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

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Entry Level Surgical Tech information

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$700

$1.8K

$2.8K

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

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level surgical tech in Raleigh, NC is $1,829.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,365.38 and $2,242.31 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,142 per year, or $45.7 per hour.

Surgical Technologist - Endoscopy at Brier Creek - Raleigh

Dukehealth.org

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Duke Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 256 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

345th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Join Duke Health Integrated Practice

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.

Pursue your passion for caring with Duke Health Integrated Practice, which comprises more than 110 primary and specialty outpatient clinics, extending the reach of Duke Health's mission across the state of North Carolina.

$10,000 Commitment Bonus for qualifying candidates!

Job Location

Duke GI-Endoscopy at Brier Creek - 10207 Cerny St

Job Summary

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.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

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

Job Hours

The schedule for this position is day shifts, Monday-Friday, with no weekends or holidays.

Duke is an 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 (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military 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 our 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 essential job 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.


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