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

NEW Health

DENTAL ASSISTANT

Newport, WA · On-site

$21.39 - $24.95/hr

Up to three weeksof paid time off your first year plusnine paid holidays * Free Life Flight ... Knowledge in surgical and restorative dental assisting required. Physical Demands: Dental ...

All JobsSurgical First JobsSurgical First Assistant JobsSurgical First Assistant Jobs in Sandpoint, ID

Surgical First Assistant information

See Sandpoint, ID salary details

$15

$35

$71

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Sandpoint, ID is $35.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.41 and $39.57 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.
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Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Sandpoint, ID as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% As Needed, 45% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,115 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

RN or CST First Assist/Surgery Sign on Bonus Eligible

Bonner General Hospital

Sandpoint, ID • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Shift: Days and participation in call rotation
Sign on Bonus: 5K for CST with 2 years experience
                             10K for RN with 2 years OR experience
 
The RN (RNFA) or Certified Scrub First Assistant (CSFA) provides assistance in the surgical suite to aid the surgeon in performing safe surgery. Performs pre-op and post-op duties to better facilitate proper patient care.
 
The Surgical Services Department at Bonner General health is comprised of a fabulous team of highly skilled professionals performing approximately 2000 surgeries per year.  The incredible surgeons we partner with provide a wide array of surgical specialties. Our RN Circulators are an integral part of this team!

We are an amazing and fun OR crew that works hard to support one another while providing excellent patient care.  We are seeking a phenomenal addition to our team who feels that caring for our community is as meaningful as we do.  If that's you, come join our stellar patient focused team today.
 
CSFA Requirements:
 

A graduate of a CAAHEP accredited surgical technologist program and NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technician (CST) required

Graduate of an accredited Surgical First Assistant program and Certified Scrub First Assistant (CSFA) required

 5 years of experience as a scrub technician preferred

BLS (AHA) certification required

ACLS certification required within 3 months of hire; PALS certification required within 3 months of hire

RNFA Requirements:

Two years’ experience in a surgical/operating room environment 

Graduate of an accredited school of nursing 

Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in Idaho · Current Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA) and Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) certifications ·

Current BLS (AHA), ACLS and PALS certifications