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Assistant Surgical Tech Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologists (LCC-ST). * 3-5 years of experience as a Surgical First Assist in general surgery cases is strongly preferred. If you would like to be ...

Functions concurrently as a scrub tech. * Minimum Qualifications * Work Experience * Previous First Assistant experience preferred. * Education * Completion of a Surgical Technology Program required.

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Assistant Surgical Tech information

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$11

$23

$54

How much do assistant surgical tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant surgical tech in Kentucky is $23.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $26.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant surgical tech?

Assistant Surgical Techs, also known as surgical technologists or operating room technicians, support surgeons, nurses, and other surgical staff during operations. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and ensuring all necessary instruments are available. During surgery, they assist by passing instruments and supplies to the surgical team and help maintain a sterile environment. Their role is crucial in ensuring patient safety and smooth surgical procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant surgical tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Surgical Tech, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and anatomy, usually supported by a surgical technology certificate or diploma. Familiarity with operating room instruments, sterilization equipment, and electronic medical records systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient surgeries and strong support for surgeons and patients alike.

What are some common challenges assistant surgical techs face during surgical procedures, and how can they best prepare for them?

Assistant Surgical Techs often encounter fast-paced and high-pressure situations in the operating room, requiring them to anticipate surgeons’ needs and adapt quickly to changes. Challenges may include managing multiple tasks simultaneously, maintaining sterile technique, and effectively communicating with the surgical team. To prepare, it’s important to stay organized, continually update knowledge of surgical instruments and procedures, and practice strong teamwork and communication skills. Regularly reviewing case protocols and participating in simulation training can also help build confidence and efficiency in the role.

What is the difference between Assistant Surgical Tech vs Surgical Tech?

AspectAssistant Surgical TechSurgical Tech
CertificationsCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) or Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA)Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentAssist surgical team, prepare operating rooms, handle sterile suppliesSet up operating rooms, pass instruments, assist during surgeries
Job ResponsibilitiesSupport surgeons and nurses, handle sterile equipment, prep patientsPrepare surgical tools, maintain sterile field, assist during procedures

The main difference between an Assistant Surgical Tech and a Surgical Tech lies in their scope of responsibilities and certifications. Assistant Surgical Techs often assist more directly with patient care and may hold additional certifications, while Surgical Techs focus on preparing and passing instruments during surgeries. Both roles are essential in the operating room and work closely within the surgical team.

How long does it take to be an assistant surgical tech?

Becoming an assistant surgical tech typically requires completing a post-secondary certificate or diploma program, which usually takes about 9 months to 1 year. Some roles may also require on-the-job training or certification, such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which can be obtained after completing the program and passing an exam.

What qualifications do you need to be an assistant surgical tech?

To become an assistant surgical tech, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a surgical technology program accredited by a recognized agency, and certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential. Some employers may also require hands-on clinical experience and strong knowledge of sterile techniques and surgical instruments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky?

For Assistant Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Assistant Surgical Tech jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Assistant Surgical Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Surgical Tech job openings in Kentucky as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,612 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Certified Surgical Tech First Assistant - CVOR

Paducah, KY • On-site


Baptist Health
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

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Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Summary

Job Description:

Certified Surgical Tech First Assistant - CVOR

Full Time, First Shift

Assist surgeon in performing surgical procedures. Functions as surgeon's chief assistant in the operating room. Supervised by the department director and nurse manager.

Job Duties:

  • Assist RN with circulating duties and patient positioning and assist primary scrub with set-up and opening of sterile supplies.
  • Pass instruments.
  • May be asked to clamp, cauterize, tie and apply ligating clamps, hemostatic clips and place hemostatic agents on vessels and tissue.
  • Ensure surgical suite is disinfected and ready for the next procedure.

Requirements:

  • Technical Diploma - Completion of Surgical First Assistant Program and successful completion of certification
  • Life Support Training or Certification (ACLS, BLS, PALS, etc.)
  • Must graduate from a Surgical Technologist program or have comparable military training and completion of Surgical First Assistant Program and successful completion of certification
  • Maintains National Surgical Assistant Association Certification and national surgical technologist certification

Preferred Requirements:

  • 6-12 months' experience

Benefits:

  • Tuition Assistance reimbursement program
  • Paid Time Off available for use upon hire
  • Company paid Maternity and Paternity Leave
  • Bereavement Leave (includes pets)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Retirement plans with company match
If you would like to be part of a growing family focused on supporting clinical excellence, teamwork and innovation, we urge you to apply now! Baptist Health is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

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About Baptist Health South Florida

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 27,000 employees, 4,000 physicians and 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Miami, FL, US


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Hours and flexibility

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