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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Conway, SC (NOW HIRING)

Grand Strand Health

Surgery

Myrtle Beach, SC · On-site

Experience in EVH and 1st assist in surgery required * APP will be responsible for daily rounding on patients pre and post-operatively as well as conducting follow-up assessments in the clinic

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Conway, SC salary details

$14

$32

$64

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Conway, SC is $32.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.62 and $35.67 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 job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Conway, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Conway, SC are:

What cities near Conway, SC are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Conway, SC with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Conway, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,800 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Surgical Technologist/First Assist (PRN) - Carolina Forest

McLeod Health

Myrtle Beach, SC • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

McLeod Health rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

644th of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description


  1. Surgical First Assistants must be able to work flexible schedules to meet the needs of the department and Surgeon call schedule.
  2. Work under the supervision and delegator authority of a surgeon to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive and non-invasive surgical procedures, ensuring that the operating room environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.
  3. Possess extensive knowledge of an assigned surgeon's preferences and will serve as a resource person for other staff members.
  4. Insertion and Removal of Foley catheters per surgeon's directive.
  5. Ensures the availability and preparedness of OR rooms, supplies and equipment needed to support efficient and effective perioperative processes.
  6. Follows procedures regarding verification of medical implants.
  7. Responsible for having sterile instruments, sutures and equipment necessary for the surgical procedure, along with a working knowledge of each device.
  8. Verifies and maintains integrity of all sterile packaging and ensures all chemical indicators are visible and confirm correct sterilization results.
  9. Assists with positioning and prepping according to the standards of practice and policies and procedures of the department and the hospital.
  10. Performs initial instrument, sharps and sponge counts with the circulator and performs additional counts as necessary.
  11. Assists with draping the patient and establishing the sterile field.
  12. Participates in the surgical site and patient verification during the time out procedure.
  13. Required to maintain the sterile field to ensure patient/employee safety by maintaining highest standard of sterile technique during the procedure.
  14. Anticipates needs of the surgeon during the operative period.
  15. Provides visualization of the operative site. Must have knowledge of the human anatomy.
  16. Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist with hemostasis.
  17. Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist with closure of incision.
  18. Follows procedures as related to medication management on the surgical field. Handles and labels drugs and solutions under supervision.
  19. Postoperative Subcutaneous injection of local anesthetic per surgeon's directive.
  20. Application of appropriate wound dressings, including the following:
  21. Demonstrates competence in the preparation and care of specimens; accurately handles and passes off specimen(s) as appropriate.
  22. Assists in lifting, turning, positioning and preparing patients for surgical procedures, using proper body mechanics.
  23. Assists in maintaining a clean and safe environment.
  24. Follows Point-of-Use cleaning per orientation checklist.
  25. Cleans and prepares instruments for decontamination cleaning and terminal sterilization.
  26. Assists other members of the team with terminal cleaning of room.
  27. Assists with cleaning and preparation of the OR between procedures and after the last case; restocks supplies when necessary; performs periodic cleaning of storage areas and equipment as assigned.
  28. Uses standard precautions and appropriate personal protective equipment when working around or handling hazardous substances, including blood and body fluids.
  29. Call team responsibilities - readily available and reports to work promptly when "called in" on call within 30 minutes.
  30. The Surgical First Assistant seeks opportunities for professional growth through participation in continuing education, staff development and hospital committees.
  31. Performs all duties as assigned.

Position comes with a sign on bonus and relocation. Located in Myrtle Beach, SC!
Qualifications:
  • Experience as a Certified Surgical Technologist/First Assist
  • Certification from the NBSTSA
  • BLS certification

About Us
Founded in 1906, McLeod Health is a locally owned and managed, not for profit organization supported by the strength of more than 900 members on its medical staff and more than 2,900 licensed nurses. McLeod Health is also composed of approximately 15,000 team members and more than 90 physician practices throughout its 18-county service area. With seven hospitals, McLeod Health operates three Health and Fitness Centers, a Sports Medicine and Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, Hospice and Home Health Services. The system currently has 988 licensed beds, including Hospice and Behavioral Health. The hospitals within McLeod Health include: McLeod Regional Medical Center, McLeod Health Dillon, McLeod Health Loris, McLeod Health Seacoast, McLeod Health Cheraw, McLeod Health Clarendon and McLeod Behavioral Health.
About the Team
If you would enjoy working in a dynamic environment and are looking for an opportunity to become part of a stellar team of professionals, we invite you to apply online today. We are an equal opportunity employer.

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About McLeod Health

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McLeod Health is the region's destination for medical excellence. Our excellence extends from the Midlands to the Coast along the border of North and South Carolina - serving more than one million people. As medical needs grow - we grow, expand, and improve our facilities and services. The McLeod Health network is comprised of 7 hospitals with locations in Florence, Darlington, Dillon, Manning, Cheraw, Loris, and Little River. We have also expanded into the Carolina Forest area of Myrtle Beach for patients looking for primary care and family physicians. Founded over a century ago, McLeod is a locally owned, not-for-profit healthcare system which features the strength of more than 800 physicians and 2,000 registered nurses, and more than 8,500 employees. McLeod constantly seeks to improve patient care with efforts that are physician led, data-driven and evidence-based.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Florence, SC, US

Year founded

1906

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