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

MultiCare

RN First Assistant - Per Diem

Spokane, WA · On-site

Surgical First Assistant The Surgical First Assistant is an integral part of the surgical team under the direct supervision of the surgeon. The team works together in the operating room to ensure the ...

Providence Service

RN First Assistant

Spokane, WA · On-site

This RNFA role is responsible for first assisting on surgical procedures and coordinating all ... assist the surgeon in performing a safe operation that yields optimal results for the patient.

Pacific Beach Builders

Surgery Assistant

Spokane, WA · On-site

$24.60 - $26.12/hr

Work with the team to assure that the PCLI philosophy of quality and caring treatment of patients and staff is upheld in all daily surgical activities. Assist Circulator, Scrub and Physician by ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

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$16

$38

$76

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Spokane, WA is $38.07, 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 are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant jobs in Spokane, WA?

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

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

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

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

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

Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Spokane, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 38% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 31% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,186 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

RN First Assistant - Per Diem

Spokane, WA • On-site

MultiCare
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 277 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 895 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about MultiCareexternal

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Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Surgical First Assistant

The Surgical First Assistant is an integral part of the surgical team under the direct supervision of the surgeon. The team works together in the operating room to ensure the patient receives quality care during a surgical procedure. The Surgical First Assistant works closely with the surgeon to facilitate the procedure and process of surgery.

Requirements:

  • Current Registered Nurse license in Washington State or Multistate License endorsement (MLS)
  • Bachelor's degree in Nursing, or obtained within five (5) years from the initial date of hire; RN with 15+ years of service or internal candidates hired before January 1, 2021 may be considered in satisfaction of this requirement in lieu of an education agreement
  • Advanced Degree in Nursing (MSN, PhD, DNP, ARNP) preferred
  • Five years of experience in surgical assisting
  • Training and experience in assisting in da Vinci robotic surgery
  • Current BLS Certification (required)
  • Certification as CRNFA (preferred)
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About MultiCare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

MultiCare’s roots in the Pacific Northwest go back to 1882, with the founding of Tacoma’s first hospital. Over the years, we’ve grown from a Tacoma-centric, hospital-based organization into the largest, community-based, locally governed health system in the state of Washington. Today, our comprehensive system of health includes more than 300 primary, urgent, pediatric and specialty care locations across Washington, Idaho and Oregon, as well as 12 hospitals. We welcome patients from the entire Pacific Northwest region and our 20,000-plus team members — including employees, providers and volunteers — proudly care for the communities we serve. Without a doubt, our organization has changed over the years. But what has never changed, throughout our long history, has been our dedication to the health and wellness of the people of the Pacific Northwest. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we are on a continuous journey to deliver the services that our communities need, and to ensure access to those services, now and in the future.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tacoma, WA, US

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