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Entry Level Surgical Tech Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

... entry-level position works to achieve the initial competencies required to deliver specialized cardiovascular and/or radiologic technology services to adult and/or pediatric patient populations for ...

Under immediate to general supervision and direction of a mentor/preceptor, this entry-level ... radiologic technology services to adult and/or pediatric patient populations for the purpose of ...

Entry Level Surgical Tech information

See Oklahoma salary details

$665

$1.7K

$2.7K

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level surgical tech in Oklahoma is $1,738.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,296.15 and $2,130.77 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 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 with experience and additional skills, pay can increase.

How to get started as an entry level surgical tech?

To start as an entry-level surgical tech, complete a formal surgical technology program accredited by a recognized agency, which typically results in a certificate or associate degree. Obtain certification through the National Surgical Technology Certification Examination, and gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations or internships to develop necessary skills for the operating room environment.

Is it hard to get hired as an entry level surgical tech?

Entry level surgical tech positions can be competitive, but having relevant certifications such as Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and completing a formal training program can improve hiring prospects. Employers often seek candidates with basic knowledge of sterile techniques, anatomy, and the ability to work in fast-paced surgical environments.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs in Oklahoma?

For Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs in Oklahoma, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Oklahoma are hiring for Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs?

Cities in Oklahoma with the most Entry Level Surgical Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Surgical Tech job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,376 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Surgical Technologist (Levels 1-3) Dean McGee Eye Institute - Eye Surgery Center

OU Health

Oklahoma City, OK

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


OU Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

346th of 896 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Title:Surgical Technologist (Levels 1-3) Dean McGee Eye Institute - Eye Surgery CenterDepartment:DMEI Ambulatory Surgery CenterJob Description:

This position may be filled as Surgical Technologist 1, 2, or 3, depending on individual experience, education, and other qualifications.
Special Benefits:
Sign-on bonus up to $5,000 for qualified individuals

Relocation assistance if moving 100+ miles

As Oklahoma's largest and most comprehensive eye care practice, we bring together fellowship-trained specialists in every subspecialty of ophthalmology - from routine eye exams to the most complex surgical procedures. Our team provides over 210,000 patient visits annually, offering expertise you won't find anywhere else in the region.

Location: OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute

Shift: Full-Time , 6:30-5pm No weekends, No Holidays

Job Description

The Surgical Technologist I is an entry level professional who works under supervision to provide technical assistance in an operating room, labor and delivery, or other unit performing surgical or invasive procedures.

Essential Responsibilities:

Responsibilities listed in this section are core to the position. Inability to perform these responsibilities with or without an accommodation may result in disqualification from the position.

Utilizes physician's preference cards to assist in preparing the operating room for the surgical procedure.
Assists in maintaining and updating preference cards.
Maintains an adequate supply of instruments and supplies to meet the patient's changing needs.
Scrubs in and sets up instruments and supplies prior to procedure.
Prepares sterile field by obtaining, opening, and arranging instruments and supplies anticipated for the procedure.
Ensures continuous monitoring of sterile field once established.
Assists in draping the patient and operative area.
With nurse, opens and prepares the sterile field.
Assists the nurse in correct identification of operative specimens for laboratory analysis.
Remains attentive during surgery and provides additional instruments, supplies, or other items as needed.
Remains attentive to sterile field and recognizes and corrects breaks in sterile technique.
Delivers medications to the surgeon.
Participates in sponge, needle, and instrument counts as directed by policy.
Reports all drains, packs, implants, etc. to the circulating nurse and assists with application of dressings.
Informs appropriate personnel of any potential problems regarding patient or procedure.
Takes emergency action as required.
Assists with post-operative processing of instruments and equipment.
Cleans operating room areas and disposes of sharps from sterile field according to policy.
Participates in evaluation of new products, methods, or equipment to determine quality.
Acts as a liaison between physicians and management regarding instruments and supplies.
Assists with patient transport as needed.


General Responsibilities:

Performs other duties as assigned.
Level 1:

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Graduation from an accredited school/program for Surgical Technology required.

Experience: No experience required. Previous hospital experience preferred.

Licensure/Certifications/Registrations Required:

Basic Life Support issued by the American Heart Association required.
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) issued by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or Tech in Surgery (TS-C) issued by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) preferred.
Level 2:

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Graduation from an accredited school/program for Surgical Technology required.

Experience: At least 3 years of experience as a Surgical Technologist required.

Licensure/Certifications/Registrations Required:

Basic Life Support issued by the American Heart Association required.
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) issued by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or Tech in Surgery (TS-C) issued by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) required.
Level 3

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Graduation from an accredited school/program for Surgical Technology required.

Experience: At least 5 years of experience as a Surgical Technologist required.

Licensure/Certifications/Registrations Required:

Basic Life Support issued by the American Heart Association required.
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) issued by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or Tech in Surgery (TS-C) issued by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) required.


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of medical asepsis as it applies to the operating room.
Knowledge of various instruments used for each type of surgical procedure.
Knowledge of proper operating room setup.
Knowledge of proper method of handling and transferring instruments and supplies.
Knowledge of proper handling of tissue specimens, cultures, and smears.
Knowledge of inventory methods.
Skills in maintaining an effective working relationship with others.
Skills in following technical written and verbal instructions.
Skills in providing technical assistance in all specialty areas.
Understanding of the principles of growth and development over the lifespan and relevant ability to provide care appropriate to the patient's age-specific needs (neonate, pediatric, adolescent, adult, geriatric).
Proficient in basic computer functions and programs.
Additional Job Description
Additional Job Description
Essential Physical Functions of the Job

Employees must be able to perform the following physical activities with or without accommodations.

Stand 8-12 hours per day
Sit 0-4 hours per day
Walk 8-12 hours per day
Continuous ability to distinguish colors
Continuous ability to hear normal speaking and alarms
Continuous visual acuity (20/50)
Continuous use of fine motor skills
Continuous ability to lift/carry up to 35lbs
Frequent bending
Frequent crouching
Frequent kneeling
Frequent reaching above head
Frequent reaching above shoulder
Frequent pushing/pulling up to 100lbs
Occasional climbing
Occasional crawling


Hazardous Exposures of the Job

Continuous repetitive motions
Frequent radiation/electromagnetic energy
Frequent hazardous chemicals or medications
Frequent dust/fumes/gases (requires use of respirator)
Frequent respiratory transmitted diseases (requires use of respirator)
Frequent communicable diseases
Occasional loud noises exceeding 85 decibels for more than 30 mins

Current OU Health Employees - Please click HERE to login.OU Health is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including PTO, 401(k), medical and dental plans, and many more. We know that a total benefits and compensation package, designed to meet your specific needs both inside and outside of the work environment, create peace of mind for you and your family.

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About OU Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

OU Health is a leading company in the healthcare industry, based in Oklahoma City, OK, US. As the state's only comprehensive academic health system, OU Health provides a full spectrum of medical care, from world-class cancer treatments to life-saving emergency care. Founded with a mission to advance healthcare, medical education, and research across the state, the company has a solid reputation for clinical excellence and a patient-centered approach. Upholding its core values of compassion, integrity, and innovation, OU Health has remarkably made a significant contribution to medical research and education and raised the standard of care across a broad range of specialties.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Oklahoma City, OK, US

Year founded

2020