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Surgical Tech First Assist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

EducationCurrent Michigan RN license, BSN preferredRegistered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) and/or Certified Surgical Tech First Assist (CSTFA)Must currently be RNFA certified or obtain your RNFA ...

CSFA: Cert Surgical First Assistant Equivalent Experience: Certification is conferred by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), and the National Surgical Assistant ...

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Surgical Tech First Assist information

See Michigan salary details

$628

$1.6K

$2.5K

How much do surgical tech first assist jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average weekly pay for surgical tech first assist in Michigan is $1,640.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,223.08 and $2,011.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical tech first assist?

Surgical Tech First Assists, also known as Surgical First Assistants or First Assists, are allied health professionals who work closely with surgeons during operations. They provide direct support in the operating room by helping with tasks such as controlling bleeding, suturing incisions, and ensuring a sterile environment. Their advanced skills and specialized training enable them to anticipate the needs of the surgical team and contribute to optimal patient outcomes. In addition to assisting during surgery, they may also help with preoperative and postoperative care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical tech first assist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical Tech First Assist, you need knowledge of surgical procedures, aseptic technique, anatomy, and a certification such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA). Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room technology, and patient monitoring systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and successful outcomes during operations.

What is the difference between Surgical Tech First Assist vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgical Tech First AssistSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), additional trainingCertified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentAssists during surgeries, works closely with surgeonsPrepares operating rooms, sterilizes equipment, assists in surgeries
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

The Surgical Tech First Assist and Surgical Technologist roles both work in surgical settings, but the First Assist has advanced training to actively assist during procedures, while the Technologist primarily prepares the operating room and supports the surgical team. The First Assist typically holds additional certifications and works more directly with surgeons during surgeries.

How does a surgical tech first assist typically collaborate with surgeons and the rest of the operating room team during procedures?

As a Surgical Tech First Assist, you will work closely with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists to ensure each procedure runs smoothly. Your primary responsibilities include assisting the surgeon directly by providing exposure, controlling bleeding, and suturing wounds, as well as anticipating the needs of the surgical team. Effective communication and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential, as you will often need to respond quickly to changing circumstances in the operating room. This collaborative environment not only enhances patient outcomes but also provides valuable learning experiences and professional growth opportunities.
What are popular job titles related to Surgical Tech First Assist jobs in Michigan? For Surgical Tech First Assist jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Surgical Tech First Assist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,311 per year, or $41 per hour.

Certified Surgical Tech First Assist

Trice Healthcare

Marshall, MI • On-site

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Certified Surgical Tech First Assist (CSTA)

The Certified Surgical Tech First Assist is responsible for providing peri-operative care to surgical patients under the direction of a Registered Nurse. This role ensures the appropriate preparation of the physical environment before patient arrival, assists the RN in developing a plan of care, and follows established procedures to maintain patient and employee safety.

Requirements:

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Certified Surgical Tech First Assist (CSTA) is required.
  • Strong experience with Davinci and Orthopedic procedures is required.
  • Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required (not needed at the time of submission).
  • Certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is required.
  • Prior experience with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) is preferred.