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Surgical Technologist First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surgical Tech First Assist

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$28.26 - $43.81/hr

Surgical Technologist - First Assist Position Summary A Surgical Assistant, as defined by the American College of Surgeons, provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure and other intraoperative ...

Surgical Tech First Assist

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$28.26 - $43.81/hr

Surgical Technologist - First Assist Position Summary A Surgical Assistant, as defined by the American College of Surgeons, provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure and other intraoperative ...

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Surgical Technologist First Assistant information

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$721

$1.9K

$2.9K

How much do surgical technologist first assistant jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average weekly pay for surgical technologist first assistant 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surgical Technologist First Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical Technologist First Assistant, you need a thorough understanding of surgical procedures, anatomy, and aseptic technique, typically supported by specialized certification such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent. Proficiency with surgical instruments, sterile processing systems, and electronic health records is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflow, and optimal support for surgeons during complex operations.

What is a Surgical Technologist First Assistant?

A Surgical Technologist First Assistant, also known as a Surgical First Assistant or First Assistant, is a trained healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgical procedures. Their responsibilities include providing exposure, controlling bleeding, suturing incisions, and helping ensure patient safety throughout the operation. They work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other surgical team members to facilitate efficient and successful surgeries. This role typically requires additional education and certification beyond that of a standard surgical technologist.

How does a Surgical Technologist First Assistant typically collaborate with surgeons and the rest of the operating room team during procedures?

As a Surgical Technologist First Assistant, you work closely alongside the surgeon, providing direct support by anticipating their needs, handling surgical instruments, and assisting with tasks such as controlling bleeding, suturing, and tissue retraction. You also communicate effectively with circulating nurses and anesthesia providers to ensure patient safety and smooth workflow. This role requires strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, as you'll often need to adapt to changes during complex surgeries.

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

AspectSurgical Technologist First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified First Assistant (CFA), surgical assisting certificationsCertified Surgical Technologist (CST), surgical technology certification
Work EnvironmentAssist during surgeries, work closely with surgeons in operating roomsPrepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment, assist during surgeries
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

The Surgical Technologist First Assistant has advanced training to actively assist during surgeries, while the Surgical Technologist primarily prepares the operating environment. Both roles are essential in surgical teams but differ in responsibilities and certifications.

More about Surgical Technologist First Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Surgical Technologist First Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Surgical Technologist First Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Surgical Technologist First Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Surgical Technologist First Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Surgical Technologist First Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,880 per year, or $47.1 per hour.
Surgical Technologist First Assistant

Surgical Technologist First Assistant

BayCare Health System

Tampa, FL • On-site

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


BayCare Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 388 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Why BayCare? - "We dedicate our lives to caring for yours"
Our network consists of 16 community-based hospitals, a long-term acute care facility, home health services, outpatient centers and thousands of physicians. With the support of more than 30,000 team members, we promote a forward-thinking philosophy that's built on a foundation of trust, dignity, respect, responsibility, and clinical excellence. Our team members focus on tomorrow by achieving personal and professional success today. That's why you'll thrive in our forward-thinking culture, where we combine the best technology with compassionate service. We blend high-tech with high touch in ways that are advancing superior health care throughout the communities we serve. Our extraordinary team of 8522 nurses deliver clinical excellence and compassion that makes a difference in our patients lives every day. All BayCare hospitals have been awarded the Pathways to Excellence, which recognizes health care organizations for positive practice environments where nurses excel.
Position Description: Surgical Technologist First Assistant - Main OR
  • As defined by the American College of Surgeons, Surgical Assistants (SAs) are trained individuals who are able to participate in, and actively assist the surgeon in, completing the operation safely and expeditiously by helping to provide exposure, maintain homeostasis, and other technical functions

Requirements:
  • High School or Equivalent - Required
  • Basic Life Support Certification (BLS) with the American Heart Association or American Red Cross. - Required
  • Minimum of 3 years experience as a Surgical Tech OR 2-years Surgical Technologist First Assistant - Main OR experience. - Required

Specific Skills:
  • Delegation skills; Interpersonal skills; Customer service skills; Written and verbal communication skills
  • Knowledge of regulatory standards appropriate to position; Computer skills appropriate to position; Medical terminology use and understanding
  • Preceptor skills; Work with a team; Work independently
  • Organizational skills; Critical thinking skills

Benefits:
BayCare offers a competitive total reward package including benefits, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, 401k match and additional yearly contribution, yearly performance appraisals with merit increases, yearly team award bonus, community discounts and the chance to be part of an amazing team and a great place to work!
Location: St Josephs Main and Childrens
Status: PRN, Exempt: No
Shift Hours: VARIES
Weekend Work: Occasional
On Call: Yes

Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled

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