Surgical First Assistant

Position Description:

Every great life-changing discovery begins the same way-with new knowledge. It can change everything, from a single life to the future of entire communities. That's why academic medicine, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge, is at the center of everything we do at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW). In the role of Surgical First Assistant you will be working in Surgery

Position Overview: Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Certified Surgical Assistant to join our dynamic Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery within the Department of Surgery. As a valuable member of our expanding Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery Programs, you will collaborate with our world-class team of 13 cardiothoracic surgeons, 20 advanced practice providers (APPs), and 14 perfusionists to provide exceptional care to patients from across Wisconsin and beyond. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing academic cardiac surgery program that prides itself on nationally ranked outcomes and innovative research.

Primary Functions:

• Collaborate closely with Froedtert Hospital operating room staff to support cardiothoracic surgeons during surgeries, demonstrating exceptional clinical skills and a collaborative work style.
• Prepare and assist in all aspects of cardiac surgery, ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes throughout the procedure.
• Demonstrate specialized knowledge and skills in cardiothoracic surgery, including retraction of tissue for optimal visualization, vein and graft harvesting, implant and graft preparation, and other procedures as directed by the surgeon and in compliance with hospital policies.
• Skillfully clamp, ligate, and cut tissue per the surgeon's directives, ensuring precision and attention to detail.
• Close all wound layers (fascia, subcutaneous, and skin) in accordance with the surgeon's specifications.
• Assist in the insertion of drainage tubes and urinary catheters, and apply wound dressings as required.
• Be prepared to provide crucial assistance during patient resuscitation in the event of cardiac arrest or other life-threatening situations in the operating room.
• Adhere strictly to sterile techniques and best surgical practices, proactively addressing any potential sterile field contamination issues.
• Participate in research studies, clinic or office activities, and contribute to educational and program material development whenever time permits.

Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery: You will be part of a clinically outstanding practice that comprises 13 cardiothoracic surgeons, 20 advanced practice providers (APPs), and 14 perfusionists, all dedicated to delivering world-class care to patients from diverse backgrounds. Our program is recognized for its comprehensive cardiac surgery care in Wisconsin, featuring nationally ranked outcomes and renowned specialists. We prioritize individualized patient care through a multidisciplinary team approach, collaborating with various medical professionals to achieve the best possible results.

Department of Surgery: As a member of the Department of Surgery, which consists of 11 divisions, including 9 clinical divisions, a Division of Education, and a Division of Research, you will have access to an academic medical center involved in groundbreaking research. The department is committed to excellence in clinical practice, surgical research, academic achievement, and surgical education. We place significant emphasis on the education and professional development of our residents and students, empowering them to become skilled caregivers of today and tomorrow.

Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin: MCW is the 3rd largest private medical school in the nation, providing a rich and diverse environment for medical professionals. As a part of our academic institution, you will have access to ample research opportunities and the chance to contribute to the Medical College of Wisconsin's reputation as a nationally recognized research institution. Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, our main teaching hospital, is the largest hospital in Wisconsin and is known for its excellence in patient care.

This is a remarkable opportunity to be part of a robust and state-of-the-art academic program with one of the most experienced cardiothoracic surgery teams in the Midwest. As a Certified Surgical Assistant within our program, you will have the chance to engage in cutting-edge research, teach medical students, residents, and fellows in our accredited programs, and receive competitive compensation and benefits.

Join us in shaping the future of cardiac surgery and advancing patient care while working in a supportive and innovative environment. If you are a dedicated and skilled Certified Surgical Assistant with a passion for cardiac surgery, we invite you to apply and become a vital part of our exceptional team.

#LI-AV1

Preferred Schedule:



Monday - Friday from 7:00 - 3:30 and once a month on call

Position Requirements:

Minimum Required Education: Associate degree

Minimum Required Experience: 0 years

Preferred Experience: 3+ Years

Certification: Current certification as a first assistant (CFA), surgical assistant (CSA), surgical technologist (CST) or assistant in surgery by one of the following:

o National Board of Surgical Technology and Assisting (NBSTSA),
o National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA),
o American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA), or
o National Assistant at Surgery Council (NASC).

Current certification in Basic Life Support at the Healthcare Professional Level.

Why MCW?

• Outstanding Healthcare Coverage, including but not limited to Health, Vision, and Dental. Along with Flexible Spending options
• 403B Retirement Package
• Competitive Vacation and Paid Holidays offered
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave
• Pet Insurance
• On campus Fitness Facility, offering onsite classes.
• Additional discounted rates on items such as: Select cell phone plans, local fitness facilities, Milwaukee recreation and entertainment etc.

For a full list of positions see: www.mcw.edu/careers

For a brief overview of our benefits see: https://www.mcw.edu/departments/human-resources/benefits

At MCW all of our endeavors, from our internal operations to our interactions with our partners, are driven by our shared organizational values: Caring - Collaborative - Curiosity - Inclusive - Integrity - Respect. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives through merit-based processes and in alignment with all applicable laws. We believe that embracing human differences is critical to realize our vision of a healthier world, and we recognize that a healthy and thriving community starts from within. Our values define who we are, what we stand for and how we conduct ourselves at MCW. If you believe in embracing individuality and working together according to these principles to improve health for all, then MCW is the place for you.

MCW as an Equal Opportunity Employer and Commitment to Non-Discrimination


The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristic, or military status. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the MCW community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.

.