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Entry Level Surgical Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UPMC Senior Communities

Surgical Technologist

Hanover, PA · On-site

$27.71 - $35.38/hr

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

UPMC Harrisburg

Surgical Technologist

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

UPMC Harrisburg

Surgical Technologist

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

UPMC Senior Communities

Surgical Technologist

York, PA · On-site

$27.71 - $35.38/hr

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

UPMC Pinnacle Memorial

Surgical Technologist

York, PA · On-site

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

UPMC Pinnacle Memorial

Surgical Technologist

York, PA · On-site

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

UPMC Senior Communities

Surgical Technologist

York, PA · On-site

$27.71 - $35.38/hr

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

UPMC Pinnacle Memorial

Surgical Technologist

York, PA · On-site

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

UPMC Senior Communities

Surgical Technologist

York, PA · On-site

$27.71 - $35.38/hr

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

UPMC Pinnacle Memorial

Surgical Technologist

York, PA · On-site

Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the ... Entry level job 0-2 years experience. * NY State Law: Public Health Law 2824 Chapter 292 of the ...

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Entry Level Surgical Tech information

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$721

$1.9K

$2.9K

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

As of Sep 2, 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 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.
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,880 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Surgical Technologist, Full-Time

UPMC Senior Communities

Monroeville, PA • On-site

$23.27 - $29.69/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

UPMC East Hospital is hiring a full-time Surgical Technologist to support the Operating Room!
We have expanded our OR rooms and are seeking future life changers to join our team! At East, you'll have the opportunity to assist in exciting service lines featuring ortho, robotics, vascular hybrid and more! Shift times start as early as 6am Monday-Friday, and our Surg Techs work either 3, 12-hour or 4, 10-hour shifts each week. Occasional rotating on-call time is required.
UPMC East offers the opportunity to grow your career with our Surg Tech career ladder- increase your pay rate as you gain years of experience! All experience is welcomed, and students may apply months before their anticipated graduation! Pay range shown is for our entry level title, but will be increased based on years of experience. The UPMC East Operating Rooms seldom have job openings. Seize this opportunity today to advance your career!
We are currently offering a generous sign-on bonus for this position! The sign-on bonus amount depends on your years of Surgical Technologist experience and will be paid out to you in a one-time payment within your first 90 days:
0-1 years of Surg Tech experience: work commitment to remain at UPMC for 2 years= $10,000 bonus OR 3-year commitment = $12,000 bonus
1-2 years of Surg Tech experience: work commitment to remain at UPMC for 2 years= $12,000 bonus OR 3-year commitment = $17,000 bonus
2+ years of Surg Tech experience: work commitment to remain at UPMC for 2 years= $15,000 bonus OR 3-year commitment = $25,000 bonus
Surgical Technologists perform a variety of tasks in an operating room that assist the surgical team. Arrange sterile setup for surgical procedures; pass instruments, sponge and suture to surgeons and surgical assistants; prepare sterile supplies; assist in cleanup of the operating room; check placement and operation of equipment; and check and restock operating room. During surgical procedures may be responsible for special trays, graft materials, and record patient data.
Responsibilities:
  • Ensure all medications are labeled and handed to surgeon according to established policies and procedures.
  • Before an operation, help to prepare the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and equipment, sterile drapes, and sterile solutions. Assemble both sterile and non-sterile equipment. Adjust and check equipment to ensure it is working properly.
  • During surgery, efficiently pass instruments and other sterile supplies to surgeons and surgeon assistants. Hold retractors or instruments, cut sutures, sponge or suction the operative site under the supervision of the surgeon and help count sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments.
  • Assist in the preparation, care for, and disposal of specimens taken for laboratory analysis and helps apply dressings.
  • Assist the surgical team with putting on sterile gowns and gloves.
  • After surgery, may help transfer patients to the recovery room. Clean and restock the operating room.
  • Prepare patients for surgery by wash, shave, and ensure aseptic incision sites. May transport patients to the operating room, help position them on the operating table, and cover them with sterile surgical drapes.
  • Ensure clean, safe environment through continued alertness to safety and explosive hazards and aseptic technique.

Qualifications:
  • PA legislature House Bill 81 enacted 10/29/2020 and became effective 12/27/2020.Must have completed program sponsored by nationally recognized institutional or programmatic accreditation and maintains certification or Has completed appropriate military training program or Maintains certification from accredited program or Was employed as a surg tech in a health care facility on or before effective date of the act (12/27/2020) or Employed as a surg tech at another health care facility two years before effective date (12/27/2020). Continuing education requirements: Compliance with continuing ed requirements specified by the credentialing organization for certification. For individuals not certified - must complete 30 hours of continuing ed every two years. Specialty experience: Surgical specialties include but are not limited to: general, orthopedic, vascular, plastic and reconstructive, obstetrics and gynecology, thoracic, ophthalmic, neurosurgery, organ procurement and endoscopic surgical settings. Access to medications is limited to the distribution of the medication to the nurse. Note: Staff employed to practice surgical technology by the health care facility on or before the effective date of the law (12/27/2020) or who were employed as a surg tech at another health care facility two years before effective date of the law are grandfathered and therefore not required to have certification. New graduates of a program sponsored by nationally recognized institutional or programmatic accreditation can work for six months prior to certification but must be certified within six months of program completion.
  • Pay range shown for entry level 0-2 years experience, but title and pay may be adjusted for candidates with more experience.
    Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
    CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire. Certification Details - Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or Technologist Surgery Certified (TSC) within 6 months of program completion: Exception: A health care facility may employ individuals who do not meet the certification requirements if after a diligent and thorough effort has been made they are unable to employ a sufficient number of qualified surg techs who meet the requirements (i.e. certification) and a written record of efforts is made and retained at the health care facility. (1. Recruitment efforts are documented and can be supplied for this record. 2. The supply of certified or eligible to be certified surg techs does not meet the needs of the organization).PA legislature House Bill 81 enacted 10/29/2020 and became effective 12/27/2020.Provides evidence that the individual maintains a surgical technologist certification from an accredited certification program or was employed to practice surgical technology by the healthcare facility on or before the effective date of this section or was employed to practice surgical technology as the individual's primary function in another health care facility at any time during the two years immediately preceding the effective date of this section.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
  • Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) OR Tech in Surgery-Certified (TSC)
  • Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting with renewal
  • Act 33 with renewal
  • Act 34 with renewal
  • Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

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