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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Jackson, MS (NOW HIRING)

Surgery Partners

Surgical Tech - PRN

Madison, MS · On-site

$24/hr

May assist with positioning on the procedure table * Drapes the patient with surgical drapes per procedure to be performed * Passes instruments and other sterile supplies to surgeons and surgeon ...

Surgery Partners

Surgical Tech - PRN

Madison, MS · On-site

May assist with positioning on the procedure table * Drapes the patient with surgical drapes per procedure to be performed * Passes instruments and other sterile supplies to surgeons and surgeon ...

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$14

$32

$66

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Jackson, MS is $32.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $36.44 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.
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Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Jackson, MS as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,246 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

SURGICAL TECHNOLOGIST - FIRST ASSIST REQUIRED

Flowood, MS • On-site

Mississippi Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center
Outpatient Health Care • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Mississippi Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Centerexternal

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Surgical Technologist – First Assist

The Surgical Technologist – First Assist is responsible for providing intraoperative technical support to the surgeon while maintaining a safe and sterile environment throughout all surgical procedures.

Responsibilities include:

  • Setting up the instruments and equipment required for each procedure
  • Sterilizing equipment and managing surgical inventory to ensure adequate supplies
  • Preparing the patient for surgery according to established protocols
  • Passing instruments and sterile supplies to the surgeon throughout the operation
  • Providing direct first assist support during surgical procedures, including retraction, exposure, hemostasis, suturing, and other tasks as delegated by the surgeon
  • Anticipating the needs of the surgeon to ensure efficient surgical flow
  • Taking a count of all surgical instruments and supplies prior to the operation
  • Recounting surgical instruments and supplies at the end of the operation
  • Maintaining an overall sterile environment throughout the surgery
  • Assisting with patient positioning, draping, and wound closure as directed

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program required
  • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) required
  • Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or documented First Assist experience required
  • Orthopaedic surgical experience preferred
  • Current BLS certification required

Team Player: Works well as a member of a group

Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well

Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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