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Entry Level Surgical Tech Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Evergen (formally RTI Surgical) is a global industry-leading contract development and manufacturing ... from entry-level to highly skilled technician. New team members start with hands-on, one-on-one ...

Entry Level Surgical Tech information

See Indiana salary details

$686

$1.8K

$2.8K

How much do entry level surgical tech jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level surgical tech in Indiana is $1,791.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,336.54 and $2,196.15 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the first scrub role?

The first scrub role for a surgical tech typically involves assisting during surgeries by preparing sterile instruments and supplies, maintaining a sterile environment, and passing instruments to the surgeon. This role requires knowledge of surgical procedures, proper aseptic techniques, and often certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).

What are some common challenges faced by entry level surgical techs during their first year on the job?

Entry level surgical techs often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast-paced and high-pressure operating room environment, learning to anticipate surgeons' needs, and mastering the use of various surgical instruments and sterile techniques. It's also common to feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of maintaining a sterile field and ensuring patient safety. However, with support from experienced team members and ongoing training, new surgical techs quickly build confidence and competency in their role.

How much do surgical techs make starting off?

Entry-level surgical techs typically earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on location, healthcare facility, and certifications. Starting salaries may increase with experience, specialized skills, and additional certifications such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Surgical Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Surgical Tech, you need a solid understanding of sterile techniques, anatomy, and surgical procedures, typically supported by completion of an accredited surgical technology program and certification (such as the CST). Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room protocols, and electronic medical record systems is crucial. Attention to detail, effective teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this position. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical procedures, and smooth collaboration with surgical teams in high-stakes environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Surgical Tech vs Certified Surgical Technologist?

AspectEntry Level Surgical TechCertified Surgical Technologist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingCompletion of accredited surgical tech program; certification exam
Work EnvironmentHospitals, outpatient clinics, surgical centersHospitals, outpatient facilities, surgical centers
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions in healthcare facilitiesCertified professionals with recognized credentials
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Surgical Techs are typically new to the field, often requiring minimal formal education and on-the-job training. Certified Surgical Technologists have completed specialized training and obtained certification, which can enhance job prospects and earning potential. Both roles work in similar environments, such as hospitals and surgical centers, but certification distinguishes more experienced or qualified candidates.

How to start as a surgical tech?

To start as an entry-level surgical tech, you should complete a formal training program or obtain a certificate or associate degree in surgical technology. Certification from organizations like the National Surgical Technology Certification Program (NBSTSA) can improve job prospects, and gaining hands-on experience through clinical rotations is essential for skill development.

What Does an Entry-Level Surgical Tech Do?

As an entry-level surgical tech, you possess or are pursuing certification as a surgical technologist. Your job is to prepare operating rooms and surgical instruments for surgery. In a surgical technologist role, your responsibilities include preparing the operating room and surgical tools before procedures, monitoring patient vital signs with medical machinery, assisting surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses by arranging instruments, and handing items to the surgeon as necessary. Your duties include inspecting, maintaining, and sanitizing surgical instruments, safely disposing of waste from procedures, maintaining a clean operating room, and overseeing pre- and post-surgery patient care, such as wound dressing, transportation, and ensuring patients remain calm.

What does an entry level surgical tech do?

An entry level surgical tech, also known as a surgical technologist, assists surgeons and medical teams during surgical procedures. Their main responsibilities include preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, ensuring all necessary supplies are ready, and passing instruments to surgeons during operations. They also help with patient preparation and may assist in cleaning up after procedures. This role is crucial for maintaining a sterile environment and supporting the surgical team to ensure patient safety.

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

Entry level surgical tech positions typically require completion of a surgical technology program and certification, but some employers may hire candidates with no prior experience if they demonstrate strong technical skills and a willingness to learn. On-the-job training is often provided, especially for new graduates or those with related healthcare backgrounds.
What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical Tech jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Surgical Tech jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Entry Level Surgical Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Surgical Tech job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,139 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Tissue Processing Tech 1

Evergen

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Location: 1425 Innovation Place, West Lafayette, IN

$17.00-$19.00/hr

Annual bonus potential of $2500.00

This position follows a 9/80 schedule (44 hours one week and 36 the next week) in our West Lafayette facility, Dry Production area:

Regular Workdays: Monday–Thursday, 6:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Friday Schedule: Every other Friday off; on working Fridays, 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Breaks: One 30-minute unpaid lunch and two 15-minute paid breaks per shift

Cook Biotech is now Evergen!
This rebrand reflects our strategic evolution as a leading CDMO in regenerative medicine and comes at the end of a significant year for the business, including the successful acquisitions of Cook Biotech in IN. and Collagen Solutions, MN. Our new brand identity emphasizes our unique positioning as the only CDMO offering a comprehensive portfolio of allograft and xenograft biomaterials at scale.

