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Entry Level Surgical Technology 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.

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Entry Level Surgical Technology information

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$1.9K

$2.9K

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

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level surgical technology 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.

How to get started as a surgical tech?

To start as a surgical technologist, you typically need to complete a postsecondary surgical technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). After completing the program, obtaining certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is often required or preferred by employers. Gaining hands-on clinical experience during training and maintaining certification through continuing education are important steps in establishing a career in surgical technology.

What are entry level surgical technologists?

Entry level surgical technologists, also known as surgical techs or operating room technicians, are healthcare professionals who assist surgeons and nurses during surgical procedures. They help prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment, and ensure a sterile environment. Entry level surgical technologists typically have recently completed an accredited educational program and may hold certification. Their responsibilities include passing instruments to surgeons, handling supplies, and supporting patient safety during operations. This role is vital for efficient and safe surgical procedures.

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

AspectEntry Level Surgical TechnologySurgical Technologist
CredentialsPost-secondary certificate or diploma, CPR certificationSame as Entry Level Surgical Technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgery centers, clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in surgical procedures, prepare operating roomsAssist surgeons, handle sterile equipment, prep rooms
Experience LevelEntry-level, on-the-job trainingTypically entry to mid-level, with some experience

Entry Level Surgical Technology and Surgical Technologist roles are closely aligned, with similar certifications and work environments. The main difference is that 'Entry Level Surgical Technology' often refers to initial positions or training phases, while 'Surgical Technologist' can denote a more experienced role. Both roles support surgical teams in hospitals and clinics, focusing on patient safety and sterile procedures.

Is it easy to get hired as a surgical tech?

Getting hired as an entry-level surgical technologist can be competitive, but having certification, relevant clinical experience, and strong attention to detail can improve job prospects. Employers often seek candidates with good teamwork skills and knowledge of sterile techniques. Job availability depends on healthcare facility needs and regional demand.

What are some common challenges entry-level surgical technologists face during their first year on the job?

Entry-level surgical technologists often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment of the operating room, mastering strict sterile techniques, and learning the preferences of different surgeons. Balancing the need for precision with quick decision-making can be demanding, especially during emergency procedures. New technologists typically work closely with experienced team members and benefit from mentorship, which helps them build confidence and refine their skills over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Surgical Technologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Surgical Technologist, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and anatomy, usually supported by completion of an accredited surgical technology program and certification (such as CST). Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room equipment, and electronic health record systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and effective collaboration with surgical teams.

What is the lowest salary for a surgical technologist?

The lowest salary for a surgical technologist typically starts around $30,000 to $35,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and employer. Entry-level positions may offer lower wages, but with certification and experience, salaries can increase significantly.

Can I get a job as a surgical tech with no experience?

Entry-level surgical technologists can often find positions without prior experience, especially if they complete a formal training program and obtain certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). Employers may provide on-the-job training to develop necessary skills in sterile techniques and operating room procedures.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Surgical Technology jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Surgical Technology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical Technology jobs? The most popular types of Surgical Technology jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Surgical Technology jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Surgical Technology jobs include:
Entry Level Surgical Technology jobs near you

Surgical Technologist, Full-Time

UPMC East

Monroeville, PA

Other

Posted 14 days ago

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 generoussign-on bonusfor 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=$10,000bonus OR 3-year commitment =$12,000bonus

1-2 years of Surg Tech experience: work commitment to remain at UPMC for 2 years=$12,000bonus OR 3-year commitment =$17,000bonus

2+ years of Surg Tech experience: work commitment to remain at UPMC for 2 years=$15,000bonus OR 3-year commitment =$25,000bonus

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.
  • 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


UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

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