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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Vermont (NOW HIRING)

Gifford Health Care

Surgical Technologist

Randolph, VT · On-site

$19.88 - $29.82/hr

The Surgical Technologist will also assist surgeons during surgical and endoscopic procedures, helping to execute the surgery as efficiently and smoothly as possible. The Surgical Technologist will ...

Gifford Health Care

Surgical Technologist

Randolph, VT · On-site

The Surgical Technologist will also assist surgeons during surgical and endoscopic procedures, helping to execute the surgery as efficiently and smoothly as possible. The Surgical Technologist will ...

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$17

$40

$80

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Vermont is $40.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.97 and $44.47 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.
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Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Vermont as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,269 per year, or $40 per hour.

Advanced Practice Provider - Rutland General Surgery

Rutland Regional Medical Center

Rutland, VT • On-site

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Rutland Regional Medical Center rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

825th of 1,060 rated hospitals

Job description

We are looking for an inpatient/outpatient clinical per diem Advanced Practitioner to join our General Surgery team. Our General Surgery practice is hospital owned. Under the direction of the General Surgery Medical Director and physicians, the APP will provide healthcare services to surgical patients, following established standards in both an inpatient and clinic setting. Surgical assisting in the OR is primary responsibility as well as inpatient/ ED consults and post op clinic patients. Educate patients on prescribed therapeutic regimens post-surgery and during follow-up care. Evaluates outcomes of direct patient care and consults with other specialists. Involves first call and first assist.
Under the direction of the Medical Director and/or physician, the Advanced Practice Provider (Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant) provides healthcare services to patients by following established standards, procedures and practices in their area of specialty. Obtains detailed history and performs physical or psychological examinations. Performs or orders X-rays, electrocardiograms, laboratory tests and other diagnostic procedures, and interprets results. Administers such therapeutic procedures as injections, immunizations, suturing and wound care. Provides physicians with assistance during surgery or medical procedures. Instructs patients on prescribed therapeutic regimens, home care and health maintenance. Evaluates outcomes of direct patient care and consults with other specialists as required. Maintains required records and writes progress notes on patient charts as to status, treatments and procedures. Provides preventative health care services to long-term patients and arranges consultations and referrals.
Minimum Education
  • Masters Degree in Nursing or Graduate of an American Medical Association approved Physician Assistant educational program.
Minimum Work Experience
  • 2 years of Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant experience in specialty area being sought (i.e., Pain Management, Orthopaedics, Emergency Medicine, Psychiatrics, Endocrinology or Oncology).
Required Licenses/Certifications
  • Licensed with the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation with advanced certification by a national certifying organization recognized by the Vermont Nursing Board's scope of practice.
or
  • Licensed by the Vermont Medical Board with certification by a national certifying organization recognized by the Vermont Medical Board for scope of practice.
  • Unit-specific certifications as required (ACLS, TNCC, PALS, ENPC) per specific department operational framework.
Completion of endorsed patient/visitor de-escalation and restraint program certification based on department specific guidelines.
Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
  • Able to take medical history, assess medical condition and interpret findings.
  • Able to prepare and maintain records, write reports and respond to correspondence.
  • Skilled in developing and maintaining quality assurance and a continuous quality improvement program.
  • Able to establish and maintain effective working relations with patients, staff, and public.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Knowledge of human relations, group dynamics, and quality improvement techniques.
  • Able to work in spite of interruptions.
  • Able to meet deadlines under pressure.
  • Microsoft Office desktop application and navigation skills.

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