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Surgical First Assistant Jobs in Tyler, TX (NOW HIRING)

CHRISTUS Health

NP/PA - Vascular

Tyler, TX · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Description Vascular Surgery - PA or NP w/ First Assist Certification - CHRISTUS Health, Tyler, TX Recruiter: Richelle Howell richelle.howell@christushealth.org CHRISTUS Health is seeking a Physician ...

CHRISTUS Health

NP/PA - Vascular

Tyler, TX · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Vascular Surgery - PA or NP w/ First Assist Certification - CHRISTUS Health, Tyler, TX Recruiter: Richelle Howell richelle.howell@christushealth.org CHRISTUS Health is seeking a Physician Assistant ...

CHRISTUS Health

NP - Vascular

Tyler, TX · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Description Vascular Surgery - NP w/ First Assist Certification - CHRISTUS Health, Tyler, TX Recruiter: Richelle Howell richelle.howell@christushealth.org CHRISTUS Health is seeking a Physician ...

CHRISTUS Health

NP/PA - Vascular

Tyler, TX · On-site

Description Vascular Surgery - PA or NP w/ First Assist Certification - CHRISTUS Health, Tyler, TX Recruiter: Richelle Howell richelle.howell@christushealth.org CHRISTUS Health is seeking a Physician ...

Palm Careers

Cardiovascular Surgeon

Tyler, TX

... 1st Assist for vein harvesting available Level 1 Trauma Center serving the East Texas region On ... Surgical Fellowship Training in Cardiovascular Surgery Experienced and graduating Cardiovascular ...

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Surgical First Assistant information

See Tyler, TX salary details

$15

$35

$71

How much do surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical first assistant in Tyler, TX is $35.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.32 and $39.42 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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What cities near Tyler, TX are hiring for Surgical First Assistant jobs?

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Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant job openings in Tyler, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,799 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

NP - General Surgery job in Tyler TX

CHRISTUS Health

Tyler, TX

$102K - $132K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

CHRISTUS Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 533 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

534th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description

Vascular Surgery - PA or NP w/ First Assist Certification - CHRISTUS Health, Tyler, TX 

Recruiter:

Richelle Howell

richelle.howell@christushealth.org

CHRISTUS Health is seeking a Physician Assistant (PA) or Nurse Practitioner (NP)with First Assist certification to join our well-established and growing vascular surgery team in Tyler, Texas. You’ll be part of a collaborative and collegial group that includes four vascular surgeons and two APCs, providing a dynamic and supportive environment for both new graduates and experienced clinicians.

Primary Duties:

  • Coordinate inpatient rounding 
  • Orchestrate inpatient care plans
  • Evaluate new consults and develops initial treatment plan
  • Occasional outpatient clinic encounters

 Secondary Duties:

  • Provide surgical first assisting in the operating room
  • Assist with in-office procedures
  • After training, may include call duties for inpatient rounding and first assist with physicians

 Position Highlights:

  • Full-time schedule with a variety of cases and hands-on experience
  • Will joining an experienced advance practice clinicians to share patient care responsibilities 
  • Opportunities to practice at the top of your license after training
  • Mentorship and training for new graduates
  • Supportive, team-oriented atmosphere
  • Access to the latest technology and resources in a high-volume surgical practice
  • Physician-Led Organization: Clinicians have a seat at the table through our Physician Board of Directors..
  • Robust Multispecialty Network: Over 1,000 physicians and advanced practice providers across 41 specialties in 82 clinic locations throughout Northeast Texas.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Competitive compensation and benefits package
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Comprehensive malpractice coverage including tail
  • Generous PTO and CME allowance
  • No state income tax

 Located 90 miles east of Dallas, Tyler offers a high quality of life with affordable housing, excellent schools, and a vibrant cultural scene. The city's commitment to healthcare development provides medical professionals with opportunities to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a balanced lifestyle. You can enjoy almost year-round access to outdoor activities including lakes, golf courses, hiking/biking trails.

CHRISTUS Health is an international Catholic, faith-based, not-for-profit health system comprising almost 350 services and facilities, including more than 60 hospitals and long-term care facilities, 175 clinics and outpatient centers and dozens of other health ministries and ventures. CHRISTUS Health serves the need of underserved communities in seven (7) U.S., states, Chile, Colombia and six states in Mexico. Our vision is to Extend the Healing Ministry of Jesus Christ. A national leader in patient satisfaction, advanced technology and quality initiatives, CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System is a faith-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating healthy lives for people and communities. 

 Requirements:

Must be licensed in the state of TX or be eligible to be licensed

PA or NP with First Assist Certification

Strong interest in vascular surgery and surgical care

Team player with excellent communication and clinical skills

Will consider new graduates for this position

Work Type:

Full Time

What CHRISTUS Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About CHRISTUS Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CHRISTUS Health is a prominent name in the healthcare industry, with its headquarters situated in Irving, TX, USA. Established in 1999, the company has since been devoted to providing comprehensive care and extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. This not-for-profit health system primarily operates more than 600 healthcare services and programs, including long-term care facilities, health insurance products, community clinics, and outreach services, serving both urban and rural populations.

Industry

Outpatient health care

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1999

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