Surgical First Assistant (CRNFA / Nurse Practitioner / Physician Assistant)

Job Title:

Surgical First Assistant (CRNFA / Nurse Practitioner / Physician Assistant)

Company:

NurseAmerica Location:

Watertown, NY Shift:

11:00 AM - 7:00

PM Salary:

$100,000 - $149,000 annually About NurseAmerica NurseAmerica is a nationally recognized provider of healthcare staffing solutions, connecting passionate healthcare professionals with top-tier clinical environments across the United States. Our mission is to support clinicians with flexible opportunities, competitive pay, and hands-on recruiter support. Whether you prefer per-diem, contract, or long-term placements, NurseAmerica is your trusted partner in building a meaningful healthcare career. Position Summary NurseAmerica is seeking a highly skilled Surgical First Assistant (SFA) to provide direct support to surgeons during operative procedures. This role is open to Certified Registered Nurse First Assistants (CRNFA), Nurse Practitioners (NP), and Physician Assistants (PA) with surgical experience. The SFA plays a critical role in ensuring safe and effective surgical outcomes by assisting in preoperative preparation, intraoperative procedures, and postoperative care.

Key Responsibilities Preoperative:

Review surgical plans and patient history Prepare and maintain a sterile surgical field Assist with patient positioning and surgical site preparation Ensure all instruments and supplies are available and sterile Collaborate with RN and surgical tech on procedural planning

Intraoperative:

Provide exposure using retractors and surgical instruments Control bleeding through clamping, ligating, and cauterizing Handle tissue, assist with suturing, and perform wound closure Perform suctioning, irrigation, and sponging as needed Assist with robotic, laparoscopic, and minimally invasive procedures Monitor patient status under direction of surgeon/anesthesia team

Postoperative:

Apply dressings and assist in patient transfer to recovery Ensure accurate instrument and sponge counts Document procedures and intraoperative findings Assist with postoperative assessments and wound care

Qualifications Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a healthcare-related field Completion of an accredited Surgical First Assistant program Licensure/Certification (one required): Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA) Physician Assistant (NCCPA certified) Nurse Practitioner (board-certified with surgical/first assist training)

Experience:

Minimum of 2 years in a surgical setting required Scrub experience preferred Skills & Competencies Strong knowledge of surgical instruments, anatomy, and aseptic technique Excellent clinical judgment and decision-making skills Strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination Ability to perform in high-pressure environments Effective communication and teamwork skills Working Conditions Exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and infectious agents Prolonged standing and use of surgical attire required On-call availability (including nights, weekends, and holidays) may be required Benefits $10,000 Sign-On Bonus 401(k) with company match Medical, dental, and vision benefits (eligible after 30 days) 24 days PTO in the first year Long-term disability and life insurance Why Work with NurseAmerica? Competitive pay Weekly pay with direct deposit Flexible scheduling Fast onboarding and dedicated recruiter support Opportunities for contract extensions and consistent assignments Referral bonus - earn up to $1,000 Apply Today Make an impact where it matters most by supporting life-saving surgical care.

Email:

hr@nurseamerica.us

Website:

www.nurseamerica.us

Pay:

$120,000.00 - $149,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Relocation assistance Retirement plan

Work Location:

In person