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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

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$15

$36

$72

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Baton Rouge, LA is $36.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $40.19 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 operations, requiring certification and knowledge of surgical procedures. It offers a stable job outlook with opportunities for specialization and advancement, often involving working in hospitals or surgical centers. The role demands strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments.

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 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 fields can also influence earning potential.
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Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,210 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Travel Surgical Tech (OR Tech)

Nurses Direct, LLC.

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$1.6K/wk

Contractor

Medical

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description


3x 12h or 4x 10h or 5x 8h
(on call discussed with interview - possibility of NO call)
Preparing the operating room
Ensuring the operating room is safe and sterile, and that all equipment is functioning properly
Preparing patients
Washing and disinfecting incision sites, and transporting patients to the operating room
Assisting during surgery
Passing sterile instruments and supplies to the surgeon, holding organs in place, and maintaining a sterile field
Counting supplies
Ensuring that no foreign objects are left in the patient by counting instruments and sponges before and after surgery
Cleaning up after surgery
Performing wound care, such as bandaging and dressing incisions, and restocking the operating room
Participating in quality improvement
Participating in debriefing and quality improvement practices to ensure quality patient care
Surgical technologists need to be knowledgeable about human anatomy, surgical procedures, and sterile and aseptic technique.
They also need to be able to stand for long periods and remain alert during operations.
Requirements
Education
Required - surgical tech training (formal or informal).
Preferred - certification in hand
Certifications
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association.
Preferred - Certification in clinical specialty area.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)
  • Proficiency in using computers, software, and web-based applications.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to present information clearly and professionally.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Good organizational and time management skills and ability to be self-directed.
  • Ability to demonstrate good judgement.

Benefits
Health insurance available upon start of assignment.

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