Surgical First Assistant

Surgical Technologist – First Assist

Join St. Francis–Emory Healthcare, a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St. Francis also delivers advanced heart, orthopedic, and women's care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.

Job Summary

The Surgical Technologist – First Assist functions as an integral member of the surgical team, providing advanced intraoperative assistance to the surgeon during operative procedures. In addition to performing core surgical technologist duties, this role directly assists with exposure, hemostasis, suturing, and other technical functions under the direction and supervision of the surgeon. The First Assist helps ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care throughout the perioperative process.

Essential Functions

• Prepares and maintains the sterile field, instruments, and supplies required for surgical procedures.
• Functions as a first assistant to the surgeon by providing direct intraoperative support, including:
• Assisting with tissue retraction, exposure, and visualization
• Controlling bleeding through clamping, cauterization, or other techniques
• Suturing, stapling, and closing surgical wounds as directed
• Handling and positioning tissues and organs during procedures
• Anticipates surgeon needs and ensures instruments and supplies are readily available.
• Assists with patient positioning, draping, and preparation in accordance with surgical and safety standards.
• Maintains strict adherence to sterile technique and infection prevention protocols.
• Participates in surgical counts to ensure accuracy of instruments, sponges, and sharps.
• Assists in the preparation, handling, and use of surgical equipment and technology.
• Collaborates with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and nursing staff to support optimal patient outcomes.
• Responds appropriately to intraoperative complications and emergencies.
• Ensures proper specimen handling and documentation.
• Participates in turnover and preparation of the operating room between cases.
• Maintains knowledge of surgical procedures, techniques, and equipment advancements.
• Adheres to all regulatory, accreditation, and organizational standards, including patient safety and HIPAA requirements.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Advanced knowledge of surgical anatomy, procedures, and instrumentation.
• Proficiency in aseptic technique and sterile field maintenance.
• Strong technical skills in suturing, tissue handling, and surgical assisting techniques.
• Ability to anticipate surgical team needs and respond quickly in a dynamic environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
• Knowledge of patient safety standards and infection control practices.

Qualifications

Education

• Postsecondary (Cert/Diploma/Program Grad) Graduate of an accredited surgical technology program (Required) And
• Postsecondary (Cert/Diploma/Program Grad) Completion of an accredited Surgical First Assist program based on state regulations (May be Required-Facility Specific)

Licenses/Certifications

• CST - Certified Surgical Technologist Upon Hire (Required)
• Other: Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or Certified First Assistant (CFA) based on facility or state requirements (May be Required-Facility Specific)
• BCLS - Basic Life Support Upon Hire or within facility-specified time frame (Required)

Experience

• 2+ years operating room experience as a surgical technologist (Required) And
• Prior Experience performing first assist duties in surgical procedures (Preferred)