Illinois has some of the busiest operating rooms in the Midwest. Chicago’s major hospitals run complex surgical programs in cardiac, neuro, orthopedic, and trauma surgery that all need experienced surgical first assistants. If you want high-acuity OR exposure, Illinois has it.
Junxion Med Staffing was built by a traveling surgical tech who knows the difference between agencies that care and agencies that just fill slots. Explore all our Travel Surgical First Assistant opportunities nationwide, check out travel healthcare jobs in Illinois, or keep reading for the specifics on Illinois contracts.

Why Illinois for Travel Surgical First Assistant Jobs?
Illinois is not an NLC compact state, so you will need a state-specific license. Junxion handles the application process for you, and processing times are typically manageable.
Top Facilities and Cities
- Chicago: Northwestern Memorial High-volume surgical center with complex cases
- Chicago: Rush University Medical Center Academic surgical programs across multiple specialties
- Chicago: Advocate Christ Medical Center Major trauma center with heavy surgical volume
- Springfield: HSHS St. John’s Hospital Regional surgical center with consistent SFA demand
Pay and Benefits
Travel Surgical First Assistant contracts in Illinois typically fall in a competitive range. Here is what a Junxion package includes:
- Average weekly pay: $2,200-$3,000/week depending on shift, facility, and experience
- Housing stipend: Junxion provides a competitive stipend so you find your own place. Most experienced travelers prefer this for full control. Learn about how stipends work.
- Meals and incidentals: Tax-free M&IE stipend
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Travel reimbursement and completion bonuses on select contracts
- 401(k) with contribution options
Licensing and Credentialing
Illinois requires state-specific licensing for surgical techs and SFAs. CST and CSFA credentials are standard. Junxion manages the full application.
CST and CSFA certification required. Most facilities want documented OR first-assisting experience. Junxion handles the credentialing paperwork and stays on top of deadlines so you can focus on your work. Check our compact license guide for nursing details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Travel Surgical First Assistant professionals make in Illinois?
Weekly pay for Travel Surgical First Assistant roles in Illinois ranges from $2,200-$3,000/week depending on facility, shift differential, and experience. Night and weekend shifts typically pay more. See full pay breakdown.
How quickly can I start a Illinois assignment?
Since Illinois requires a state-specific license, plan 4-8 weeks for processing. Junxion starts the application as soon as you sign so there is minimal delay.
Does Junxion handle credentialing?
Yes. Junxion manages your licensing, certifications, and facility-specific credentialing. Your recruiter coordinates everything so you are ready to start on day one.
Ready to take a Travel Surgical First Assistant assignment in Illinois? Contact Junxion and let us find the right contract for you.