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Surgical Tech First Assistant Jobs in California

Surgical Technologist II

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Tech Certification Program and 2 years minimum experience, upon hire and * Certified Surgical Technologist, upon hire or * Certified First Assistant - Certified Surgical Technologists, upon hire or

Surgical Tech

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$37.83 - $60.15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Technologists * Assist in preparing the operative suite for surgery by checking and gathering ... family first, and the really great institutions will provide care with warmth, compassion, and ...

Surgical Tech

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$37.83 - $60.15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Technologists * Assist in preparing the operative suite for surgery by checking and gathering ... family first, and the really great institutions will provide care with warmth, compassion, and ...

Surgical Tech

Lodi, CA · On-site

$1.5K - $1.7K/wk

Surgical Technologist (Contract) Location: California 95240 Pay: $1,549 - $1,744/week Schedule: Day ... Pass instruments, supplies, and medications to surgeons during procedures * Assist with retraction ...

Surgical Tech

Lodi, CA · On-site

$2.0K/wk

Surgical Technologist (Contract) Location: California 95240 Pay: $2000/week Schedule: Day Shift, 8 ... Pass instruments, supplies, and medications to surgeons during procedures * Assist with retraction ...

Surgical Tech

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$37.83 - $60.15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Technologists * Assist in preparing the operative suite for surgery by checking and gathering ... family first, and the really great institutions will provide care with warmth, compassion, and ...

Cardiothoracic Surgeon - First Assist

Modesto, CA · Hybrid

$600K - $850K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Central Valley Doctors Health System Physician Group invites a skilled Cardiothoracic Surgical ... technology, including an active TAVR program, ECMO capabilities, and a hybrid OR. The role ...

Surgical Tech

Saint Helena, CA · On-site

$1.5K - $1.6K/wk

Some call required (e.g., 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM coverage) Position Summary & Responsibilities * Assist ... Surgical Technologist certification (Preferred) * CNA certification (Preferred) Key Duties

Surgical Tech PRN

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$37.83 - $60.15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Technologists * Assist in preparing the operative suite for surgery by checking and gathering ... supplies, equipment, and instruments * Ensure that surgical asepsis is maintained in the handling ...

Showing results 21-40

Surgical Tech First Assistant information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$61

How much do surgical tech first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech first assistant in California is $27.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical tech first assistant?

A Surgical Tech First Assistant, also known as a Surgical First Assistant or Surgical Assistant, is a highly skilled professional who works closely with surgeons during surgical procedures. Their main responsibilities include helping to control bleeding, closing incisions, handling tissues, and providing other critical support to ensure the operation goes smoothly. They may also be involved in preoperative and postoperative care. Surgical Tech First Assistants must have advanced training beyond that of a standard surgical technologist, often including certification and hands-on clinical experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical tech first assistant?

To thrive as a Surgical Tech First Assistant, you need a solid background in surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile technique, typically supported by completion of an accredited surgical assisting program and certification (such as CSFA or CFA). Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room protocols, and electronic documentation systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure patient safety, support surgeons efficiently, and maintain smooth surgical workflows.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by surgical tech first assistants in the operating room?

Surgical Tech First Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to unexpected changes during procedures, maintaining sterile technique under pressure, and effectively anticipating the needs of the surgical team. They must also manage the demands of long surgeries and periods of standing, while ensuring clear communication with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a collaborative mindset to ensure patient safety and optimal surgical outcomes.

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

AspectSurgical Tech First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), additional trainingCertified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentAssist surgeons directly during procedures, operating roomsPrepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment, assist in setup
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical facilities, clinics

The Surgical Tech First Assistant works closely with surgeons during procedures, providing direct assistance, while Surgical Technologists prepare the operating room and support the surgical team. Both roles require certification, but the First Assistant has additional training to perform more advanced tasks during surgery.

What cities in California are hiring for Surgical Tech First Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Surgical Tech First Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Tech First Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,374 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Certified Surgical Tech - OR

Sutter CPMC Van Ness Campus

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$2.2K/wk

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Details
Client Name
Sutter CPMC Van Ness Campus
Job Type
Travel
Offering
Allied
Profession
Certified Surgical Tech
Specialty
OR
Job ID
18925864
Job Title
Certified Surgical Tech - OR
Weekly Pay
$2288.0
Shift Details
Shift
4x10 Nights
Scheduled Hours
40
Job Order Details
Start Date
09/08/2026
End Date
12/08/2026
Duration
13 Week(s)
Job Description
During an operation, surgical technologists pass the sterile instruments and supplies to surgeons and first assistants. They might hold retractors, hold internal organs in place during the procedure, or set up robotic surgical equipment. Technologists also may handle specimens taken for laboratory analysis.
Client Details
Address
1101 Van Ness Avenue
City
San Francisco
State
CA
Zip Code
94109