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New Grad Surgical Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

United Surgical Partners

Surgical Tech

San Diego, CA · On-site

$33 - $40/hr

Surgical Technologist Synergy Surgery Center Welcome to Synergy Surgery Center Synergy Surgery ... Support new hires and existing staff through precepting and/or orienting new hires and existing ...

CommonSpirit Health

Surgery Tech

Grass Valley, CA

Vocational School Grad Satisfactory completion of surgical technician training program * 1-3 years one year of surgical tech experience or other military equivalent. * May substituted if the ...

Dignity Health

Surgery Tech

Grass Valley, CA · On-site

$36.80 - $44.86/hr

Vocational School Grad Satisfactory completion of surgical technician training program * 1-3 years one year of surgical tech experience or other military equivalent. * May substituted if the ...

Eisenhower

Surgical Tech II

Rancho Mirage, CA

$27.75 - $41.94/hr

Certification as a Surgical Technologist if hired after January 1, 2025; American Heart Association ... Remains current with new intraoperative techniques and equipment through participation in unit ...

Eisenhower

Surgical Tech II

Rancho Mirage, CA

$30.59 - $46.48/hr

Certification as a Surgical Technologist if hired after January 1, 2025; American Heart Association ... Remains current with new intraoperative techniques and equipment through participation in unit ...

USPI, INC.

Surgical Tech

San Diego, CA · On-site

$33 - $40/hr

Surgical Technologist Synergy Surgery Center is hiring a Surgical Technologist - Full-time. Our ... Support new hires and existing staff through precepting and/or orienting new hires and existing ...

New

Eisenhower

Surgical Tech III

Rancho Mirage, CA

$29.14 - $44.26/hr

Certification as a Surgical Technologist; American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS ... Remains current with new intraoperative techniques and equipment through participation in unit ...

Olaro

Allied / Surgical Tech

Redwood City, CA · On-site

Surgical Technologist Opportunity We are seeking a highly organized and proactive Surgical ... Whether you're looking to explore new locations or gain valuable clinical experience, Olaro ...

New

Olaro

Allied / Surgical Tech

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

Surgical Technologist Opportunity We are seeking a highly organized and proactive Surgical ... Whether you're looking to explore new locations or gain valuable clinical experience, Olaro ...

CommonSpirit Health

Surgery Tech

Grass Valley, CA · On-site

$36.80 - $44.86/hr

Vocational School Grad Satisfactory completion of surgical technician training program * 1-3 years one year of surgical tech experience or other military equivalent. May substituted if the candidate ...

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All JobsNew Grad Surgical Tech JobsNew Grad Surgical Tech Jobs in California

New Grad Surgical Tech information

See California salary details

$711

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$2.9K

How much do new grad surgical tech jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average weekly pay for new grad surgical tech in California is $1,857.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,384.62 and $2,276.92 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a new grad surgical tech?

New Grad Surgical Techs are recent graduates from accredited surgical technology programs who assist surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff in operating rooms. They are responsible for preparing surgical instruments, maintaining a sterile environment, and passing instruments during procedures. As new graduates, they are typically in their first professional role and may work under the supervision of more experienced surgical technologists. Their training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience to ensure patient safety and proper surgical support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a new grad surgical tech?

To thrive as a New Grad Surgical Tech, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and anatomy, typically acquired through an accredited surgical technology program and certification (such as CST). Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room protocols, and electronic medical record (EMR) systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure patient safety, support surgeons efficiently, and maintain a smooth surgical workflow.

What are some common challenges new grad surgical techs face during their first year on the job?

New grad surgical techs often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced and high-pressure environment of the operating room, learning to anticipate the needs of surgeons, and mastering a wide range of surgical instruments and procedures. Building confidence in sterile technique and communication with the surgical team is also crucial. Over time, mentorship from experienced colleagues and proactive learning help new grads overcome these hurdles and become more efficient and effective in their roles.

