If you’re exploring the possibility of becoming a surgical first assistant (SFA), one of your first questions is likely, “How much does a surgical first assistant make?” Understanding the surgical first assistant salary is crucial for anyone looking to enter this career path.
The salary varies based on factors such as location, experience, certification, and the facility where you work. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about surgical first assistant salary, including salary ranges, factors that affect pay, and the job outlook.
For more information on surgical first assistant travel jobs, check out our Surgical First Assistant Travel Jobs Information.
What Is a Surgical First Assistant and How Much Do They Make?
A surgical first assistant works alongside surgeons during operations, providing essential support to ensure everything runs smoothly. From preparing the patient to passing surgical instruments and helping close incisions, SFAs play a pivotal role in the operating room.
The surgical first assistant salary can vary greatly depending on several factors, including your location, level of experience, and whether you have a certification. On average, SFAs earn a comfortable salary, but those with higher experience and credentials can expect significantly higher pay.
Let’s dive into the specifics of surgical first assistant salary and what you can expect depending on where you work and your level of expertise.
How Much Does a Surgical First Assistant Make?
The average surgical first assistant salary in the United States is approximately $78,126 per year, or around $37.56 per hour. While this is the average, it’s important to note that the salary can fluctuate based on where you live and the type of employer you work for. Some states and medical centers may offer higher salaries due to the cost of living and demand for surgical first assistants.
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Surgical First Assistant Salary by State
As you might expect, the surgical first assistant salary by state can differ significantly. States with a higher cost of living generally pay more, but the difference isn’t always huge. Let’s look at how salaries compare across the country.
Surgical First Assistant Salary in Arizona
In Arizona, the surgical first assistant salary is about $72,981 per year, or approximately $35.09 per hour. While this may not be one of the highest salaries in the country, Arizona’s lower cost of living means you can stretch your paycheck further. Moreover, as healthcare demand continues to grow in Arizona, there are plenty of opportunities for surgical first assistants in hospitals and surgical centers.
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Surgical First Assistant Salary in Georgia
Georgia’s surgical first assistant salary averages around $66,128 per year. This salary is slightly below the national average, but Georgia is home to many large hospitals and medical centers, which means there are plenty of job opportunities for SFAs.
Surgical First Assistant Salary in Florida
In Florida, the surgical first assistant salary is typically around $58,525 per year, which is lower than the national average. However, Florida has a high demand for healthcare workers, especially in large medical centers in cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. Despite the lower salary, Florida offers plenty of job opportunities and a warm climate, making it an attractive destination for many.
Surgical First Assistant Salary in Texas
Texas offers a surgical first assistant salary of around $72,963 per year, which aligns closely with the national average. Texas has a booming healthcare industry, with major medical hubs in cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin. Plus, Texas’ lack of a state income tax makes it a great state to maximize your earnings and savings.
How Much Does a Surgical First Assistant Make Per Hour?
The surgical first assistant salary per hour can vary significantly depending on location, experience, and the complexity of the surgeries you’re assisting with. On average, you can expect to make $37.56 per hour, but this can range anywhere from $30 to $56 per hour depending on the region.
Here’s a quick look at the surgical first assistant salary per hour in different locations:
- Arizona: $35.09 per hour
- Georgia: $31.79 per hour
- Florida: $28.14 per hour
- Texas: $35.08 per hour
These figures provide a good overview of what you can expect to earn per hour as a surgical first assistant in various states.
Certified Surgical First Assistant Salary
Becoming a certified surgical first assistant can have a significant impact on your salary. Certification demonstrates that you have undergone rigorous training and are highly qualified to perform the role. Certified SFAs generally command higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.
The certified surgical first assistant salary typically ranges from $80,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience and location. Certification also opens doors to more specialized roles and advanced surgical procedures, leading to even more opportunities for growth and salary increases.
Surgical Tech First Assist Salary: How Does It Compare?
While surgical tech first assist salary and surgical first assistant salary are similar, they’re not identical. Surgical techs often have a more limited role in surgeries compared to SFAs, which means their earning potential is usually lower.
- Surgical tech first assist salary: Typically around $45,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on location and experience.
- Surgical first assistant salary: Typically ranges from $58,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, certifications, and location.
If you’re looking to increase your salary and take on a more advanced role, becoming a surgical first assistant is a great option.
Factors That Influence Surgical First Assistant Salary
Several key factors can impact your surgical first assistant salary:
1. Experience
As with most professions, experience plays a crucial role in salary. The more experience you have as a surgical first assistant, the higher your earning potential. Seasoned SFAs can command higher salaries, especially if they have specialized skills or work in high-demand specialties.
2. Certification
Having a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) certification can make a significant difference in your salary. Certified SFAs typically earn more than non-certified professionals because certification proves you have the skills and expertise necessary for the job.
3. Location
Your location plays a massive role in how much you can earn. High-cost-of-living states like California, New York, and Massachusetts tend to pay more, but you’ll need to weigh the higher salary against the cost of living. States like Texas and Arizona offer competitive salaries with the benefit of a lower cost of living.
4. Employer
Working for a prestigious hospital or a large medical center may lead to a higher salary. Employers that specialize in complex surgeries or have a larger patient base may offer more competitive pay to attract top talent.
Job Outlook for Surgical First Assistants
The demand for surgical first assistants is expected to grow in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of surgical technologists, which includes surgical first assistants, is projected to grow by 9% through 2030. This rate of growth is about as fast as the average for all occupations, so there will likely be plenty of opportunities in the field.
The aging population and the increase in surgical procedures will continue to drive the demand for skilled SFAs, making it a stable and rewarding career choice.
Conclusion: Ready to Pursue a Career as a Surgical First Assistant?
The surgical first assistant salary offers a competitive and rewarding career path. From surgical first assistant salary by state to certified surgical first assistant salary, you now have a better understanding of what to expect in terms of earning potential. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, the surgical first assistant role offers both financial stability and job satisfaction.
As the healthcare industry continues to grow, the demand for skilled surgical first assistants will increase, ensuring job security and opportunities for advancement. If you’re interested in joining this rewarding field, earning certification and gaining experience will help you maximize your earning potential and set you up for long-term success.
FAQs About Surgical First Assistant Salary
What is the average surgical first assistant salary?
The average surgical first assistant salary is around $78,126 per year, or approximately $37.56 per hour.
How much does a surgical first assistant make in Arizona?
In Arizona, the surgical first assistant salary averages $72,981 per year, or $35.09 per hour.
What is the certified surgical first assistant salary?
A certified surgical first assistant can earn between $80,000 and $120,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
What’s the difference between a surgical first assistant and a surgical tech first assist?
A surgical tech first assist salary is typically around $45,000 to $60,000 per year, while a surgical first assistant salary generally ranges from $58,000 to $120,000 per year.
How much does a surgical first assistant make per hour?
On average, a surgical first assistant earns about $37.56 per hour, with variations depending on location and experience. For more information on surgical first assistant travel jobs, visit Surgical First Assistant Travel Jobs Information.
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