RN, FIRST ASSIST
Clackamas, OR · On-site
$58.59/hr
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, FIRST ASSIST
Clackamas, OR · On-site
$58.59/hr
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, FIRST ASSIST
Clackamas, OR · On-site
$58.59/hr
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, FIRST ASSIST
Clackamas, OR · On-site
$58.59/hr
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
RN, OR First Assist
Clackamas, OR · On-site
Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical ... First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA ...
Surgical First Assistant information
See Portland, OR salary details
$17.59 - $23.31
2% of jobs
$23.31 - $29.04
11% of jobs
$31.02 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$29.04 - $34.76
36% of jobs
The median wage is $35.21 / hr.
$34.76 - $40.49
20% of jobs
$42.47 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$40.49 - $46.21
19% of jobs
$46.21 - $51.94
9% of jobs
$51.94 - $57.66
2% of jobs
$57.66 - $63.38
1% of jobs
$63.38 - $69.11
0% of jobs
$69.11 - $74.83
0% of jobs
$74.83 - $80.56
0% of jobs
$17
$39
$80
How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Portland, OR is $39.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.88 and $44.38 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?
| Aspect | Surgical First Assistant | Surgical Technologist |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), surgical assisting certifications | Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), surgical tech certifications |
| Work Environment | Assist surgeons during procedures, work closely in the operating room | Prepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, assist in setup |
| Employer & Industry | Hospitals, surgical centers, clinics | Hospitals, surgical centers, outpatient facilities |
| Common Search/Comparison | Yes | No |
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 are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Portland, OR?
For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?
The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?
Cities near Portland, OR with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:
Kaiser Permanente rating
8.2
Based on 928 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
55th of 898 rated healthcare providers
Job description
Job Summary:
Provides assistance to the surgical team during the intra-operative phase of surgical care for the Northwest Surgical Services region. Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team in the performance of surgical procedures, including assessment, planning, directing, providing and evaluating advanced nursing care. All RNFAs will participate in a regional on-call rotation to provide surgical assistance for elective, emergent and urgent surgical cases.
Essential Responsibilities:
- Representative Functions or Duties: Practice standards of performance: Pre-operative. Performs pre-operative assessment and evaluation. Collaborates with the surgical team on plan of care. Intra-operative: Provides knowledge based technical assistance to the surgeon during the operative procedure according to AORN standards, licensure, state regulation and facility/practice protocols, including: Using instruments and medical devices. Providing surgical exposure. Handling and/or cutting tissue. Providing hemostatis, clamp, cut, and ligate tissue as directed by the surgeon. Suturing as directed by the surgeon. Post-Operative. Evaluates the patient post-operatively according to facility protocols.
- Assessment Standard of Performance & Planning: Communicates information so that continuity of care is maintained. Communicates with patient, family and other staff in a professional and courteous manner. Obtains and demonstrates the skills and knowledge needed to provide appropriate population based and culturally sensitive care to patients and families through education, training and experience. Provides continuous reassessment through the intra operative period. Utilizes knowledge of type of procedure to plan for appropriate set up.
- Practice standards of performance: Function as an assistant in all surgical specialties at the direction of the attending surgeon. Performs RNFA responsibilities in accordance with the Nurse Practice Act of the State of Oregon, institutional policies and procedures of Kaiser Permanente and the AORN Position Statement on RN First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA specific clinical skills. Review and update skills checklist on an ongoing basis as specified by policies of Kaiser Permanente. Intra operative nursing behaviors include: handling tissue, providing exposure, using instruments, clamp, cut, and legate as directed by the surgeon, providing homeostasis, suturing as directed by the surgeon. Assists with room preparation in collaboration with the Circulating Nurse and scrub person. Brings patient X-rays into room NOTE: Notifies Charge Nurse or designee if films are not available. Assists in patient transport to the operating room and patient transfer to the operating room table. Provides assistance to Anesthesia during induction. Participates in pre-op briefing time out process. Assists in patient position. Assists in patient preparation, i.e., prepping, catheterization, shaving, as necessary. Assists in patient draping. Sets up ESU, lights, suction for the sterile field. Monitors free counted items on the sterile field. Observes for breaks in sterile technique and takes appropriate action as necessary.
- Assists with instrumentation and equipment as requested. Applies dressings and secures drainage tubes. Assists with patient transfer and positioning post operatively. Assists with room tear down and turn over in collaboration with the Circulating Nurse and scrub person. May perform pre and post-operative patient education as designated. Review chart for pertinent data. Assist in maintaining a safe environment and promoting efficiency in surgical. Procedures.
Basic Qualifications:
Experience
- Minimum two (2) years of peri-operative scrubbing and circulating experience in a KP OR or one (1) year experience as an RNFA in or outside of KP.
Education
- Certification of Completion from AORN recognized RNFA course.
- Successful completion of an RNFA program that meets the AORN Recommended Education Standards for RNFA and criteria for the CB.PMN acceptance program.
License, Certification, Registration
- Registered Nurse License (Oregon)
- Nurse Operating Room Certificate
- Basic Life Support
Additional Requirements:
- Meets all qualification of an RNFA as outlined in AORN Position Statement.
- Must maintain CNOR and RN licensure with the required amount of Continuing Education.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Minimum two (2) years of practice as an RNFA.
- CRNFA certification preferred.
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) required upon hire/transfer preferred.
What Kaiser Permanente employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
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About Kaiser Permanente
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Health care and social assistance, hospitals and arts, entertainment, and recreation
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Oakland, CA, US