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Surgical Tech First Assist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valley Baptist - Brownsville

The surgical technologist first assistant may also perform preoperative and postoperative duties to facilitate patient care. Responsible for ensuring appropriate equipment is available; reviewing ...

Vitruvian Health

Surgical Tech First Assist

Dalton, GA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY Performs scrub tech/First Assistant duties for surgical cases and assists registered nurse and surgeon in caring for the surgical patient.. Must be able to demonstrate knowledge and ...

Netpace

Certified Surg Tech - First Assist

Austin, TX · On-site

Certified Surg Tech Specialty: First Assist Job Type: Permanent Minimum Guaranteed Hours: 36 JOB SUMMARY The Surgical Tech First Assistant works in a dual role as a Certified Surgical Technologist ...

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Surgical Tech First Assist information

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

As of Jul 13, 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.

How much does a surgical 1st assistant make?

Surgical first assistants typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and healthcare setting. They often require certification and work closely with surgeons in operating rooms, performing tasks such as tissue manipulation and suturing.

Are surgical first assistants in demand?

Surgical first assistants are in high demand due to the increasing volume of surgeries and the need for specialized support during procedures. They typically require certification and work closely with surgeons in operating rooms, making their skills valuable in many healthcare settings.

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.

Where do surgical first assistants make the most money?

Surgical first assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for specialized surgical support, such as urban areas with large hospitals and medical centers. States or cities with a higher volume of complex surgeries and advanced healthcare facilities typically offer higher compensation for this role. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized surgical environments also influence earning potential.

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.

Can a surgical tech be a first assist?

A surgical tech can become a first assist by obtaining additional training, certification, and experience in surgical procedures. Certified Surgical Technologists First Assist (CSTFA) credentials are often required, and the role involves directly assisting surgeons during operations, requiring knowledge of anatomy, sterile techniques, and surgical instruments.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,880 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Surgical Tech First Assistant

Valley Baptist - Brownsville

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

This position may qualify for a sign-on bonus.
Full Time, Days
The surgical technologist first assistant, under the direction and supervision of the surgeon, provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that are within validated skills received during approved, first assistant training course as well as those approved by applicable regulatory agencies, e.g. state and/or federal. The surgical technologist first assistant may also perform preoperative and postoperative duties to facilitate patient care.
Responsible for ensuring appropriate equipment is available; reviewing permit to confirm procedure; assist in moving and positioning patient; providing assistance throughout the procedure in a variety of surgical techniques.
Education:
Required: Graduate of a CAAHEP accredited program.
Preferred: Associate degree.
Experience:
Required: 3 years scrub and/or assisting experience.
Preferred: 5 years as surgical technician.
Certifications:
Required: AHA BLS, Surgical Technology certification, Surgical First Assistant certification, currently licensed, certified, or registered to practice profession as required by law, regulation in state of practice or policy.
#LI-SC1
Embark on a rewarding career with Valley Baptist - Brownsville hospital. If you are a compassionate healthcare professional eager to contribute to patient care, this is your opportunity where your skills make a difference every day. Join us in delivering exceptional healthcare with a personal touch.
At Valley Baptist - Brownsville, we understand that our greatest asset is our dedicated team of professionals. That's why we offer more than a job - we provide a comprehensive benefit package that prioritizes your health, professional development, and work-life balance. The available plans and programs include:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match
  • Generous paid time off
  • Career development and continuing education opportunities
  • Health savings accounts, healthcare & dependent flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance program, Employee discount program
  • Voluntary benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance, long term care, elder & childcare, auto & home insurance

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location and is determined by employment status
We help people achieve health for life through compassionate service inspired by faith.Since the early 1920s, Valley Baptist Medical Center hospitals have been involved in the community, caring for the health and spiritual needs of people in the Rio Grande Valley. We are dedicated to continuing our strong tradition of providing quality, compassionate healthcare that puts people first. Our mission is to serve, heal and educate with concern for the whole patient, an understanding of the economic environment and a relentless commitment to quality. Join our team!

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