ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

UVA Health

Surgical First Assistant

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$42.06/hr

Surgical First Assistant Job Code: SS1701 Work a minimum of 3 ten hour shifts 0700-1730 per 6 weeks and one call weekend call shift depending on departments needs per 6 weeks. ABOUT US We are ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$69.74/hr

Inova Fairfax Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! This position will be full time, days and shifts will vary based on case load. We offer great pay based on ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Inova Alexandria Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! Full-time (40 hrs/week) Day Shift: Monday-Friday, either two shifts-7:00am-3:00pm and two shifts-7:00am-7 ...

Inova

Surgical First Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$48.51 - $79.07/hr

Inova Alexandria Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! Full-time (40 hrs/week) Day Shift: Monday-Friday, either two shifts-7:00am-3:00pm and two shifts-7:00am-7 ...

Riverside

$38.60 - $53.08/hr

Overview The Surgical First Assistant serves as first or second assistant on all surgical cases, under the direction of the surgeon to provide technical assistance as required by the type of ...

Riverside Health System Non-Providers

$38.60 - $53.08/hr

Overview The Surgical First Assistant serves as first or second assistant on all surgical cases, under the direction of the surgeon to provide technical assistance as required by the type of ...

LewisGale Medical Center

Surgical First Assistant

Salem, VA · On-site

$30.64 - $42.90/hr

Do you want to join an organization that invests in you as a(an) Surgical First Assist PRN? At LewisGale Medical Center, you come first. HCA Healthcare has committed up to $300 million in programs to ...

UVA Health

Surgical First Assistant

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$30.55 - $50.50/hr

Surgical First Assistant Job Code: SS1701 4 ten hour days 0700-1730 with one call shift per week 1730-0700 and every 4th weekend Friday 1730-Monday 0700. ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of ...

Uniti Med

Travel Surgical First Assistant

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Specialty: Surgical First Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 08/31/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSurgical First JobsSurgical First Assistant JobsSurgical First Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Surgical First Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$16

$37

$75

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Virginia is $37.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.81 and $41.49 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 environments 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 much does a surgical first assistant make an hour?

A surgical first assistant typically earns between $30 and $70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Certified assistants with specialized skills tend to earn higher wages, especially in hospitals or surgical centers that require advanced certifications and skills in sterile techniques and surgical procedures.

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.

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 does a first assist do in surgery?

A surgical first assistant helps the surgeon during procedures by controlling bleeding, holding tissues, suturing, and providing exposure of the surgical site. They must have knowledge of surgical instruments and sterile techniques and often work closely with the surgical team in the operating room.

What qualifications do you need to be a surgical assistant?

To become a surgical first assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA). Many employers prefer candidates with prior experience in healthcare, such as a surgical technologist or nurse, and strong knowledge of surgical procedures and sterile techniques.
More about Surgical First Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:
Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,644 per year, or $37.3 per hour.
Surgical First Assistant

Surgical First Assistant

Inova Health System

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Inova Fairfax Hospital is looking for a dedicated Surgical First Assist to join the team! This position will be full time, days and shifts will vary based on case load. We offer great pay based on experience, sign-on bonus and relocation assistance, if eligible! Plus, don't forget about our other amazing benefits and perks!

Inova is consistently ranked as a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Inova Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, flexible work schedules, and remote and hybrid career opportunities

Surgical First Assistant Job Responsibilities:

  • The Surgical First Assistant ensures improvements in practice settings by assuming responsibility for self-development in life-long learning.
  • Provides direction and guidance to others regarding practice, serves as a resource preceptor, and mentor.
  • Provides safe therapeutic care by collaboration with surgeons and health care team in performing a safe operation with optimal outcomes for the patient.
  • Utilizes standards, guidelines and pathways for care delivery.
  • Incorporates data and information to continuously improve care and practice to enhance outcomes.
  • Teamwork-communicates effectively and works cooperatively with others and has respect for and understanding other clinical disciplines.
  • Serves as a resource in at least 2 specialty areas/procedures.
  • May perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: Completion of Surgical First Assistant program through an accredited organization; or Medical school graduate with surgical training; or completion of a surgical assistant training program during military service in the United States.
  • Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience as a Surgical First Assistant; or 2 years of Surgical Technologist experience
  • Certification: Basic Life Support from American Heart Association required upon start.
  • License: Licensed as Surgical Assistant in the Commonwealth of Virginia required upon start

Preferred experience:

  • AAS in Surgical Assisting or Surgical Technologist
  • Experience in the areas of Robotics, GYN and OB preferred.

Apply