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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Surgical Technologist - CVOR

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$26.80 - $40.20/hr

HSHS is seeking a Surgical Technologist to work specifically in the CVOR. Ideal candidates are ... assist with certain administrative aspects of the recruitment process. These tools may help our ...

Surgical Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per ... About PRN Healthcare Our story starts with a 21-year-old CNA named Pete Hietpas. Pete was ...

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OR Surgical Tech About PRN Healthcare Our story starts with a 21-year-old CNA named Pete Hietpas. Pete was diligently working in eastern Wisconsin with a variety of staffing agencies, but something ...

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PRN Healthcare is seeking a travel Surgical Technician for a travel job in Neenah, Wisconsin ... About PRN Healthcare Our story starts with a 21-year-old CNA named Pete Hietpas. Pete was ...

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OR Surgical Tech About PRN Healthcare Our story starts with a 21-year-old CNA named Pete Hietpas. Pete was diligently working in eastern Wisconsin with a variety of staffing agencies, but something ...

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Certified Surgical Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 09/20/2026 ... They offer local and travel jobs and match caregivers with the right organization to assist both ...

Surgical Technician * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 09/07/2026 * Duration ... They offer local and travel jobs and match caregivers with the right organization to assist both ...

Certified Surgical Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 09/21/2026 ... They offer local and travel jobs and match caregivers with the right organization to assist both ...

Travel Med Surg RN

Neenah, WI · On-site

$1.9K - $2.0K/wk

Prepare patients for diagnostic procedures, assist physicians during treatments, and monitor ... Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with first day coverage * Paid Time Off (PTO ...

Travel Med Surg RN

Appleton, WI · On-site

$1.9K - $2.0K/wk

Prepare patients for diagnostic procedures, assist physicians during treatments, and monitor ... Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with first day coverage * Paid Time Off (PTO ...

Travel Med Surg RN

Appleton, WI · On-site

$1.9K - $2.0K/wk

Prepare patients for diagnostic procedures, assist physicians during treatments, and monitor ... Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with first day coverage * Paid Time Off (PTO ...

Travel Med Surg RN

Appleton, WI · On-site

$1.9K - $2.0K/wk

Prepare patients for diagnostic procedures, assist physicians during treatments, and monitor ... Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with first day coverage * Paid Time Off (PTO ...

Showing results 21-40

Surgical First Assistant information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$16

$36

$74

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Appleton, WI is $36.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.33 and $40.82 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.

What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Appleton, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Appleton, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Appleton, WI are:

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,415 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Surgical Technologist - Nights

Hospital Sisters Health System

Green Bay, WI • On-site

$26.80 - $40.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Hospital Sisters Health System rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

499th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Pay Range:
$26.80 - $40.20
A successful candidate's actual pay rate will be based on several factors including relevant experience, skills, training, certifications and education.
Hospital Sister Health System is seeking a Surgical Technologist who is looking to make a positive impact on the lives of every patient as part of a skilled and collaborative surgical team. Ideal candidates are patient focused, mission driven caregivers, looking for an opportunity to apply clinical knowledge and training as part of our surgical team.
Position Specifics:
oDepartment: Surgery
oCore Function: Surgical Tech
oSchedule: 36 hrs/wk, Variable Nights (8-9 Hour shifts)
oFacility: Green Bay - St. Vincent's Hospital
oClinic Location: Green Bay, WI
Compensation that aligns with your experience
Education Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED is required.
  • Associates degree in surgical technology is preferred.
  • Graduate from a recognized surgical technology program or has successfully completed military training in surgical technology is required.
  • Military documentation to establish education includes a DD214 demonstrating graduation from a military training program.
  • Illinois: High School Diploma or GED PLUS 3 years working as a Surgical Technologist working in healthcare setting may be considered in lieu of education.
Experience Qualifications
  • 1 year surgery experience is preferred.
Certifications, Licenses and Registrations
  • One of the following certifications is required: Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) issued by National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) OR Tech in Surgery (TS-C) issued by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) is required.
Job Description
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
36
Throughout communities in Illinois and Wisconsin, 13 hospitals, numerous community-based health centers and clinics, our 13,000+ colleagues have built a culture based on our solid core values of respect, care, competence, and joy. These are the ideals we believe in, work by, and live each day.
Built upon more than 145 years of service to the communities we serve, we now look to the future and our place in it as a healthcare system that strives to continually improve processes, procedures, and outcomes with the latest and most advanced technologies and treatments.
Regardless of how far our passion for excellence carries us, our focus will always remain on the most important person in our entire organization: The patient.
Benefits: HSHS provides a benefits package designed to support the overall well-being of our colleagues including their physical, emotional, financial, spiritual, and work health. Colleagues budgeted to work at least 32 hours per pay period are eligible for HSHS benefits.
  • Comprehensive and affordable health coverage includes medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage for full-time and part-time colleagues.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) combines vacation, sick, and personal days into one balance to allow you the flexibility to use your time off as you need.
  • Retirement benefits including HSHS
    contributions.
  • Education Assistance benefits include up to $5,250 of educational assistance each calendar year and tuition discounts to select colleges with no waiting period.
  • Adoption Assistance provides financial support up to $7,500 for colleagues growing their families through adoption to reimburse application and legal fees, transportation, and more!
  • Other benefits include: Wellness program with incentives, employer-paid life insurance and short-term and long-term disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, ID theft coverage, colleague rewards and recognition program, discount program, and more!

Benefits
HSHS and affiliates is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
HSHS is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace dedicated to pursuing and hiring a diverse workforce.
Notice Regarding Potential Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Hiring Process
Hospital Sisters may use automated tools, including artificial intelligence or machine-learning technologies, to assist with certain administrative aspects of the recruitment process. These tools may help our recruiting team organize applications, search for resumes, identify qualifications reflected in application materials, and facilitate communications or scheduling with applicants.
Information used by these tools may include materials you provide during the application process, such as your resume, work history, education, qualifications, and responses to application questions.
These tools are used only to support our recruiting process. Hiring decisions are made by HSHS personnel, and automated tools do not make employment decisions on behalf of HSHS.
Applicants who have questions about this notice or who require a reasonable accommodation or alternative evaluation method may contact HSHS Human Resources at Contact@hshs.org

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About Hospital Sisters Health System

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) is a trusted leader in the health care industry, situated in Springfield, IL, US. The company kick-started its noble cause when an American province of The Hospital Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis laid its foundation in 1875. HSHS is a non-profit, mission-driven health systems organization, committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered medical care. The company operates 15 hospitals, numerous community-based health clinics and centers, and several home health agencies, serving neighborhoods across Illinois and Wisconsin.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

1978