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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Meridian, ID (NOW HIRING)

OR Assistants are primarily responsible for housekeeping duties within surgical services. They are ... You will meet with the OR Educators typically your first week. They train on equipment, positioning ...

At Aspen Dental, we put You First, offering the security and job stability that comes with working ... When you join our team as an Oral Surgeon Dental Assistant , you will have the opportunity to give ...

At Aspen Dental, we put You First, offering the security and job stability that comes with working ... When you join our team as an Oral Surgeon Dental Assistant , you will have the opportunity to give ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Meridian, ID salary details

$16

$36

$73

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Meridian, ID is $36.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.13 and $40.53 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.

What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Meridian, ID?

For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Meridian, ID, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Meridian, ID look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Meridian, ID are:

What cities near Meridian, ID are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Meridian, ID with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Meridian, ID as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% In-person, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $73,850 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Operating Room Assistant - Boise

Trinity Health

Boise, ID • On-site

Full-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Trinity Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

572nd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:
Full timeShift:
Day Shift
Description:
Position Summary & Highlights:
We are now hiring for an Operating Room (OR) Assistant at our Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise (I-184 and Curtis Road)!
Our dedicated team of surgeons utilize the most advanced technology to deliver the highest quality of care for all types of patients including the critically ill and injured with the only Level II Trauma Center in the region.
OR Assistants are primarily responsible for housekeeping duties within surgical services. They are also responsible for transporting supplies and equipment and preparing case carts.
Orientation/Training:
  • Flexible based on availability. It is highly recommended to orientate and train at least 2 - 3 days/week, until you are fully trained.
  • Orientation can be 6 - 8 weeks and new hires are trained in all three service areas (Ortho, Neuro, and General).
  • You will meet with the OR Educators typically your first week. They train on equipment, positioning, and body mechanics.

What You Will Do:
  • Support staff by preparing case carts that include all necessary surgery supplies, suture, and equipment based on surgeon's preference.
  • Clean and turnover operating rooms including all equipment, bed, floor, appliances, and overhead lights in the ORs or that were used on the particular cases.
  • Transport dirty case carts to decontamination area and sends to Sterile Processing on dirty elevator. Logs in specimens and places in appropriate area.
  • Transport supplies, specimens, x-rays, blood products, and beds.
  • Provide necessary articles for transport, including oxygen tanks, monitors, patient charts, documents, and supplies, and transport recovery beds or patient beds to appropriate rooms.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Experience working in housekeeping, central supply or surgery transportation preferred.
  • Knowledge of surgical instrumentation and supplies preferred.

Highlights and Benefits
When Saint Alphonsus takes care of you, you can take better care of our patients. We foster personal and professional growth and offer opportunities that empower our colleagues to develop their careers. Our belief in work-life balance compliments the natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and outdoor recreation lifestyle that is unique to Idaho and Oregon.
  • We offer market-competitive pay, generous PTO, and multiple options for comprehensive benefits that begin on day one.
  • Benefits for your future include retirement planning and matching, college savings plans for your family, and multiple life insurance plans that can change as your needs develop.
  • We are proud to offer Employee Assistance Programs, tuition reimbursement, and educational opportunities to help you learn and grow.

Visit www.saintalphonsus.org/careers to learn more!
Saint Alphonsus Facility Information:
Saint Alphonsus Health System is a faith-based ministry and not-for-profit health system serving Idaho, Oregon, and northern Nevada communities. The health system boasts 4 hospitals, 609 licensed beds, and 73 clinic locations. Through innovative technologies, compassionate staff, and healing environments, Saint Alphonsus' goal is to improve the health and well-being of people by emphasizing care that is patient-centered, physician-led, innovative, and community-based.
  • Top 15 Health Systems in the country by IBM Watson Health;
  • The region's most advanced Trauma Center (Level II);
  • Commission on Cancer Accredited Program through demonstrating an uncompromising commitment to improving patient survival and quality of life.

Our Commitment
Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US