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UPMC Altoona

Surgical Tech First Assist

Altoona, PA

Surgical Tech First Assist Full-time, Day shift with call, 6:45 AM - 3:15 PM or until cardiac/vascular cases are completed. This position will be working mainly in cardiac and vascular service lines ...

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average weekly pay for surgical tech first assist in the United States is $1,882.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,403.85 and $2,307.69 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Surgical Tech First Assists?

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 cities are hiring for Surgical Tech First Assist jobs? Cities with the most Surgical Tech First Assist job openings:
What states have the most Surgical Tech First Assist jobs? States with the most job openings for Surgical Tech First Assist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Surgical Tech First Assist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical Tech First Assist jobs are:
Surgical Tech First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical Tech First Assist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,880 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Surgical Tech First Assist

UPMC Senior Communities

Altoona, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Surgical Tech First Assist
Full-time, Day shift with call, 6:45 AM - 3:15 PM or until cardiac/vascular cases are completed. This position will be working mainly in cardiac and vascular service lines, however, may work in the main OR if no cardiac or vascular cases are scheduled.
AFSCME - Union
Posted: October 17, 2024
Exciting Opportunity: Sign-On Bonus for Surgical Technologists!
We are offering a sign-on bonus for full-time Surgical Technologist positions. Don't miss out - apply today!
Commit to 3 years and receive $30,000.
Purpose:
The Certified Surgical First Assistant provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. In addition to intraoperative duties, the Certified Surgical First Assistant also performs preoperative and postoperative duties to better facilitate proper patient care. The Certified Surgical First Assistant performs these functions during the operation under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. Responsible for performing various procedures or may specialize in a surgical specialty where appropriate. Performs responsibilities of a Surgical Technologist as needed or required.
Responsibilities:
  • Prepare patients for surgery by wash, shave, and ensure aseptic incision sites. May transport patients to the operating room, help position them on the operating table, and cover them with sterile surgical drapes.
  • Demonstrate excellent communication skills and collaborate with the surgeons, specialty team members, and other departments. Serve as a resource for staff and other disciplines. Identifies process improvement opportunities and assists in implementation.
  • 3. Utilizing appropriate techniques to assist with hemostasis A . Permanent(1) Clamping and/or cauterizing vessels or tissue(2) Tying and/or ligating clamped vessels or tissue (3) Applying hemostatic clips (4) Placing local hemostatic agents
  • Assume responsibility under the direction of the Clinician for all repairs, ordering, and maintenance of supplies, equipment, lasers, and instrumentation related to the specialty service. Assist the Clinician in supervising the use of supplies and equipment for patient care and safety in all procedures.
  • Competencies will include the following:(1) Fracture tables (2) Head stabilizers (3) Body stabilizers (4) C-arm extensions (5) Any other equipment needed. G. Upon completion of the procedure, the patient shall be evaluated for any possible damage from positioning which will include assessment of the skin. The abnormal condition shall be reported to the surgeon and treatment and documentation shall be carried out.
  • Support cost containment in the use of materials and equipment.
  • 2. Providing visualization of the operative site by the following: A. Appropriate placement and securing of retractors with or without padding. B. Packing with sponges C. Digital manipulation of tissue D. Suctioning, irrigating, or sponging. E. Manipulation of suture materials (e.g., loops, tags, running sutures)F. Proper use of body mechanics to prevent obstruction of the surgeon's view
  • 1. Positioning the patient. A. The surgeon shall convey the exact position that will give the best exposure for the surgical procedure. The surgical assistant will carry out this order. Consideration will be given to the patient's comfort and safety. B. Points of pressure shall be padded: elbows, heels, knees, eyes, face, and axillary region. C. Circulation shall not be impaired. (A tourniquet may be required for some procedures.)D. Nerve damage shall be guarded against. E. The temperature of the patient should be discussed with the anesthesia personnel and methods employed to maintain the desired temperature range. F. The surgical assistant shall be familiar with common positions related to the surgical procedure and will be able to use the equipment necessary to provide the position.
  • Close all wound layers (fascia, subcutaneous, and skin) as per the surgeon's directive. Be familiar with different sutures and suturing techniques to provide the desired outcome.
  • Demonstrate initiative in problem-solving as related to patient and technical issues that contribute to the improvement of the Operating Room function and operation.
  • A. Utilizing running or interrupted sutures with absorbable or nonabsorbable material of wound layers, including muscle and fascia. B. Utilizing subcuticular closure technique with or without adhesive skin closure strips C. Closing skin with method per surgeon's directive (suture, staples, etc. D. Postoperative subcutaneous injection of local anesthetic per surgeon's directive
  • B. Temporary(1) Applying tourniquets and demonstrating awareness of the indications/contraindications for use with knowledge of side effects of extended use(2) Applying vessel loops(3) Applying noncrushing clamps(4) Applying direct digital pressure4. Participating in volume replacement or autotransfusion techniques as appropriate5. Utilizing appropriate techniques to assist with closure of body planes
  • 6. Selecting and applying appropriate wound dressings, including the following:A. Liquid or spray occlusive materialsB. Absorbent material affixed with tape or circumferential wrapping.C. Immobilizing dressing (soft or rigid)7. Providing assistance in securing drainage systems to tissue

Qualifications:
Completion of a formal surgical technician program offered by a community or junior college, vocational school, university, hospital, or the military. Graduate of an accredited Surgical First Assist Program. Current certification as a Certified First Assist (CFA) through the National Board of Surgical Technologists and Surgical Assistants. Three years of current Operating Room experience is preferred. Advanced knowledge of at least two surgical specialties with one year of experience in the selected specialty desired. Requires full range of motion, manual and finger dexterity, and eye-hand coordination. Advanced knowledge and skill in major operative surgical specialties performed. Advanced knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and potential complications for procedures performed. Advanced knowledge and skill in aseptic surgical techniques used in the preparation of materials, supplies, and equipment for various surgical procedures and suturing. Ability to anticipate and recognize physician's needs and changes that require unplanned or unanticipated interventions and respond appropriately.
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
Cert Surgical Technician Cert First Assist through NBSTSA or ABSA to be obtained within one year of hire/transfer date. Basic Life Support (BLS) for healthcare providers
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
  • Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) OR Tech in Surgery-Certified (TSC)
  • Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting with renewal
  • Act 33 with renewal
  • Act 34 with renewal
  • Act 73 FBI Clearance with Renewal

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