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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Seneca, SC (NOW HIRING)

Clemson Eye

PRN Surgical Technician

Seneca, SC · On-site

Passes instruments, supplies, and sutures to the surgeon and assistants as needed and in such a manner so that their attention is not diverted from the operative field. * Sees that all instruments ...

Eye Health America

PRN Surgical Technician

Seneca, SC · On-site

Passes instruments, supplies, and sutures to the surgeon and assistants as needed and in such a manner so that their attention is not diverted from the operative field. * Sees that all instruments ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Seneca, SC salary details

$15

$35

$72

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Seneca, SC is $35.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $39.81 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 cities near Seneca, SC are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Seneca, SC with the most Surgical First Assistant job openings:

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Seneca, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% As Needed, 64% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,532 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Surgical Tech Full Time, Days

Prisma Health

Easley, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Prisma Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 350 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

381st of 888 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Inspire health. Serve with compassion. Be the difference.
Job Summary
Assists in care of patients of all ages before, during and after surgical procedures by performing scrub duties and related functions as a member of the surgical team on a novice to advanced beginner level completing identified job competencies. Maintains patient safety, privacy and confidentiality. Complies with legal aspects of patient care. Complies with sterilization standards and standards for handling sharps or contaminated instruments. Participates in quality improvement activities and completes hospital required education annually.
Accountabilities
  • Prepares for surgical procedures by collecting necessary supplies and instruments according to Surgeon Preference Card. - 15%
  • Prepares the Operating Room for cases by opening sterile supplies, setting up table, arranging instruments and supplies according to type of case. - 10%
  • Assists the surgical team during the operative procedure. Assists in maintaining correct count of instruments, needles and sponges. Identifies and cares for specimens. Handles drugs and solutions under direction of the RN. - 45%
  • Cleans and prepares rooms between procedures and terminally clean at the end of the day. Returns unused supplies and instruments and extra equipment to proper storage. - 10%
  • Maintains aseptic techniques; actively monitor situations which could lead to breaches in aseptic technique. Takes action to correct. - 10%
  • Completes annual age specific accountabilities. - 5%
  • Completes annual15 hours of ST continuing education between Jan 1st - Dec. 1st each year. - 5%

Supervisory/Management Responsibilities
This is a non-management job that will report to a supervisor, manager, director, or executive.
Minimum Requirements
Job related course work beyond high school - Diploma in Surgical Technology
No previous experience required.
Required Certifications/Registrations/Licenses
CST - Surgical Technologist
Certification with NBSTSA or NCCT certification accepted if ST was employed as a ST in S.C. prior to January 1, 2008 or completed a ST military training program.
In Lieu Of The Above Minimum Requirements
In lieu of the education requirement only, must be current with mandatory 15 hours annually of ST continuing education AND either have been employed as a ST in S.C. prior to Jan. 1, 2008 OR have completed a ST military training program.
Team members employed in this job prior to July 1, 2020 are grandfathered under prior educational and experience requirements. In addition, team members must be certification eligible and will have one year to obtain required certification.
Other Required Skills and Experience
Basic Computer Skills
Knowledge of office equipment (fax/copier)
Completes 15 hours of mandatory ST education annually - Required
Maintains surgical technology certification - Required
Work Shift
Day (United States of America)
Location
Baptist Easley Med Campus
Facility
1015 Baptist Easley Hospital
Department
10156160 Operating Room
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