... surgical technician courses, nursing assistant or other courses related to the position; or an ... GS-5 (Entry Level): * Experience or Education . None beyond the basic requirements. GS-6 (Full ...
New
... surgical technician courses, nursing assistant or other courses related to the position; or an ... GS-5 (Entry Level): * Experience or Education . None beyond the basic requirements. GS-6 (Full ...
New
Entry Level Surgical Tech information
See Kentucky salary details
$626.35 - $797.92
9% of jobs
$797.92 - $969.50
7% of jobs
$969.50 - $1.1K
6% of jobs
$1.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$1.1K - $1.3K
6% of jobs
$1.3K - $1.5K
9% of jobs
The median wage is $1.7K / yr.
$1.5K - $1.7K
13% of jobs
$1.7K - $1.8K
14% of jobs
$2K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$1.8K - $2K
15% of jobs
$2K - $2.2K
12% of jobs
$2.2K - $2.3K
5% of jobs
$2.3K - $2.5K
4% of jobs
$626
$1.6K
$2.5K
How much do entry level surgical tech jobs pay per week?
As of Aug 14, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level surgical tech in Kentucky is $1,634.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,219.23 and $2,003.85 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.
How much does an entry level surgical tech make?
An entry-level surgical tech typically earns between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location, healthcare facility, and certifications. Starting salaries may be lower in some regions but generally increase with experience and additional skills such as sterile technique and equipment handling.
How hard is it to get hired as an entry level surgical tech?
Getting hired as an entry-level surgical tech can be competitive, but having a certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and completing a formal training program can improve job prospects. Employers often look for relevant skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
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.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level surgical tech?
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?
| Aspect | Entry Level Surgical Tech | Certified Surgical Technologist |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training | Completion of accredited surgical tech program; certification exam |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, outpatient clinics, surgical centers | Hospitals, outpatient facilities, surgical centers |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Entry-level positions in healthcare facilities | Certified professionals with recognized credentials |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Yes | Yes |
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.
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.
More about Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs
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 Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky?
For Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky look for?
The top searched job categories for Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs?
Cities in Kentucky with the most Entry Level Surgical Tech job openings:
$40K/yr
Full-time
Posted 3 days ago
New
Job description
The Health Technician (Telehealth Clinical) serves in a generalist role to support and manage telehealth operations and is typically stationed at a clinical care delivery site (VA Medical Center, CBOC, VA Outreach Clinic, etc.), with duties that may require travel.Qualifications:Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements:
Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates.
GS-5 (Entry Level):
GS-6 (Full Performance Level):
(1)Experience. You must possess at least one (1) year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level GS-05 in the federal service that equipped you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the Telehealth Clinical Technician, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled. Assignments associated with this position include, but are not limited to: Schedule telehealth appointments using an electronic scheduling system; Obtain and document patient history and pertinent clinical information in electronic medical records; Prepares the telehealth room where the Health Technician (Telehealth Clinical) readies the equipment for examination; Establishes video conferencing connection and makes introductions between patient site and provider site; Monitors and maintains electronic schedule of rooms, patients, technologies, and presenters; administers the patient satisfaction survey; Cleans and performs minor routine maintenance of assigned telehealth technology.
(2) Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA). In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs.
(a) Comprehensive knowledge of computer systems and programs to perform a variety of tasks.
(b) Ability to communicate, consult, and interact with other members of the healthcare team, external relations, customer service and patient education
(c) Ability to provide and receive guidance and technical direction.
(d) Ability to plan, organize, set priorities, work as a team member, and effectively complete assignments.(e) Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex written instructions.
(f) Knowledge of general clinical policies and procedures in a healthcare environment.
(g) Skilled in the use of telehealth technologies for the facilitation of telehealth clinical encounters.
Preferred Experience: Previous experience in Home Telehealth or Remote Patient Monitoring. Experience with Electronic Health Records. Experience with standard products including computer, email, word processing, etc.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-06. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-06.
Physical Requirements: The work requires some physical exertion such as prolonged periods of standing, bending, reaching, crouching, stooping, stretching, and lifting moderately heavy items such as manuals, record boxes, equipment or assisting patients. The work requires above average agility and dexterity. The incumbent may be required to travel between VA and/or Non-VA clinical care sites and possession of a valid driver's license may be required.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.Education:IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER
Basic Requirements:
- United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
- Experience: One year of experience in a health care field that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides an understanding of the work such as but not limited to a medical or clinical assistant (or technician) or health technician; OR
- Education: Four academic years above high school leading to a bachelor's degree with courses related to the occupation; OR
- Experience/Education Combination: Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable. Examples are listed below:
- Six months of experience in the health care field and two years of education above high school that included at least six semester hours in health care related courses such as, biological science, surgical technician courses, nursing assistant or other courses related to the position; or an associate's degree in a health care related field; OR
- Six months of experience in the health care field and successful completion of a course for health care technicians, hospital corpsmen, or medical service specialists given by the U.S. Armed Forces.
Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates.
GS-5 (Entry Level):
- Experience or Education. None beyond the basic requirements.
GS-6 (Full Performance Level):
(1)Experience. You must possess at least one (1) year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level GS-05 in the federal service that equipped you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the Telehealth Clinical Technician, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled. Assignments associated with this position include, but are not limited to: Schedule telehealth appointments using an electronic scheduling system; Obtain and document patient history and pertinent clinical information in electronic medical records; Prepares the telehealth room where the Health Technician (Telehealth Clinical) readies the equipment for examination; Establishes video conferencing connection and makes introductions between patient site and provider site; Monitors and maintains electronic schedule of rooms, patients, technologies, and presenters; administers the patient satisfaction survey; Cleans and performs minor routine maintenance of assigned telehealth technology.
(2) Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA). In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs.
(a) Comprehensive knowledge of computer systems and programs to perform a variety of tasks.
(b) Ability to communicate, consult, and interact with other members of the healthcare team, external relations, customer service and patient education
(c) Ability to provide and receive guidance and technical direction.
(d) Ability to plan, organize, set priorities, work as a team member, and effectively complete assignments.(e) Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex written instructions.
(f) Knowledge of general clinical policies and procedures in a healthcare environment.
(g) Skilled in the use of telehealth technologies for the facilitation of telehealth clinical encounters.
Preferred Experience: Previous experience in Home Telehealth or Remote Patient Monitoring. Experience with Electronic Health Records. Experience with standard products including computer, email, word processing, etc.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-06. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-06.
Physical Requirements: The work requires some physical exertion such as prolonged periods of standing, bending, reaching, crouching, stooping, stretching, and lifting moderately heavy items such as manuals, record boxes, equipment or assisting patients. The work requires above average agility and dexterity. The incumbent may be required to travel between VA and/or Non-VA clinical care sites and possession of a valid driver's license may be required.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.Education:IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER