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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

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Surgical First Assistant information

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$16

$38

$77

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Rochester, MN is $38.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.53 and $42.50 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 fields 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 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 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.

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.

Is a surgical first assistant a good career?

A surgical first assistant is a skilled healthcare professional who supports surgeons during operations, requiring certification and knowledge of surgical procedures. It offers a stable job outlook with opportunities for specialization and advancement, often involving working in hospitals or surgical centers. The role demands strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments.

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.

More about Surgical First Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN? For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:
Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,607 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) - Operating Room

Olmsted Medical Center-MAIN

Rochester, MN

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

0.8 FTE - Day Shifts $5,000.00 Sign on Bonus with work commitment

Starting wage - $37.14 - $55.71 (based on experience)

Offers for external candidates are generally made between the minimum and midpoint of the range, based on experience.

Qualifications:

  • Graduate of a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Program (CAAHEP) Surgical First Assistant program
  • Current certification as a Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) or Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)
  • Operating Room experience or training within the last three years preferred
  • Knowledge of the principles of aseptic technique and perioperative policies and procedural guidelines
  • BLS certified within 90 days of hire

Job Responsibilities:

  • Provides visualization of the operative site.
  • Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist with hemostasis.
  • Utilizes appropriate techniques in closure of body planes.
  • Selects and applies appropriate wound dressings.
  • Provides assistance in securing drainage system to tissue.
  • Participates in volume replacement or auto transfusion techniques as appropriate.
  • Assists with positioning the patient.
  • Prepares the skin for procedure.
  • Anticipates the needs of the surgeon.
  • Maintains confidentiality.
  • Maintains ongoing self-development.
  • Other duties as assigned.