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Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ZEISS

Surgical Instrument Technician

Chesterfield, MO · On-site

The Surgical Instrument Finishing Technician is responsible for performing precision finishing and preparation work on surgical instruments to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.

Carteret Health Care

Surgical Tech

Morehead City, NC · On-site

Supervises Surgical Instrument Technician and OR Attendants. Responsible to Registered Nurse (circulator) and Director of Surgical Services. * DEFINITION OF POSITION * The Surgical Technologist is a ...

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Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technician information

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How much do entry level surgical instrument technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level surgical instrument technician in the United States is $20.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is surgical tech harder than RN?

Surgical technologists and registered nurses (RNs) have different roles; surgical techs focus on preparing and handling surgical instruments, while RNs provide broader patient care and have more extensive training. Generally, becoming an RN requires completing a nursing degree and passing licensing exams, which can involve more education and responsibility than the training for surgical techs. The difficulty depends on individual skills and interests, but RNs typically have a more comprehensive scope of practice and higher educational requirements.

What is the difference between Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technician vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectEntry Level Surgical Instrument TechnicianSurgical Technologist
CertificationsTypically requires certification such as CBET or CSTRequires certification like CST (Certified Surgical Technologist)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgery centers, clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesCleaning, sterilizing, and preparing surgical instrumentsAssisting in surgical procedures, preparing operating rooms

Both roles involve working in surgical settings and require certification, but Surgical Technologists often have broader responsibilities during surgeries. Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technicians focus more on instrument preparation and sterilization, serving as a vital support role in surgical teams.

Can you get hired as a surgical tech with no experience?

Entry level surgical instrument technicians can sometimes be hired without prior experience if they have relevant training, such as a surgical technology program or certification. Employers often provide on-the-job training to develop skills in instrument sterilization, handling, and maintenance. Certification from organizations like the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) can improve job prospects for beginners.

Which pays more, CNA or surgical tech?

Surgical technologists generally earn higher wages than CNAs because they require more specialized training and certification, and work in more complex surgical environments. CNAs typically have lower starting salaries and less advanced training but are essential in patient care settings. Salary differences can vary by location and experience, but on average, surgical techs tend to earn more than CNAs.

What is the lowest salary for a surgical technologist?

The lowest salary for a surgical technologist typically starts around $30,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and certification. Entry-level positions may offer lower wages, but with experience and additional skills, salaries can increase significantly.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technician jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technician job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical Instrument Technician jobs? The most popular types of Surgical Instrument Technician jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technician jobs include:
Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Surgical Instrument Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,763 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Surgical Instrument Technician

WOLFE EYE CLINIC MASTER

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Surgical Instrument Technician At Wolfe Eye Clinic, we create Better Vision for a Better Life.
We have an immediate opening for a full-time Surgical Instrument Technician at our surgery center located in West Des Moines.
The Surgical Instrument Technician will assist the surgical team by sterilizing and preparing instruments for surgical procedures. Prior experience in sterile processing is required.
Responsibilities include:
  • Decontaminating instruments.
  • Sterile processing.
  • Instrument care and handling.
  • Inspecting instruments and equipment to determine the need for repair or replacement.
  • Organizing trays and instruments by surgical procedure.
  • Documenting and record keeping of critical information
  • Maintaining proper inventory levels to ensure instrument availability.
  • Performing other duties as assigned.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate critical thinking skills, judge situations scientifically, and portray professionalism in the anticipation and planning for the care of our patients.
Ideal candidates will have the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with a positive can-do attitude.
CRCST certification is desired but not required.
We offer excellent pay and an opportunity to join a great team. If you are interested in being part of a quality drive organization, while receiving a competitive wage and excellent benefits (health, dental, 401K, paid time off, etc.) please apply.
EOE
CRCST or previous experience in the field required

Apply