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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Dothan, AL (NOW HIRING)

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Surgical First Assistant information

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$15

$34

$69

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Dothan, AL is $34.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.31 and $38.03 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

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For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Dothan, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Dothan, AL are:

What cities near Dothan, AL are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Dothan, AL with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Dothan, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $71,195 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Physician Assistant - General Surgery - $100K-135K

Cottonwood, AL

She Recruits. LLC
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about She Recruits. LLCexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Physician Assistant – General Surgery

Hospital-Based | Full-Time | OR First Assist & Inpatient Care

A well-supported surgical team is seeking an experienced Physician Assistant with a strong background in General Surgery to join a busy hospital-based practice. This role is ideal for a PA who enjoys hands-on surgical care, inpatient management, and working closely with surgeons in a high-acuity environment.

The Opportunity

As a key member of the surgical team, you’ll play an integral role in both the operating room and inpatient setting. This position offers a balanced mix of OR first assist responsibilities, perioperative care, and patient management, supported by a collaborative, multidisciplinary care team.

Key Responsibilities

  • Serve as first assist during general surgery procedures

  • Provide comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care, including daily hospital rounds

  • Perform patient evaluations, including histories, physical exams, and perioperative assessments

  • Coordinate surgical consults and care plans in collaboration with attending surgeons

  • Perform bedside procedures such as wound care, drain and staple removal, and suturing

  • Educate patients and families on surgical procedures, recovery expectations, and follow-up care

  • Collaborate with nursing, anesthesia, and specialty teams to ensure optimal outcomes

  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the electronic health record (EHR)

  • Participate in quality improvement, workflow optimization, and patient safety initiatives

Qualifications

  • Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program

  • Board-Certified Physician Assistant

  • Active Alabama PA license or eligibility to obtain

  • 1–2+ years of experience in General Surgery or a surgical subspecialty preferred

  • Strong OR first-assist skills and procedural confidence

  • BLS and ACLS certification (or willingness to obtain)

  • Excellent communication skills and a team-oriented mindset

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive base salary with productivity incentives

  • Lucrative sign-on bonus and relocation assistance

  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans

  • Malpractice insurance coverage

  • CME allowance with paid CME time

  • Paid time off

  • Reimbursement for licensure and certification expenses

  • Supportive, team-focused surgical environment with strong clinical resources

Why This Role Stands Out

  • Hands-on surgical role with meaningful OR time

  • Hospital-based position with strong physician collaboration

  • Opportunity to grow clinically in a high-quality surgical program

  • Emphasis on teamwork, efficiency, and excellent patient care

The Bottom Line

This is a high-impact General Surgery PA role for a motivated clinician who wants to stay clinically sharp, work closely with surgeons, and be part of a collaborative hospital-based team.

Apply