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Entry Level Surgical Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LifeBridge Health

SURG TECHNOLOGIST

Randallstown, MD

REQUIREMENTS: Entry level knowledge; basic employment skills; High School diploma or GED equivalent ... Accredited Surgical Technology Course Certificate; Surgical Technologist Certification preferred.

K.A. Recruiting

PA · On-site

The Surgical Tech provides entry level technical services and assistance in the operating room in accordance with established procedures, protocols and regulations and prepares operating rooms for ...

LifeBridge Health

SURG TECHNOLOGIST

Randallstown, MD

REQUIREMENTS: Entry level knowledge; basic employment skills; High School diploma or GED equivalent ... Accredited Surgical Technology Course Certificate; Surgical Technologist Certification preferred.

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Entry Level Surgical Tech information

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

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level surgical tech in the United States is $1,882.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,403.85 and $2,307.69 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, 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.

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.
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Entry Level Surgical Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Surgical Tech job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,880 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Graduate Surgical Technologist

UPMC St. Margaret

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$17K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

UPMC St. Margaret, a four-time Magnet-designated hospital committed to Nursing and Patient Excellence, is seeking entry-level Surgical Technologists to join our state-of-the-art Operating Room team. Our OR supports a wide range of specialties, including orthopedic procedures such as total joint replacements, sports medicine, and general surgery featuring advanced technology like DaVinci robotic systems. As part of our highly skilled surgical team, you will play a vital role in ensuring patient safety and surgical excellence.

In this role, you will prepare the operating room by arranging instruments, equipment, and sterile supplies, assist with patient preparation and positioning, and support the surgical team throughout procedures by passing instruments, handling specimens, and maintaining strict aseptic technique. Post-operatively, you will help transfer patients to recovery and ensure the OR is cleaned and restocked. Additional responsibilities include serving as a resource for staff, precepting new employees, and collaborating with clinicians to share best practices.

Sign-On Bonus:

This position offers a generous sign on bonus to eligible candidates with 0-2 years of Surgical Technologist Experience

  • Surgical Technologists with 0-1 Year of experience:
    • $10,000 with a 2-year commitment to UPMC
    • $12,000 with a 3-year commitment to UPMC
  • Surgical Technologists with 1-2 years of experience:
    • $12,000 with a 2-year commitment to UPMC
    • $17,000 with a 3-year commitment to UPMC

On-Call Pay:

  • Scheduled on-call standby rate: $3.40/hour
  • If called in during scheduled on-call hours, you are paid for a minimum of 2 hours, even if the procedure gets canceled!
  • After 40 hours worked, all additional hours are paid 1.5 times hourly rate.
Shift Details
  • Orientation: Completed on 8 or 10-hour shifts (6:30 AM-3 PM or 6:30 AM-5 PM), depending on preceptor.
  • Post-Orientation:
    • Start times include 6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM, and 10:30 AM.
    • Staff may request 10 or 12-hour shifts after orientation; approval based on department needs.
    • In order to work 12-hour shifts, employee must be competent in all service lines.
Weekend, Holiday, & Call Rotation
  • Holidays:
    • Staff receive one major holiday call (12 hours) and one minor holiday call (12 hours) per rotation.
    • Rotation list is updated as new staff join and is not seniority based

  • Typical Call Shifts:

    • Saturday 7 PM-6:30 AM Sunday, Sunday 7 PM-11 PM.
    • Monday-Thursday 7 PM-11 PM, Friday 11 PM-6:30 AM.
  • Current Rotation:
    • Staff typically have one weekday call and one weekend call OR two weekday calls in a 4-week schedule.
      • Call rotation is subject to change at any time based on staffing and department needs

This position is posted as a Surgical Technologist which is a valued step in UPMC's Surgical Technologist Career Ladder, the final candidate will be placed in the appropriate title and salary based on experience and education.

Must Meet the following Qualifications:
  • Highschool Diploma
  • Certified Surgical Technologist from an accredited program or military training
  • 0-2 years of Surgical Technologist Experience
  • PA Legislature House Bill 81
    • Employed as a Surgical Technologist before 12/27/2020 or within 2-year prior

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
  • Act 33 with renewal
  • Act 34 with renewal
  • Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

Apply