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Entry Level Surgical Technologist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Applied Medical

Quality Inspector

Lake Forest, CA

$18 - $23/hr

Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years ... Experience working with the SAP enterprise system. * Entry-level understanding of inspecting raw ...

Applied Medical

Quality Inspector

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years ... Experience working with the SAP enterprise system. * Entry-level understanding of inspecting raw ...

Applied Medical

Quality Inspector

Lake Forest, CA

$18 - $23/hr

Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years ... Experience working with the SAP enterprise system. * Entry-level understanding of inspecting raw ...

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Entry Level Surgical Technologist information

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$752

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level surgical technologist in Riverside, CA is $1,963.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,465.38 and $2,407.69 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level surgical technologist?

Entry level surgical technologists, also known as surgical techs or operating room technicians, are healthcare professionals who assist surgeons, nurses, and other surgical team members during operations. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and ensuring all necessary supplies are available. Entry level surgical technologists typically work under the supervision of experienced staff and are involved in tasks such as passing instruments to surgeons, maintaining a sterile environment, and helping with patient care before and after surgery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level surgical technologist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Surgical Technologist, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and anatomy, typically gained through a surgical technology certificate or associate degree. Familiarity with operating room equipment, sterilization systems, and electronic documentation tools is crucial. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and effective support for surgeons and healthcare teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level surgical technologists, and how can new hires effectively overcome them?

Entry level surgical technologists often face challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced operating room environment, managing multiple tasks under pressure, and quickly learning hospital-specific protocols. Building strong communication with surgical teams and proactively seeking feedback can help new technologists acclimate more smoothly. Additionally, staying organized and continually reviewing procedural steps will support confidence and efficiency during surgeries. Most hospitals offer mentorship or orientation programs, which are great opportunities for new hires to ask questions and develop their skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Surgical Technologist vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectEntry Level Surgical TechnologistSurgical Technologist
CredentialsPost-secondary education, certification often preferredSame as entry level, with experience
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsSame as entry level, with more responsibilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in surgeries, prepare operating roomsPerform similar tasks, with increased independence
ExperienceNone or minimalTypically 1+ years of experience

In summary, an Entry Level Surgical Technologist is just starting in the field, performing basic assisting tasks, while a Surgical Technologist has gained experience and may handle more responsibilities. Both roles work in similar environments and require comparable credentials, but experience distinguishes the two.

How to get started as an entry level surgical technologist?

To start as an entry-level surgical technologist, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a surgical technology training program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), and earn certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential. Gaining hands-on clinical experience during training and developing skills in sterile techniques and anatomy are essential for entry into the field.

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

Getting hired as an entry-level surgical technologist can be competitive, but having a certification, relevant clinical experience, and strong attention to detail can improve job prospects. Employers often seek candidates with basic knowledge of sterile techniques and the ability to work in fast-paced surgical environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical Technologist jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Surgical Technologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Surgical Technologist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Surgical Technologist job openings:

Entry Level Surgical Technologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Surgical Technologist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,115 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Radiographer I

Community Hospital San Bernardino

San Bernardino, CA

$47.98/hr

Per diem

Re-posted yesterday

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Radiographer, you will be a vital clinical professional, applying specialized imaging techniques for precise patient diagnosis and treatment.
Every day, you'll meticulously perform diagnostic imaging procedures, including X-rays, ensuring patient safety, comfort, and accurate positioning. You'll operate advanced equipment with precision, maintain image quality, and adhere to radiation safety, collaborating to deliver high-quality diagnostic services.
To be successful, you'll combine strong technical expertise with meticulous attention to detail, excellent patient communication, and a compassionate approach, directly contributing to accurate diagnoses and effective treatment.

  • Operates complex radiographic equipment, both mobile and stationary, in various patient care settings for purposes of obtaining standard diagnostic radiographs.
  • Competency in assigned imaging modalities (CT, MRI, NM, US, CV, IR, Mammography):
  • Passes Imaging competency assessment for general diagnostic and surgery procedures.
  • Employs knowledge of proper medical imaging infection control policy and procedures.
  • Observes department radiation and safety policies and procedures in the spirit of As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA), proper pediatric dose reduction, and Image Kindly. Verifies patient identification, order accuracy, and correct contrast media dose.
  • Reports any operational problems, personnel issues, or adverse events to management and the approved reporting system (patient event system or equipment repair requests), including equipment malfunctions (lock out, tag out).
Job Requirements

Required

  • Graduate from an accredited JRCERT Medical Radiography School and passed the entry level radiography board examination from the ARRT.,
  • Medical Radiographer: CA
  • AHA Basic Life Support - CPR
  • Fluoroscopy Radiology Tech: CA
  • Registered Technologist Radiography ARRT or
  • Registered Technologist Bone Densitometry or
  • Registered Technologist Computed Tomography or
  • Registered Technologist Cardio Interventional Radiography or
  • Registered Technologist Mammography or
  • Registered Technologist Magnetic Resonance Imaging or
  • Registered Technologist Nuclear Medicine Technology or
  • Registered Technologist Quality Management or
  • Registered Technologist Radiation Therapy or
  • Registered Technologist Vascualr Inteventional Rad or
  • Registered Technologist Vascular Sonography


Preferred

  • Two (2) years experience in an acute care hospital setting, performing a variety of general diagnostic procedures utilizing ionizing radiation 
  • Experience with digital imaging systems, PACS, and basic health care informatics
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1910, Dignity Health - Community Hospital of San Bernardino is a 343-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital. Serving over 75,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level II NICU, maternity care and pediatrics, and behavioral health and long-term subacute care for adults and children. 

Additionally, Community Hospital of San Bernardino has been recognized with the gold seal of approval by the Joint Commission, as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, and rated five stars for Children’s Subacute Center by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. In 2025, we were voted Best Hospital by Inland Empire Magazine. 

Community Hospital of San Bernardino shares a legacy of humankindness with Dignity Health and CommonSpirit Health, one of the nation’s largest health care systems, dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality, and affordable patient-centered care.

One Community. One Mission. One California 

Qualifications:

Required

  • Graduate from an accredited JRCERT Medical Radiography School and passed the entry level radiography board examination from the ARRT.,
  • Medical Radiographer: CA
  • AHA Basic Life Support - CPR
  • Fluoroscopy Radiology Tech: CA
  • Registered Technologist Radiography ARRT or
  • Registered Technologist Bone Densitometry or
  • Registered Technologist Computed Tomography or
  • Registered Technologist Cardio Interventional Radiography or
  • Registered Technologist Mammography or
  • Registered Technologist Magnetic Resonance Imaging or
  • Registered Technologist Nuclear Medicine Technology or
  • Registered Technologist Quality Management or
  • Registered Technologist Radiation Therapy or
  • Registered Technologist Vascualr Inteventional Rad or
  • Registered Technologist Vascular Sonography


Preferred

  • Two (2) years experience in an acute care hospital setting, performing a variety of general diagnostic procedures utilizing ionizing radiation 
  • Experience with digital imaging systems, PACS, and basic health care informatics
Employment Type: PRN

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