Surgical First Assistant (RFNA) — Perioperative Specialist

UC Irvine; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

UCI Health in Irvine is seeking an RN First Assistant (RFNA) to work with surgeons across perioperative care, performing advanced assistance under the surgeon’s direction and managing patient care before, during, and after operations.

The RFNA will follow standardized procedures, coordinate with anesthesia and OR staff, and maintain clinical competency, with required RNFA certification and California licensure.

Qualifications

• Successful completion of an RNFA program that meets the AORN standards for RN first assistant education programs and ongoing certification.
• Strong ability to read, write, and verbally communicate effectively in English.
• Must complete the da Vinci system training before assisting with robotic surgery.
• Minimum two (2) years diversified clinical experience as a perioperative RN.
• Minimum one (1) year experience as an RFNA.
• Knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and operative techniques.
• Ability to work effectively in a high‑stress, fast‑paced environment.
• Current unrestricted RN license in California.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
• Ability to work variable shifts including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive perioperative nursing care and management.
• Perform intraoperative RNFA techniques under surgeon direction.
• Oversee preoperative assessment and postoperative patient management.
• Coordinate care between the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and room staff.
• Maintain adherence to standards and privileges; not acting as circulating or scrub nurse while RNFA.
• Maintain competency and participate in ongoing credentialing and training.

Skills

RNFA program

English communication

Standardized Procedures

Da Vinci training

Perioperative nursing

Critical thinking

Customer service

Organization

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Tools

Da Vinci Robotic System

Job description

UCI Health in Irvine is seeking an RN First Assistant (RFNA) to work with surgeons across perioperative care, performing advanced assistance under the surgeon’s direction and managing patient care before, during, and after operations.

The RFNA will follow standardized procedures, coordinate with anesthesia and OR staff, and maintain clinical competency, with required RNFA certification and California licensure.