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Entry Level Surgical Tech Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Surgical Tech information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$636

$1.7K

$2.6K

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

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level surgical tech in Raleigh, NC is $1,661.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,240.38 and $2,036.54 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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Surgical Tech jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Surgical Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Surgical Tech job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,419 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Surgical Technologist - Endoscopy

Surgical Technologist - Endoscopy

Duke Health

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Duke Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 247 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

332nd of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.

About Duke Raleigh Hospital, A Campus of Duke University Hospital

Pursue your passion for caring with the Duke Raleigh Campus in Raleigh, North Carolina. With 204-beds, it is the third largest of Duke Health's four hospitals and offers a comprehensive array of services, including cancer, cardiovascular, neuroscience, advanced gastrointestinal, and wound healing care.


Surgical Technologists are eligible for a $10,000 Commitment Bonus!
Relocation Assistance also available!

General Description of the Job Class

  • Surgical Technologists (ST) are allied health professionals who assist in the preparation and care of surgical patients ranging from infancy to geriatrics under the general direction of a professional nurse. The ST possesses expertise in the theory and application of sterile aseptic technique and combines the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tools and technologies to facilitate a surgeon's performance of invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.
  • The ST who has a dual function in the operating room and the ambulatory setting demonstrates competency in the care of surgical patients preoperatively and postoperatively in the ambulatory surgical clinic setting.

Duties and Responsibilities of this Level
Level I - New graduate with up to 18 months of full-time equivalent experience.

  • Perform all responsibilities in a manner that demonstrates Service Excellence towards patients, physicians, peers and other departments. Assume responsibility for upholding the policies and procedures of the department and organization.
  • Demonstrates eagerness to learn, takes direction, adapts to changes within unit, demonstrates consistent progress toward Level II.
  • Establishes and maintains sterile field and assures team maintains sterile environment. Demonstrate and practice a good understanding of sterile technique.
  • Has a basic knowledge of instrumentations. Prepare Operating Room with appropriate instrumentation, equipment and supplies.
  • Demonstrates correct and safe instrumentation passing and performs sponge, needle and instrument counts in a safe and accurate manner.
  • Maintain technical skills to serve a patient population comprised of infancy to geriatric clients.
  • Take calls and rotate shifts as required under the direction of a registered nurse.
  • For Surgical Technologists with a dual role in an ambulatory environment, additional responsibilities may include: prepare patients for examinations and procedures in the surgical clinic setting; assist the physician during patient examination and procedures in the clinic; collect and label laboratory specimens for processing; reinforce postoperative instructions under direction of physician or RN; assist with incoming and outgoing patient calls under supervision of physician or RN; remove sutures/ staples, change sterile and non-sterile dressings, following DUHS policies and procedures, under direction of RN or physician; perform other clinical functions as delegated and supervised by the RN or physician; schedule and post surgical cases; coordinate complex scheduling of cases which require additional surgical support; update and file patient medical records.
  • Must advance to level II within 18 months.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as required.

Level II - Perform all the duties and responsibilities of Level I, plus the following:

  • Assist with the teaching of newly hired technologists and student technologists.
  • Serve as a role model to new employees and other staff members.
  • Establish and maintain sterile field and assure team maintains sterile environment independently.
  • Anticipate the needs of the surgical team.
  • Apply basic knowledge of instrumentations to several cases.
  • Demonstrate appropriate and correct case preparation.
  • Competent at unit level.
  • Corrects deficiencies at the case level.
  • Communicate effectively with patients, staff members and physicians.
  • Adherence to standards including but not limited to unit and hospital policies and procedures, regulatory standards, and patient safety goals.
  • Assume responsibility for self and ensures that the policies, procedures and safety practices of the Operating Room and Hospital are reinforced.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as required.

Required Qualifications at this Level
Education

  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program or maintains an accredited Surgical Technologist certification (NCCT or NBSTSA).
  • Or, provides evidence of the successful completion of an appropriate training program for Surgical Technology in the United States Military.

Experience

  • Level I- Entry level position for new graduates of Surgical Technology program or Surgical Technologists with 0 to 18 months experience.
  • Level II- Requires 6 to 12 months of full-time equivalent Surgical Technology or relevant military experience.

Degrees, Licensure, and/or Certification

  • Level I- N/A
  • Level II- N/A

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to adapt to changes within unit.
  • Ability to work effectively and efficiently under pressure in a stressful environment, and often without relief.
  • Ability to demonstrate knowledge of anatomy relating to the surgical procedure and the instrumentation required in order to effectively anticipate the needs of the surgeon.
  • Ability to set priorities and respond appropriately to actual and/or potential life threatening situations.

Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essentialjob functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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