About Evergen:

Evergen (formally RTI Surgical) is a global industry-leading contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) in regenerative medicine. As the only regenerative medicine company that offers a differentiated portfolio of allograft and xenograft biomaterials at scale, Evergen is headquartered in Alachua, FL, and has manufacturing facilities in West Lafayette, IN., Eden Prairie and Glencoe, MN., Neunkirchen, DE., Glasgow, UK., and Marton, NZ.

Read more about this change and Evergen’s commitment to advancing regenerative medicine here: https://lnkd.in/eMSfVJkM

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

The Tissue Processing Tech position at West Lafayette in Dry Production offers a clear, structured career path from entry-level to highly skilled technician. New team members start with hands-on, one-on-one training with a dedicated trainer, allowing plenty of time to learn, practice, and adapt before working independently.

In this role, employees will develop technical skills in their assigned areas, gain an understanding of Evergen’s rules and regulations, and build confidence in reading and following work instructions. Team members work in a supportive, collaborative environment and gradually transition to working with minimal supervision as they grow in their role.

DAY IN THE LIFE:

Team members typically arrive a few minutes early for their shift to go into the locker room and put on their required PPE — including shoe covers, hair nets, face masks, and frocks/gowns. After gowning, the team attends a morning meeting to review the daily tasks and priorities.

Once in the production area, team members:

• Set up their aseptic workstations and follow work instructions displayed on tablets
• Work with animal tissue to manufacture medical devices according to specifications
• Perform detailed, handcraft work that requires focus, precision, and adherence to written procedures
• Spend about 90% of the shift seated, working closely alongside team members in a cleanroom environment

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Performs tissue processing activities that produce the highest level of quality and yield outcomes in accordance with Work Instructions (IWs).
  • Responsible for accurately processing tissue products and meeting production schedules.
  • Works safely, dons appropriate PPE, and applies excellent aseptic techniques in a clean room / controlled environment performing individual tasks or contributing to a team effort.
  • Understands requirements to properly dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
  • Accurately completes paperwork and performs data entry in accordance with Good Documentation Practices.
  • Perform duties to support key annual performance metrics for operations
  • Propose and implement continues improvement idea.
  • Speak, listen and act honestly, positively and considerately

RECOMMENDED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • HS diploma or equivalent required
  • Proven track record of reliability, a great attitude, and desire to learn

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Move or lift heavy objects (10-50 pounds)
  • Constant stationary position (sitting)
  • Frequent (>75%) fine manipulation using hands and fingers (pinching, touching, pulling, wrapping)

ENVIRONMENT:

  • Constant wearing of personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Rigidly controlled and sterile environment; possible work near biomedical and chemical hazards

More about Evergen:

Evergen provides customers across a diverse set of market segments with leading-edge expertise, scale, and flexibility across end-to-end services including design, development, regulatory support, verification and validation, manufacturing, and supply chain management.
Evergen is rooted in a steadfast commitment to quality, integrity, and patient safety with a focus on five key values:

  • Accountable: We own our actions and decisions.
  • Agile: We embrace change to stay ahead of the curve and evolve to drive innovation and growth.
  • Growth Mindset: We embrace challenges as opportunities for continuous learning.
  • Customer-Centric: We prioritize customers at every touch point.
  • Inclusive: We thrive on the richness of our diversity and ensure every voice is heard, respected, and celebrated.

At Evergen, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where we embrace the richness of our diversity and ensure that every voice is heard, respected, and celebrated. We believe that by embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, we not only uphold our values but also strengthen our position as the CDMO of Choice in regenerative medicine solutions. We recognize that cultivating a growth mindset is essential to our success, and we are dedicated to continuous learning and improvement in our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Through accountability and action, we strive to create an environment where individuals can thrive, innovate, and contribute their unique perspectives to drive our collective success.

Montagu Private Equity (“Montagu”), a leading European private equity firm, acquired RTI in 2020 and has supported the transformation of the company to its next level of potential.

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