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

3B Healthcare, Inc.

CST - First Assist

Beloit, WI · On-site

CST - First AssistLocation: Beloit, WIDuration: Full-time/PermanentShift: 12 Hour NightsShift time: 10 Hour DaysGuaranteed hours: 40/week First Assist in the specialties of General, Ortho, Urology ...

3B Healthcare, Inc.

CST - First Assist

Beloit, WI · On-site

CST - First AssistLocation: Beloit, WIDuration: Full-time/PermanentShift: 12 Hour NightsShift time: 10 Hour DaysGuaranteed hours: 40/week First Assist in the specialties of General, Ortho, Urology ...

TNAA

Operating Room (OR) Registered Nurse RN

Rockford, IL · On-site

$69.73/hr

Inventory of surgical items pre- and post-procedure. Additional duties for RN First Assistant may include: * Assist physicians by delivering direct surgical care. * Help control bleeding. * Suture ...

TNAA TotalMed RN

Travel OR RN

Rockford, IL · On-site

Additional duties for RN First Assistant may include: * Assist physicians by delivering direct surgical care. * Help control bleeding. * Suture patients following surgery. OR Travel Nurses should be ...

TNAA TotalMed RN

Travel OR RN

Rockford, IL · On-site

Additional duties for RN First Assistant may include: * Assist physicians by delivering direct surgical care. * Help control bleeding. * Suture patients following surgery. OR Travel Nurses should be ...

TNAA TotalMed RN

Travel OR RN

Rockford, IL · On-site

Additional duties for RN First Assistant may include: * Assist physicians by delivering direct surgical care. * Help control bleeding. * Suture patients following surgery. OR Travel Nurses should be ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Beloit, 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 Beloit, WI is $36.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.38 and $40.91 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 Beloit, WI?

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

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

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Beloit, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,594 per year, or $36.8 per hour.

Surgical Tech First Assist Coordinator, Operating Room - Variable Shift

Mercyhealth

Janesville, WI • On-site

$32.47 - $48.70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist the surgical team by preparing operating room equipment, supplies, and instruments according to instructions.

  • Support the surgical team during procedures by handing instruments, holding retractors, assisting with patient positioning, and performing tasks as directed by the surgeon.

  • Perform sterilization, cleaning, and dressing of surgical equipment and the operating room, and assist with patient transfer and post-operative dressing procedures.

Mercy Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 384 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

454th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

OVERVIEW
Provides comprehensive support to the surgical team before, during, and after surgical procedures, ensuring efficient workflow, patient safety, and a high standard of care. Performs assigned duties and responsibilities as needed to support the surgical team and department.
Schedule: 40 hours per week
Shift: Variable
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Places equipment and supplies in operating room and arranges instruments, according to instructions.
  • Assists team members to place and position patient on table.
  • Scrubs arms and hands and dons gown and gloves.
  • Maintains supply of fluids, such as plasma, saline, blood, and glucose for use during operation.
  • Hands instruments and supplies to surgeon, holds retractors, cuts sutures, and performs other tasks as directed by surgeon during operation.
  • Puts dressings on patient following surgery.
  • Counts sponges, needles, and instruments before and after operation.
  • Washes and sterilizes equipment.
  • Cleans operating room.
  • The surgical assistant facilitates the safe positioning of the patient according to the surgeon's preference, patient's anatomical and physiological limits and surgical procedure to be performed. A preoperative introduction visit may be done to assess the surgical site to better aid in positioning. Assists circulator and anesthesia provider in preparation of the patient of the patient.
  • The surgical assistant performs specific tasks according to individual surgeon preference utilizing appropriate techniques including, but not limited to incision and layered closure of surgical sites, providing exposure, achieving hemostasis by means of injection, manual and topical methods, and application of appropriate energy sources, manipulation and dissection/removal of tissues, aides in implanting, securing and /or removal of devices and drains, and applying appropriate dressing material specific to procedure.
  • The surgical assistant applies any other specific dressing material such as splints or casts, assess skin integrity, assists in transfer of the patient, and follow the patient to recovery if needed or directly by the surgeon.
  • The surgical assistant who has appropriate training also performs under surgeon supervision other procedures including but not limited to: vein and graft harvesting, graft and implant preparation, assist in robotic procedures after education has been accomplished in these areas.
  • The surgical assistant performs additional duties as delegated by the surgeon in cooperation with state and local policy.
  • The coordinator will assist the director in training and scheduling for other surgical assistants to cover staffing and on call needs.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
Graduate from Surgical Technology program which has been accredited by CAAHEP
Three to Five years experience in role of First Assist
CERTIFICATION/LICENSURE
NTSBSA, CSFA, or ABSA certification
OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
LEVEL OF SUPERVISION
Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems; employee adherence to annual education and certification requirements
SUPERVISES
Directly supervises technicians in the Surgical First Assist. Supervisory responsibilities are conducted in accordance with directives of management, the organization's policies, and applicable laws.
PAY RANGE:
$32.47 - $48.70
Mercyhealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Mercyhealth offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • FSA/HSA Options
  • Generous, accruing paid time off
  • Paid Parental and caregiver leave
  • Career advancement and educational opportunities
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Certification Reimbursement
  • Well-being Programs
  • Employee Discounts
  • On-Demand Pay
  • Financial Education
  • Annual recognition/awards events
  • Partner appreciation days
  • Family entertainment/attractions discount
  • Community service/improvement opportunities

Click here for more details regarding Mercyhealth Careers Benefit Information.
At Mercyhealth, we don't simply hire people, we empower employee-partners who are passionate about making lives better. As an integrated health system, we deliver exceptional, coordinated across seven hospitals, 85 primary and specialty clinics, and a team of over 7,500 professionals serving northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.
Mercyhealth has been nationally recognized for our commitment to our people and culture, including:
  • #1 in the nation on AARP's Best Employers for Workers Over 50
  • One of Working Mother magazine's 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers
  • A Top 50 Company and Top 10 Nonprofit for Executive Women

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About Mercyhealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Mercyhealth, we don’t simply hire people – instead, we empower talented, dedicated health care professionals to provide the highest quality patient care possible with a passion for making lives better. As an integrated health care provider, we provide exceptional, coordinated health care. The organization consists of seven hospitals, 85+ clinics, and more than 7,500 employee-partners to serve patients in 15 counties throughout northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. We hope you’ll consider becoming the newest member of the Mercyhealth family and join our passion for making lives better!

Industry

Hospitals, fitness and sports centers and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Janesville, WI, US

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