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Surgical Tech First Assistant Jobs in Tyler, TX (NOW HIRING)

Certified Surgical Tech Join our team as a day shift, full-time, Certified Surgical Tech in Tyler ... Thrive in a People-First Environment and Make Healthcare Better * Thrive: We empower our team with ...

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Surgical Tech First Assistant information

See Tyler, TX salary details

$12

$25

$59

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 Tyler, TX is $25.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $28.32 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 near Tyler, TX are hiring for Surgical Tech First Assistant jobs?

Cities near Tyler, TX with the most Surgical Tech First Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Tech First Assistant job openings in Tyler, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,828 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Registered Nurse / RN First Assistant OR

Ardent Health

Tyler, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Ardent Health Services rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

495th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Surgery (OR) Registered Nurse (RN) First Assistant

Join our team as a day shift, PRN, Surgery (OR) Registered Nurse (RN) First Assistant in Tyler, TX.

Thrive in a People-First Environment and Make Healthcare Better

  • Thrive: We empower our team with career growth opportunities and resources that support your wellness, education, and financial well-being.
  • People-First: We prioritize your well-being with a supportive, inclusive culture where you are valued and cared for.
  • Make Healthcare Better: We use advanced technology to support our team and enhance patient care.

Get to Know Your Team:

  • UT Health Tyler is the flagship hospital of the system, serving hundreds of thousands annually. Specializing in advanced acute care medicine, our Midtown location boasts a Level 1 trauma center and comprehensive stroke center, the region's only EMCO program, and a Level III NICU. Our medical staff includes more than 500 physicians and a full complement of subspecialty groups.

Responsibilities

The RNFA and/or First Assist practices in collaboration with and at the direction of the surgeon during the intraoperative phase of the perioperative experience.

Qualifications

Job Requirements:

  • Associates Degree in Nursing (A.D.N.) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) from an accredited school
  • Current licensure as a Registered Nurse in the state of Texas
  • Completion of an accredited first assistant educational program
  • Minimum 2 years' operating room experience
  • Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR)
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) Certified
  • Approved Hospital Credentialling

Preferred Job Requirements:

  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certified

What Ardent Health Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Ardent Health Services logo

About Ardent Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With 30 hospitals and hundreds of clinics, Ardent Health Services is a premier provider of health care services, delivered with compassion for patients and their families and with respect for employees, physicians and other health professionals. Nearly half of our facilities have been recognized among healthcare's best places to work.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Nashville, TN, US

Year founded

1993

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