What is the difference between New Grad Surgical Tech vs Surgical Tech?

AspectNew Grad Surgical TechSurgical Tech
CertificationsCPR, Surgical Tech Certification (CST)CPR, Surgical Tech Certification (CST)
ExperienceEntry-level, recent graduateTypically 1+ years of experience
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient clinicsHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting in surgeries, preparing operating rooms, passing instrumentsAssisting in surgeries, preparing operating rooms, passing instruments

The main difference between a New Grad Surgical Tech and a Surgical Tech is experience level. New grads are just starting their careers with minimal hands-on experience, focusing on learning and skill development. Experienced Surgical Techs have more practice and may handle more complex procedures. Both roles work in similar environments and require the same certifications, but the New Grad role emphasizes training and growth opportunities.

Can you be a new grad surgical tech with no experience?

New graduate surgical technologists can often start their careers with little to no prior experience, as many employers provide on-the-job training and require certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). However, having clinical externship or internship experience can improve job prospects, and strong knowledge of sterile techniques and surgical procedures is essential. Certification and a solid understanding of operating room protocols are typically necessary to qualify for entry-level surgical tech positions.

Is it hard to get hired as a new grad surgical tech?

Getting hired as a new grad surgical tech can be competitive, as many employers prefer candidates with some clinical experience or certification. Strong technical skills, such as knowledge of surgical instruments and sterilization procedures, along with a relevant certification like CST, can improve job prospects. Entry-level positions may require persistence and networking within healthcare facilities.

What are popular job titles related to New Grad Surgical Tech jobs in California?

For New Grad Surgical Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching New Grad Surgical Tech jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for New Grad Surgical Tech jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for New Grad Surgical Tech jobs?

Cities in California with the most New Grad Surgical Tech job openings:

New Grad Surgical Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various New Grad Surgical Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,598 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Surgery Tech

Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital

Grass Valley, CA

$36.80 - $44.86/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Surgical Tech, you will help prepare the operating room and surgical team so they can successfully perform a variety of surgical procedures for patients.
Every day you will set up surgical equipment and instruments, assist the surgical team, and ensure a sterile environment. You will be expected to adapt quickly, collaborate effectively within the OR team, and contribute directly to the patient's healing process.
To be successful in this role, you must possess adaptability, a strong team-player mindset, and enthusiasm for supporting complex surgical procedures.

  • Prepares and assembles operating room with appropriate instruments, supplies and equipment necessary for individual procedures.
  • Utilizes the surgeons' preference cards to ensure availability of appropriate equipment and supplies.
  • Follows standard of practice relating to sterilization of equipment, gowning, gloving and opening of sterile supplies.
  • Assists in draping of patient for procedure.
  • Maintains an orderly instrument table and/or mayo tray for the purpose of efficiency.
  • Anticipates equipment/supplies needed by surgeon/assist intraoperatively.
Job Requirements

Required

  • Vocational School Grad Satisfactory completion of surgical technician training program
  • 1-3 years one year of surgical tech experience or other military equivalent.
    • May substituted if the candidate has completed an ORT externship on-site within the last year.
  • American Heart Association Basic Life Support


Preferred

  • 1-3 years acute care experience.
  • Certified Surgical Technologist
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1958, Dignity Health - Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital is a 104-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Grass Valley, California. Serving over 80,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including heart care, cancer care, women’s health, and neurology. Additionally, Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital, has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and is a Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Center. It has been named a Top Rural Hospital by The Leapfrog Group for three consecutive years, one of only 16 rural hospitals in the US to achieve this award.

One Community. One Mission. One California 

Qualifications:

Required

  • Vocational School Grad Satisfactory completion of surgical technician training program
  • 1-3 years one year of surgical tech experience or other military equivalent.
    • May substituted if the candidate has completed an ORT externship on-site within the last year.
  • American Heart Association Basic Life Support


Preferred

  • 1-3 years acute care experience.
  • Certified Surgical Technologist
Employment Type: PRN

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