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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Hudson Regional Hospital

Physician Assistant

Hoboken, NJ · On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

Surgical Assisting: Serve as First Assist in Orthopedic and Spine surgical procedures as directed by the surgeon, ensuring strict adherence to sterile techniques and patient safety protocols.

Hudson Regional Hospital

Physician Assistant

Bayonne, NJ · On-site

$101K - $137K/yr

Surgical Assisting: Serve as First Assist in Orthopedic and Spine surgical procedures as directed by the surgeon, ensuring strict adherence to sterile techniques and patient safety protocols.

Hudson Regional Hospital

Physician Assistant

Secaucus, NJ · On-site

$101K - $137K/yr

Surgical Assisting: Serve as First Assist in Orthopedic and Spine surgical procedures as directed by the surgeon, ensuring strict adherence to sterile techniques and patient safety protocols.

Prime Staffing

Travel RNFA First Assist

Greenwich, CT · On-site

Floating within surgical services may be expected. Compliance and onboarding take an average of 4-6 weeks . Requirements Required for Onboarding: * Active RN License * BLS Prime Staffing Job ID ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Ridgewood, NJ salary details

$16

$38

$76

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Ridgewood, NJ is $38.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.38 and $42.31 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

What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Ridgewood, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:

What cities near Ridgewood, NJ are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Ridgewood, NJ with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Ridgewood, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,238 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

SURGICAL (Orthopedic & Spine Surgery) Physician Assistant (PA-C)

CarePoint Health

Secaucus, NJ • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About Us

Welcome to Hudson Regional Health

Technology Transforming Care

Hudson Regional Health is a newly unified healthcare network serving Hudson County through four hospitals.

Together, these hospitals form a single, integrated system with a shared vision—to deliver modern, patient-first care supported by innovation. From robotic-assisted surgery and AI-powered diagnostics to real-time monitoring and precision neurosurgery, HRH is redefining what’s possible in community healthcare.

Patients across the region now have access to state-of-the-art procedures and nationally recognized specialists, all within a connected, local network designed to put care first.

Our Services

We focus on the care our patients need most, delivered with precision, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

  • Advanced Emergency Services - 24/7 emergency departments across all four hospitals
  • Robotic-Assisted Surgery - featuring the Da Vinci XI and ExcelsiusGPS systems
  • Neurosurgery & Spine Care - including Stealth Navigation and precision-guided treatment
  • Women’s Health & Maternity -comprehensive services tailored for every stage
  • Imaging & Diagnostics - AI-enhanced systems for faster, more accurate results
  • Outpatient & Specialty Care - coordinated care across multiple disciplines

Our HospitalsExplore our hospitals and discover care that’s high-tech, high-touch, and close to home:

  • Secaucus University Hospital, Flagship campus featuring the Robotic Surgery Institute and modernized emergency care.
  • Bayonne University Hospital, A full-service community hospital offering personalized acute care.
  • Hoboken University Hospital, A local leader in women’s health, family medicine, and outpatient services.
  • The Heights University Hospital (Jersey City), Expanding access to state-of-the-art care in the heart of Jersey City.
What You'll Be Doing

Location: 3 hospitals (Hoboken, Bayonne, Secaucus)

Hours: 3 x 12 Hours (7a-7p)

INCL: Holidays/Weekends/Call

SURGICAL (Orthopedic & Spine Surgery) Physician Assistant (PA-C)

Location: New Jersey 

Job Type: Full-Time 

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Physician Assistant to join our Hospital System. In this dynamic role, you will be integral to the entire continuum of patient care—from initial preoperative evaluations and surgical first-assisting to postoperative management and clinic rounds.

Working collaboratively with our supervising surgeons and an interdisciplinary healthcare team, you will play a critical role in ensuring optimal patient outcomes, maintaining rigorous safety standards, and delivering compassionate care to our patient community.

Key Responsibilities

  • Patient Evaluation: Conduct comprehensive patient evaluations, including thorough medical history reviews, physical examinations, and the ordering/interpreting of relevant diagnostic tests.
  • Surgical Assisting: Serve as First Assist in Orthopedic and Spine surgical procedures as directed by the surgeon, ensuring strict adherence to sterile techniques and patient safety protocols.
  • Perioperative Care: Provide complete preoperative and postoperative care, including conducting clinic visits and rounding on postoperative patients in the hospital.
  • Care Coordination: Collaborate with the surgical and interdisciplinary teams to develop, implement, and manage tailored patient care plans. Monitor patient progress, adjust treatments as necessary, and promptly address any complications or concerns.
  • Patient Education: Serve as a resource for patients and their families, educating them thoroughly on their condition, available treatment options, and essential postoperative care instructions.
  • Clinical Documentation: Accurately and comprehensively document all patient encounters, procedures, and treatment plans within the electronic medical record (EMR) system.

Schedule & Hours

  • Rotating 12-hour shifts (Monday–Saturday).
  • On-call coverage required for weekends and holidays.
  • Required to work within the Hudson county Hospital Network.
What We're Looking For

Qualifications

  • Education: Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program.
  • Licensure: Current, unrestricted license to practice as a Physician Assistant (or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) in the State of New Jersey.
  • Certification: Active certification as a Physician Assistant (PA-C).
  • Experience: Prior experience in Orthopedic and Spine surgery or a closely related surgical field is preferred, though not strictly required.
  • Core Skills: Strong clinical and critical thinking capabilities. Must possess the ability to work autonomously as well as seamlessly within a collaborative team environment.
  • Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively and empathetically interact with patients, families, and fellow healthcare professionals.
What We Offer
  • Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications: When determining the compensation, several factors may be considered including, years of relevant experience, credentials, union contracts, education, and internal equity.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K, Retirement savings plan with employer contribution
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Opportunities for professional growth, development, and continuing education
  • Employee wellness programs and resources

Influenza Vaccinations are a requirement for employment. If you are not currently vaccinated you will be required to receive the vaccination prior to hire date, during the influenza season, if you are offered employment, unless you request and receive an approved medical exemption.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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