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Surgical Tech First Assistant Jobs in Mississippi

Forrest General Hospital

SURGICAL TECH

Hattiesburg, MS · On-site

The Surgical Technologist position requires proficient knowledge and skills necessary to carry out ... Ensures all instruments are sprayed with enzymatic before leaving the Operating Room * Assist in ...

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Surgical Tech First Assistant information

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$12

$26

$59

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech first assistant in Mississippi is $26.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $28.46 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 Mississippi are hiring for Surgical Tech First Assistant jobs?

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

Surgical Tech First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical Tech First Assistant job openings in Mississippi as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, and 39% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,098 per year, or $26 per hour.

SURGICAL TECHNOLOGIST - FIRST ASSIST REQUIRED

Mississippi Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center

Flowood, MS • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Surgical Technologist – First Assist

The Surgical Technologist – First Assist is responsible for providing intraoperative technical support to the surgeon while maintaining a safe and sterile environment throughout all surgical procedures.

Responsibilities include:

  • Setting up the instruments and equipment required for each procedure
  • Sterilizing equipment and managing surgical inventory to ensure adequate supplies
  • Preparing the patient for surgery according to established protocols
  • Passing instruments and sterile supplies to the surgeon throughout the operation
  • Providing direct first assist support during surgical procedures, including retraction, exposure, hemostasis, suturing, and other tasks as delegated by the surgeon
  • Anticipating the needs of the surgeon to ensure efficient surgical flow
  • Taking a count of all surgical instruments and supplies prior to the operation
  • Recounting surgical instruments and supplies at the end of the operation
  • Maintaining an overall sterile environment throughout the surgery
  • Assisting with patient positioning, draping, and wound closure as directed

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program required
  • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) required
  • Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or documented First Assist experience required
  • Orthopaedic surgical experience preferred
  • Current BLS certification required

Team Player: Works well as a member of a group

Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well

Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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