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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Castleton, VT (NOW HIRING)

Lantern

Strategy Analyst

Rutland, VT · On-site

By curating a Network of Excellence comprised of the nation's top specialists for surgery, cancer ... This is a remote-first role with occasional (~1x month) travel. Responsibilities and Duties:

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Castleton, VT salary details

$16

$38

$77

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Castleton, VT is $38.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.67 and $42.69 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 cities near Castleton, VT are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Castleton, VT with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Castleton, VT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,900 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Licensed Nurse Assistant (LNA) - Post Acute - Full time day - Helen Porter Rehabilitation & Skilled

University of Vermont Health - Porter Medical Center

Middlebury, VT • On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Assist in providing nursing care and related non-professional services to residents by performing tasks for which the employee has been prepared as competent and in a mannger that meets or exceeds state, federal, and facility expectations
Education
High school graduate or equivalent preferred
Completion of state approved training and competency evaluation
Experience
LNA with good work history in similar facilities preferred, or enrollment in LNA program
Able to read, write, and speak English language
Able to communicate and work effectively with others.
 

LNA Sign-on Bonus: A $900 LNA sign-on bonus (subject to applicable taxes) is available for this position! The first half is payable after successful completion of the probationary period (typically 90 days), and the second half is payable after six months. Please note that current UVMHN employees are excluded from eligibility for this bonus.

Post Acute at Helen Porter
The goal of the Post Acute Unit at UVMHN Helen Porter Rehabilitation & Nursing is to provide supportive, goal-directed care following surgery and/or hospitalization. Specially-designed treatment programs provide patients with the preparation, support and education that enables them to return home as quickly as possible. Our goal is to help patients reach their highest possible level of independence.
A partial list of conditions we work with includes:

  • Strokes
  • Neurological conditions
  • Orthopedic care
  • Respiratory conditions
  • Cardiac and Post-Trauma situations

Routine Therapy services are provided Monday through Friday. We also have the capability of providing therapy six days a week if that is what is required to maximize positive results. Nursing staff provide the necessary extension of therapies when therapy staff are not present to provide direct service. This may include walking, exercises and supervision of other activities set up by the therapy staff. 
To learn more about UVMHN Helen Porter Rehabilitation & Nursing, please go to: http://helenporter.org/

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