CAREER SNAPSHOT
Summary
Surgical technicians, also called operating room technicians, assist the surgical team in the operating room during surgery.
Career Level
Similar Jobs
Consider these careers as well:
Salary
National average, per year
$46,310
JOB OPENINGS
Current national estimate
16,737
DEMAND OUTLOOK
Actual salaries can vary substantially based on region, job description and employer expectations; does not include additional compensation. Data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: May 2019
OVERVIEW
Surgical Technician Job Description
Surgical technicians (surgical techs) prepare the operating room, ensuring all surgical instruments and equipment are ready. They prepare the patient for surgery by disinfecting the incision sites and positioning the patient on the operating table. They often help the surgical team put on sterile gowns and gloves.
During an operation, surgical techs pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon and other team members. They hold retractors and internal organs in place during the procedure. They handle and prepare specimens taken for laboratory analysis.
After the operation is complete, surgical techs may apply bandages or dressings to the incision site. They also help transfer the patient to the recovery room. They sterilize equipment and restock the operating room so everything is ready for the next surgical case.
Surgical Technician Job Responsibilities
Surgical technicians may perform the following job duties. Actual duties may vary by job and location.
- Prepare operating room and set up equipment and instruments
- Assist surgical team to put on sterile gowns and gloves
- Pass surgical instruments and other supplies to the surgeon during surgery
- Maintain sterile environment
- Sterilize equipment
- Ensure there are adequate supplies for surgery/li>
- Apply dressings to surgical sites
- Help transfer patients to recovery room
- Prepare laboratory specimens
Surgical Technician Salary
The actual salary of the surgical technician can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Most recent data shown.
National average per year: $46,310*
National average per hour: $22.26*
- $49,587 per year, $23.84 per hour**
- $42,120 per year, $20.25 per hour (average)***
- $40,642 to $50,394 per year ****
- $44,550 per year, $21.42 per hour*****
* Bureau of Labor Statics
** Indeed.com
*** Payscale.com
**** Salary.com
***** Glassdoor.com
Surgical Technician Pros and Cons
What are the ups and downs of being a surgical technician? Here are a few items to keep in mind.
Pros
- Enter the workforce quickly
- Great career growth
- Good pay
- Daily work varies
- Daily work varies as each patient and surgery is different
Cons
- Daily work can be stressful
- Must stand for prolonged periods of time
- Can be physically demanding
- May have to work nights, weekends and holidays
- Potential exposure to infectious and hazardous biological materials
CAREER PATH AND TRAINING
How Do I Become a Surgical Technician?
If you are considering a career as a surgical technician, here are the steps you will need to complete.
- Obtain your high school diploma/GED
- Earn a diploma, certificate or associate’s degree from a surgical technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). A diploma or certificate program typically takes 1 year or less to complete. An associate’s degree program takes 2 years to complete.
- Become CPR/BLS certified through the American Heart Association.
- Pass an exam to obtain certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Certification is not required in all states, but is highly desirable by many employers.
Suggested Career Path
The position of the surgical technician is at the beginning of the medical career pathway, but can be preceded by other entry-level jobs. A sample career path could look like this:
Medical Assistant > Surgical Technician > Registered Nurse (RN)
Typical Minimum Education
Actual requirements may vary by state. Please check with your state government.
- High school diploma / GED
- Diploma, certificate or associate’s degree from an accredited surgical technology program
- CPR/BLS certification
Typical Work Experience Required
Typically gained through the surgical technology training program.
Typical Skills Required
Common skills listed. Actual skills required may vary by job and location.
- Physical stamina
- Understanding of medical terminology and procedures
- Attention to detail
- Familiarity with all surgical instruments and equipment
- Knowledge of sterile and aseptic technique
- Ability to follow instructions
- Ability to work as a team
- Stress-management skills
Surgical Technician Certifications
Although certification is not mandatory in all states or by all employers, it is highly recommended. These are the certifications that are available:
- TS-C, Tech in Surgery Certified (NCCT)
- CST, Certified Surgical Technologist (NBSTSA)
- CSFA, Certified Surgical First Assistant (NBSTSA)
CPR/BLS certification through the American Heart Association (AHA) is required:
- BLS, Basic Life Support for healthcare providers (AHA)
Click on the certifications to find out more.
Surgical Technician Licenses
None
Surgical Technician Training and Preparation
Once you have completed the surgical technology program, it is time to prepare for a certification exam through the NCCT or the NBSTSA. Although certification is not required in all states, it is highly recommended. Most employers prefer surgical technicians who hold certifications. Certification widens employment opportunities and shows dedication to your career and confirmation of your knowledge.
Preparing for the exams can be done in many ways. Flashcards and exam prep books are great tools to help you organize and prepare. There are a variety of choices available online or in your local bookstore. The NCCT and NBSTSA websites have study guides, practice exams and test prep information available. A little self-confidence and some strategic studying and preparation can help ensure your success.
CPR certification is required. The American Heart Association offers Basic Life Support (BLS) certification for healthcare providers. They offer online courses, blended courses and traditional classroom setting training.
@Raising Careers Inbox
Like this article? Sign up for our newsletter and we’ll send you a summary of everything new on Raising Careers once a week.