Surgical First Assistant Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Surgical First Assistants qualify for H-1B visa and other work visas as healthcare professionals requiring specialized training and certification. Most positions require an associate's or bachelor's degree in surgical technology, plus additional first assistant certification. Hospitals and surgical centers regularly sponsor visas for experienced candidates. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsJob Title: Surgical First Assistant/UKHC
Requisition Number: RE54774
Working Title: Certified First Assistant
Department Name: H6300:Perioperative Services
Work Location: Lexington, KY
Grade Level: 12
Salary Range: $30.00-53.67/hour
Type of Position: Staff
Position Time Status: Full-Time
Required Education
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) certificate or High School Diploma
Required Related Experience
1 yr
Required License/Registration/Certification
Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) certified by the KY Medical Board of Licensure or eligible, or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) certified by the KY Medical Board of Licensure or eligible
Physical Requirements
The essential functions for include the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull 50-100 pounds on a daily basis; as well as stand, walk and sit for long periods of time. The conditions of work may involve exposure to communicable diseases, the hazards of radiation, and injury from intractable patients or sharp instruments.
Shift
This position is 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Job Summary
The CFA (Certified First Assistant) means providing aid under direct supervision, in exposure, hemostasis, closure and other intraoperative technical functions that assist a physician performing a safe operation with optimal results for the patients. Primary responsibilities are assisting in robotic procedures with other assisting and scrubbing duties as assigned. Teamwork with case facilitation are key responsibilities as well.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Previous experience in an OR setting; surgical technician experience highly preferred for this position.
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No
Preferred Education/Experience
CAAHEP accredited program certificate or Associate’s Degree – Surgical Assistant program
Deadline to Apply: 06/17/2026
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.
Job Title: Surgical First Assistant/UKHC
Requisition Number: RE54774
Working Title: Certified First Assistant
Department Name: H6300:Perioperative Services
Work Location: Lexington, KY
Grade Level: 12
Salary Range: $30.00-53.67/hour
Type of Position: Staff
Position Time Status: Full-Time
Required Education
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) certificate or High School Diploma
Required Related Experience
1 yr
Required License/Registration/Certification
Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) certified by the KY Medical Board of Licensure or eligible, or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) certified by the KY Medical Board of Licensure or eligible
Physical Requirements
The essential functions for include the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull 50-100 pounds on a daily basis; as well as stand, walk and sit for long periods of time. The conditions of work may involve exposure to communicable diseases, the hazards of radiation, and injury from intractable patients or sharp instruments.
Shift
This position is 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Job Summary
The CFA (Certified First Assistant) means providing aid under direct supervision, in exposure, hemostasis, closure and other intraoperative technical functions that assist a physician performing a safe operation with optimal results for the patients. Primary responsibilities are assisting in robotic procedures with other assisting and scrubbing duties as assigned. Teamwork with case facilitation are key responsibilities as well.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Previous experience in an OR setting; surgical technician experience highly preferred for this position.
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No
Preferred Education/Experience
CAAHEP accredited program certificate or Associate’s Degree – Surgical Assistant program
Deadline to Apply: 06/17/2026
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Surgical First Assistant
Target teaching hospitals and major medical centers
Academic medical centers and large hospital systems have established visa sponsorship processes and regularly hire international healthcare professionals for specialized surgical roles.
Emphasize your specialized surgical certification
First assistant certification from NBSTSA or equivalent demonstrates the specialized knowledge required for H-1B eligibility beyond basic surgical technology training.
Consider rural and underserved areas
Hospitals in rural areas or medically underserved regions often struggle to fill surgical positions and may be more willing to sponsor visas.
Network through surgical professional associations
Organizations like AST and AORN host conferences where you can connect with hiring managers from hospitals that understand visa sponsorship processes.
Highlight experience with complex surgical procedures
Document your experience assisting in cardiac, orthopedic, or neurosurgical procedures to demonstrate the specialized skills that justify H-1B sponsorship requirements.
Apply during peak hiring seasons
Hospital staffing cycles typically align with academic calendars. Apply in spring for summer positions or fall for positions starting after residency graduations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Surgical First Assistants qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, Surgical First Assistants typically qualify for H-1B visas as the role requires specialized knowledge in surgical procedures and patient care. You need either an associate's degree in surgical technology plus first assistant certification, or a bachelor's degree in a related field. The position must require this specialized education to meet H-1B requirements.
How to find Surgical First Assistant jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Surgical First Assistant jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting healthcare professionals with sponsoring employers. Focus your search on major hospitals, surgical centers, and healthcare systems that commonly sponsor H-1B, EB-2, or EB-3 visas for medical support roles. These employers often need skilled surgical assistants and are experienced with the visa sponsorship process.
What degree do I need for visa sponsorship as a Surgical First Assistant?
Most positions require an associate's degree in surgical technology plus completion of an accredited surgical first assistant program. Some employers prefer a bachelor's degree in surgical technology, healthcare, or related field. Additional certifications like CSA (Certified Surgical Assistant) or CSFA (Certified Surgical First Assistant) strengthen your sponsorship case by demonstrating specialized knowledge.
Which types of healthcare facilities sponsor visas for Surgical First Assistants?
Large hospital systems, academic medical centers, and specialty surgical centers most commonly sponsor H-1B visas for first assistants. Teaching hospitals affiliated with medical schools have established immigration processes and regularly hire international candidates. Private surgical centers focusing on cardiac, orthopedic, or neurosurgical procedures also sponsor visas for experienced first assistants.
How does state licensing affect visa sponsorship for Surgical First Assistants?
State licensing requirements vary significantly for first assistants, which can impact visa sponsorship. Some states require separate licensing while others allow practice under physician supervision. Employers typically handle licensing requirements as part of the hiring process, but you should research target states' requirements before applying. Licensed states may actually prefer visa sponsorship since it demonstrates commitment to the role.
What's the approval rate for H-1B petitions for Surgical First Assistants?
Healthcare professional H-1B petitions, including surgical first assistants, generally have higher approval rates than other fields due to clear specialty occupation requirements. The role's combination of formal education requirements, professional certification, and specialized surgical knowledge aligns well with H-1B criteria. However, the petition must demonstrate that the specific position requires the specialized training and cannot be performed by someone without your qualifications.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Surgical First Assistant jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.