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Operating Room Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Operating Room Tech

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Must have completed a Surgical Technology course in Operating Room technique and is able to furnish a record indicating the hours of instruction in basic sciences and aseptic technique required or is ...

Insight

Operating Room Tech

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Must have completed a Surgical Technology course in Operating Room technique and is able to furnish a record indicating the hours of instruction in basic sciences and aseptic technique required or is ...

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Operating Room Tech information

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$634

$1.7K

$2.5K

How much do operating room tech jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average weekly pay for operating room tech in the United States is $1,696.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,355.77 and $2,028.85 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an Operating Room Tech typically collaborate with surgeons and nurses during surgical procedures?

Operating Room Techs, also known as surgical technologists, play a crucial role in the surgical team by ensuring all necessary instruments and supplies are sterile and readily available. They work closely with surgeons by passing instruments, holding retractors, and anticipating the needs of the procedure. Collaboration with nurses is also essential, as techs assist in preparing the operating room and maintaining a sterile field throughout the surgery. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as Operating Room Techs help ensure surgeries proceed smoothly and safely for patients.

What do operating room technicians do?

Operating room technicians, also known as surgical technologists, prepare operating rooms by sterilizing equipment, setting up surgical instruments, and ensuring a sterile environment. They assist surgeons and nurses during procedures, passing instruments and maintaining supplies, often working in fast-paced hospital settings and requiring certification. Their role is essential for smooth surgical operations and patient safety.

How much do operating room technicians make in the US?

Operating room technicians, also known as surgical technologists, earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 in the US. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, certifications, and work setting, with some earning over $70,000 annually. They typically work in hospitals, surgical centers, or clinics and need certification to enhance job prospects.

What kind of surgical tech gets paid the most?

In the operating room, surgical technologists specializing in cardiovascular or neurosurgery tend to earn higher salaries due to the complexity and critical nature of these procedures. Additionally, those with advanced certifications, extensive experience, or working in high-demand healthcare facilities often receive higher pay. Salary can also vary based on geographic location and shift differentials.

What are Operating Room Techs?

Operating Room Techs, also known as surgical technologists or scrub techs, are healthcare professionals who assist surgeons, nurses, and other members of the surgical team during operations. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and ensuring all necessary equipment is available. During procedures, they help by passing instruments and maintaining a sterile environment. Their work is essential for the safety and efficiency of surgical operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operating Room Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Room Tech, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and anatomy, typically gained through a surgical technology program and certification (such as CST). Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterilization equipment, and electronic health record systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical workflows, and effective collaboration with surgeons and nurses during operations.

Is surgical tech harder than RN?

Operating Room Techs, or surgical technologists, typically require less education and training than registered nurses (RNs), and their roles focus on preparing the operating room and assisting during surgeries. RNs have broader responsibilities, including patient care, medication administration, and post-operative monitoring, which often involve more complex decision-making and a wider skill set. Overall, RNs generally face a more demanding workload and higher level of responsibility than surgical techs.

What is the difference between Operating Room Tech vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectOperating Room TechSurgical Technologist
CertificationsCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) often preferredCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) typically required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgery centers, clinics
Job DutiesAssisting in surgeries, preparing operating roomsPreparing OR, passing instruments, assisting during procedures
Industry UsageCommonly used term in hospitals and healthcare settingsOften used interchangeably with Operating Room Tech

Both Operating Room Tech and Surgical Technologist roles involve assisting in surgeries and preparing operating rooms. The terms are often used interchangeably, with Surgical Technologist being the more formal credential. Certification requirements are similar, and both work in hospital and surgical center environments. Understanding these similarities can help in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Operating Room Tech jobs
What cities are hiring for Operating Room Tech jobs? Cities with the most Operating Room Tech job openings:
What states have the most Operating Room Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Operating Room Tech jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Room Tech jobs? For Operating Room Tech jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Operating Room Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Room Tech job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,193 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Operating Room Tech

Operating Room Tech

Berkshire Health Systems

Pittsfield, MA • On-site

$27.61/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Berkshire Health Systems rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

  • DEFINITION/PRIMARY FUNCTION
    • The Operating Room Tech is a paraprofessional qualified by a didactic and clinical training to provide Services in the Operating Room under the supervision and responsibility of the Operating Room Director and RN circulatory nurses or their designee. As part of the Operating Room Team, the tech responsible for the technical aspects of the patient's surgical intervention. The Operating Room Tech and Circulating Nurse work as a team as the surgical patients advocate.
  • POSITION QUALIFICATIONS (Minimum qualifications are required unless stated otherwise.)
    • Experience:
      • Knowledge and application of surgical aseptic technique required.
      • Familiarity with basic surgical procedures, instruments, equipment, physiology, microbiology, anatomy and psychological process required.
      • Recent experience in Operating Room technology.
    • Education and Training:
      • High school diploma required; Associate degree preferred.
    • License, Certification & Registration:
      • LPNCST - 1 of LPN or CST
      • Certified in Basic Life Support required.
    • Other Requirements:
      • Has verbal ability to use and understand medical terminology to fulfill quickly and accurately Surgeons and Nurses instructions.
      • Assignments will rotate between Crane and Main OR
      • Rotation on-call system participation required.
      • Must be willing to float to other organizational locations for which the colleague has received training.
      • Ability to anticipate and meet the needs of the Surgical Team required.
      • Ability to meet the needs of the patients for safety, comfort, and reassurance required.
      • Capable of rapid and accurate movements of body and hands in response to visual and audio stimuli.
      • Able to perform a variety of duties in the Operating Room under supervision of the Registered Nurse.
      • Maintain competency in all surgical equipment as required.
      • Knowledge and application of surgical aseptic technique
      • Ability to perform effectively in stressful and emergency situations
      • Demonstrated professional communication with all internal and external contacts

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