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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

LifeCenter Northwest

Surgical First Assist

Bellevue, WA

$99K - $148K/yr

The Surgical First Assist (SFA) is accountable for all activities related to the surgical recovery and safe preservation of organs from donors. SFA's wear many different 'Scrub-Hats' in the delicate ...

Medworks

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Seattle, WA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

As a Surgical First Assistant, you will play a critical role throughout the perioperative process by providing direct intraoperative assistance, maintaining sterile technique, supporting procedural ...

Medworks

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Seattle, WA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

As a Surgical First Assistant, you will play a critical role throughout the perioperative process by providing direct intraoperative assistance, maintaining sterile technique, supporting procedural ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$18

$42

$86

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Seattle, WA is $42.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.18 and $47.60 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 Seattle, WA?

For Surgical First Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,124 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Certified Surgical First Assistant

Medworks Surgical

Seattle, WA • On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

About the Role
Medworks is seeking a Certified Surgical First Assistant to support surgical procedures across hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers throughout the Seattle metropolitan area. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced surgical professional who enjoys working in a dynamic clinical environment and partnering with multiple surgeons and healthcare teams.
As a Surgical First Assistant, you will play a critical role throughout the perioperative process by providing direct intraoperative assistance, maintaining sterile technique, supporting procedural efficiency, and helping ensure the highest standards of patient safety. This position requires regular local travel between healthcare facilities and offers the opportunity to work across a variety of surgical cases while building relationships with surgeons, operating room staff, and clinical partners.
The ideal candidate is a highly skilled and adaptable professional who thrives in fast-paced surgical settings and is committed to delivering outstanding patient care.
Key Responsibilities
Pre-Operative Responsibilities
  • Prepare operating rooms with required instruments, supplies, equipment, and sterile field setup
  • Verify availability and functionality of surgical and laser equipment prior to procedures
  • Assist with patient positioning, draping, and surgical site preparation
  • Collaborate with surgeons, nursing staff, and anesthesia teams to ensure procedural readiness
  • Support compliance with facility, regulatory, and infection prevention protocols

Intra-Operative Responsibilities
  • Maintain strict sterile technique and aseptic standards throughout procedures
  • Serve as the surgeon's first assistant by providing tissue retraction, exposure, suctioning, clamping, suturing, cauterization, and other procedural assistance
  • Anticipate surgical needs and proactively support efficient case progression
  • Operate and assist with specialized surgical and laser equipment as needed
  • Monitor the sterile field and promptly address any potential concerns impacting patient safety
  • Communicate effectively with the surgical team throughout all phases of the procedure

Post-Operative Responsibilities
  • Assist with patient transfer and operating room turnover activities
  • Clean, inspect, and restock surgical equipment and supplies
  • Complete accurate documentation related to procedures, equipment usage, and inventory requirements
  • Participate in quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Ensure equipment is prepared and available for subsequent scheduled cases

Required Qualifications
  • Current certification as one of the following:
    • Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA)
    • Certified First Assistant (CFA)
    • Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)
    • Surgical Assistant-Certified (SA-C)
  • Current BLS certification or ability to obtain upon hire
  • Thorough knowledge of surgical procedures, instrumentation, anatomy, and sterile technique
  • Ability to work effectively in high-pressure surgical environments
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills
  • Professional, patient-centered approach to care
  • Ability to travel regularly throughout the Seattle area

Preferred Qualifications
  • One or more years of experience as a Surgical First Assistant
  • Experience supporting urology, gynecology, general surgery, or minimally invasive procedures
  • Experience working across multiple healthcare facilities or surgical centers
  • Familiarity with laser-assisted surgical procedures
  • Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships with surgeons and operating room staff

Schedule & Travel
  • Full-time position with a Monday through Friday case-based schedule
  • Start and end times vary based on surgical volume and procedure schedules
  • Occasional early morning starts, extended cases, and on-call responsibilities may be required
  • Frequent travel between hospitals and surgical centers throughout the Seattle area
  • Reliable personal transportation is required
  • Vehicle stipend provided

Compensation & Benefits
  • Annual salary: $100,000 - $110,000
  • Vehicle stipend
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • Professional growth and development opportunities
  • Opportunity to work alongside leading surgeons and clinical teams across the region

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and remain attentive during lengthy surgical procedures
  • Ability to lift, move, and transport surgical equipment and supplies
  • Manual dexterity required for handling surgical instruments and equipment
  • Ability to work in surgical and clinical environments with exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other healthcare-related risks
  • Ability to travel frequently between healthcare facilities

Why Join Medworks?
  • Work with diverse surgical teams across multiple healthcare facilities
  • Gain exposure to a variety of surgical specialties and procedures
  • Enjoy a high degree of autonomy while remaining part of a supportive clinical team
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package
  • Make a direct impact on patient outcomes through specialized surgical support

Equal Opportunity Employer
Medworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

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