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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Surgical First Assistant information

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$16

$36

$73

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Raleigh, NC is $36.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.23 and $40.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for specialized healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas with large hospitals and medical centers. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized surgical environments can also influence earning potential.

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 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 much does a surgical first assistant make an hour?

A surgical first assistant typically earns between $30 and $70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Certified assistants with specialized skills tend to earn higher wages, especially in hospitals or surgical centers that require advanced certifications and skills in sterile techniques and surgical procedures.

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.

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.

What does a first assist do in surgery?

A surgical first assistant helps the surgeon during procedures by controlling bleeding, holding tissues, suturing, and providing exposure of the surgical site. They must have knowledge of surgical instruments and sterile techniques and often work closely with the surgical team in the operating room.

What qualifications do you need to be a surgical assistant?

To become a surgical first assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA). Many employers prefer candidates with prior experience in healthcare, such as a surgical technologist or nurse, and strong knowledge of surgical procedures and sterile techniques.
More about Surgical First Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:
Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,125 per year, or $36.6 per hour.
Locums PA - General Surgery Position in North Carolina

Locums PA - General Surgery Position in North Carolina

CompHealth

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$90 - $115/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Posted 6 days ago
$90 - $115/hr Your compensation offer will be calculated according to your skills, experience, and qualifications. You may also be eligible to receive other taxable and non-taxable earnings, reimbursements, and benefits in addition to hourly rates. Please reach out to your consultant for more information.
Locum Tenens
Raleigh, North Carolina
Starting Soon
Quick Facts
  • Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri - 7:15 am - 5 pm depending on OR schedule
  • 1 long case or 2 - 3 shorter cases per day
  • Hospital setting - privileges required
  • First assist in OR - inpatient consults and rounds included
  • Robotic experience required
  • Hepatobiliary, stomach, pancreas, and soft tissue - open and laparoscopic
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About CompHealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CompHealth is a national leader in healthcare staffing, serving providers in more than 100 specialties. With available positions in all fifty states, we can help you find an opportunity in the area and type of facility that best fits your needs.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Midvale, UT, US

Year founded

1979

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