## Surgical First Assistant - Weekends at WVU Medicine - Berkeley Medical Center ### Role Overview WVU Medicine is seeking a dedicated and skilled Surgical First Assistant to join our team at Berkeley Medical Center (BMC) in Martinsburg, West Virginia. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work under the direct guidance and supervision of the primary operative surgeon, providing invaluable assistance in the perioperative care of patients. As a Surgical First Assistant, you will play a critical role in ensuring the smooth and successful execution of surgical procedures, contributing directly to positive patient outcomes. This weekend position offers a unique work-life balance with 12-hour shifts for three days a week. This schedule allows for extended time off during the week while still contributing significantly to our surgical team. At WVU Medicine, we value our employees and strive to create an environment that supports both professional and personal fulfillment. ### A Day in the Life of a Surgical First Assistant Each day as a Surgical First Assistant at BMC brings new challenges and opportunities to utilize your expertise. Your responsibilities will include: * **Preoperative Preparation:** Assisting in preparing the operating room, ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies are available and sterile. This includes setting up surgical instruments, positioning the patient, and preparing the surgical site. * **Intraoperative Assistance:** Working closely with the surgeon during procedures, providing retraction and manipulation of tissues and organs, maintaining hemostasis through clamping, cauterizing, and ligating, and assisting with wound closure. * **Postoperative Care:** Assisting in the placement of surgical drains and ensuring proper wound care. * **Sterile Field Maintenance:** Maintaining the integrity of the sterile field throughout the surgical procedure, adhering to strict protocols to prevent infection. * **Collaboration:** Working collaboratively with other members of the surgical team, including nurses, surgical technicians, and anesthesiologists, to ensure seamless coordination. * **Documentation:** Accurately documenting all surgical activities and patient information. Your expertise will be essential in ensuring the safety and well-being of our patients throughout the surgical process. ### Why Martinsburg, West Virginia? Martinsburg, West Virginia, offers a blend of small-town charm and easy access to urban amenities. Located in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, Martinsburg provides a lower cost of living compared to nearby metropolitan areas, making it an attractive place to live and work. The area boasts a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Appalachian Mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and other recreational activities. Martinsburg is also conveniently located near major cities like Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, providing access to a wide range of entertainment, dining, and shopping options. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to raise a family or establish a career. ### Career Path WVU Medicine is committed to providing employees with opportunities for career advancement and professional growth. As a Surgical First Assistant, you can advance your career through: * **Specialization:** Developing expertise in a specific surgical specialty, such as cardiovascular, orthopedic, or neurosurgery. * **Leadership Roles:** Taking on leadership responsibilities within the surgical team, such as mentoring new staff or serving as a charge surgical assistant. * **Continuing Education:** Pursuing advanced certifications or degrees to enhance your skills and knowledge. * **Management Opportunities:** Transitioning into management roles within the surgical department, overseeing staff and operations. WVU Medicine offers a variety of training and development programs to support your career aspirations and help you reach your full potential. ### Salary & Benefits WVU Medicine offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package to attract and retain top talent. The estimated salary range for this position is $65,000 to $95,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to a competitive salary, employees receive: * **Comprehensive Health Insurance:** Including medical, dental, and vision coverage. * **Paid Time Off:** Accruing paid time off for vacation, sick leave, and holidays. * **Retirement Savings Plan:** Participating in a retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions. * **Life Insurance and Disability Coverage:** Providing financial protection for you and your family. * **Employee Assistance Program:** Accessing confidential counseling and support services. * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Receiving financial assistance for continuing education and professional development. ### WVU Medicine Culture WVU Medicine is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for all employees. Our core values include: * **Patient-Centered Care:** Putting the needs of our patients first. * **Integrity:** Adhering to the highest ethical standards. * **Respect:** Treating all individuals with dignity and respect. * **Teamwork:** Working collaboratively to achieve common goals. * **Excellence:** Striving for excellence in all that we do. We foster a culture of continuous improvement and encourage employees to share their ideas and suggestions for enhancing patient care and improving operations. WVU Medicine is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. ### How to Apply To apply for the Surgical First Assistant position at Berkeley Medical Center, please click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page and complete the online application in full. Be sure to include your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or licenses. If you have any questions about the application process, please contact the WVU Medicine Human Resources Department. We look forward to reviewing your application and learning more about your qualifications and experience. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **Q1: What are the minimum qualifications for this position?** A1: The minimum qualifications include a CAAHEP accredited Surgical Assistant graduate, certification as a Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) by NBSTSA, certification as a Surgical Technician, BLS certification within 30 days of hire, and 3 years of experience as a Surgical Technician. **Q2: What are the preferred qualifications for this position?** A2: The preferred qualification is 5 years of experience as a Surgical Technician. **Q3: What are the working hours for this position?** A3: This is a weekend position with 12-hour shifts for three days a week, totaling 36 hours per week. **Q4: Is this position exempt or non-exempt?** A4: This is a non-exempt position. **Q5: What is the physical environment like?** A5: The physical environment is a hospital clinical setting. You will be required to stand and walk for extended periods, bend, stoop, and reach, and lift up to 50 lbs occasionally. **Q6: What skills and abilities are required for this position?** A6: The required skills and abilities include demonstrated quality outcomes, computer literacy, strong organizational skills, and effective team development skills. **Q7: Is travel required for this position?** A7: Travel between facilities may be required. **Q8: What is the dress code for this position?** A8: The dress code is professional and appropriate for a surgical environment, typically scrubs and closed-toe shoes. Specific guidelines will be provided during orientation. **Q9: Are there opportunities for professional development?** A9: Yes, WVU Medicine offers a variety of training and development programs to support your career aspirations and enhance your skills and knowledge. **Q10: How does WVU Medicine support employee well-being?** A10: WVU Medicine offers a range of wellness programs and resources to promote employee health and well-being, including an employee assistance program, health screenings, and wellness challenges.