & dental) 
·      Company-paid life and accident insurance
·      Company-paid liability insurance
·      401K Plan
·      Direct Deposit
·      Recruiters who focus on what’s best for you

Apply