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Surgical Instrument Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surgical Instrument Maker information

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$13

$20

$36

How much do surgical instrument maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical instrument maker in the United States is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Surgical Instrument Makers?

Surgical Instrument Makers are skilled professionals who design, manufacture, maintain, and repair the specialized tools and instruments used in surgical procedures. They work with a variety of materials, such as stainless steel and titanium, to create precise and durable instruments that meet strict medical standards. Their expertise is essential to ensure that surgeons have reliable and sterile tools during operations, which can directly impact patient outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surgical Instrument Maker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical Instrument Maker, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a background in precision machining or metalworking, usually supported by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with specialized tools such as lathes, milling machines, and quality control systems, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is crucial. Keen problem-solving abilities, meticulousness, and effective communication skills help ensure accuracy and collaboration within production teams. These skills and qualities are vital for producing high-quality surgical instruments that meet strict safety and performance standards required in medical settings.

What is the difference between Surgical Instrument Maker vs Surgical Instrument Repair Technician?

AspectSurgical Instrument MakerSurgical Instrument Repair Technician
CredentialsTechnical training, certifications in instrument manufacturingTechnical training, certifications in repair and maintenance
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, workshopsHospitals, repair shops, service centers
Employer & IndustryMedical device manufacturers, surgical instrument companiesHospitals, surgical centers, medical equipment service providers
Common Search IntentCreating new surgical instrumentsRepairing and maintaining existing instruments

The main difference is that Surgical Instrument Makers focus on designing and manufacturing new surgical instruments, while Surgical Instrument Repair Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining existing instruments. Both roles require technical skills and certifications but serve different stages in the instrument lifecycle.

What are some common challenges faced by surgical instrument makers, and how can they be overcome?

Surgical instrument makers often face challenges such as maintaining extreme precision, adhering to strict quality standards, and working with delicate or specialized materials. Meeting tight deadlines while ensuring that every instrument meets rigorous regulatory and safety requirements can also be demanding. These challenges can be managed by developing strong attention to detail, staying updated on industry standards, and collaborating closely with quality assurance teams. Additionally, continuous skill development and embracing new manufacturing technologies can help surgical instrument makers excel in their roles.
What cities are hiring for Surgical Instrument Maker jobs? Cities with the most Surgical Instrument Maker job openings:
What states have the most Surgical Instrument Maker jobs? States with the most job openings for Surgical Instrument Maker jobs include:
Team Leader, Surgical Instrument Maker - 2nd Shift

Team Leader, Surgical Instrument Maker - 2nd Shift

Steris Corporation

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


STERIS rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 881 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Summary
As a Surgical Instrument Maker you will be responsible for overseeing the production and quality of surgical instruments and provides hands-on technical expertise and leadership to the instrument-making team. This role ensures that all instruments meet strict regulatory and performance standards and supports continuous improvement, training, and cross-department collaboration.
Shift: Shift: 3:00pm-1:30am Monday-Thursday
What you will do as a Surgical Instrument Maker Team Leader
Lead daily operations of the surgical instrument manufacturing team, ensuring production goals and quality standards are met.
Fabricate, assemble, and inspect complex surgical instruments with a high degree of precision.
Distribute & Assign work to operators under the cell Lead's responsibility.
Collaborate with the supervisor to ensure all orders are prioritized, picked, and filled on time.
Follows up on the NCMRs and supports all quality initiatives on the floor, ensuring operators' adherence to all quality policies.
Document production numbers and ensure each instrument maker fills out their labor tracking sheets.
Ensures Tier 1 meetings are held on time at the specified frequency, ensuring participation from the entire group.
Ensures that 5S is active and all requirements are met by assigned cells/departments.
In the absence of the supervisor, keep production on track and communicate effectively with staff
Serve as the primary technical resource for resolving complex manufacturing issues.
Train, mentor, and support junior and mid-level instrument makers.
Collaborate with engineering, quality, and R&D teams on new product development and process improvements.
Monitor workflow, prioritize tasks, and ensure compliance with ISO, FDA, and internal quality systems.
Maintain accurate documentation of production activities, inspections, and process changes.
Ability to perform computer transactions and prepare routine administrative paperwork.
Operates and adheres to general plant rules and policies governing workplace conduct, performance, EH&S policies, and good documentation practices.
Interpret and troubleshoot technical drawings, specifications, and CAD models.
Other duties as assigned.
The Experience, Skills and Abilities
Required:
Minimum of 3 years of experience in surgical instrument manufacturing or precision machining. Computer skills: proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
Proven leadership experience in a manufacturing or technical environment.
Expert-level proficiency in grinding, polishing, assembly, and inspection of surgical instruments.
Strong understanding of surgical instrument design, function, and medical-grade materials.
High school diploma or GED
Other:
Experience with machining and CAD/CAM software.
Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and sterile manufacturing environments.
Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
Associate degree or technical certification preferred.
Listening, self-motivated, sense of urgency, interpersonal skills, adaptability/flexibility, creativity/innovation, and ability to take initiative to get things done.
What STERIS Offers
We Value our employees and are committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package that supports your heath, well-being, and financial future.
Here is just a brief overview of what we offer:
  • Market Competitive Pay
  • Extensive Paid Time Off and (9) added holidays
  • Long/short Term disability coverage
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Maternity & Paternal Leave
  • Additional add-ons benefits/discounts for programs such as Pet Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement and continues educations programs
  • Excellent opportunities for advancement and stable long-term career

Pay range for this opportunity is $23 - 28 an hour. This position is eligible for bonus participation.
Minimum pay rates offered will comply with county/city minimums, if higher than range listed. Pay rates are based on a number of factors, including but not limited to local labor market costs, years of relevant experience, education, professional certifications, foreign language fluency, etc.
STERIS offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits portfolio. Click here for a complete list of benefits: STERIS Benefits
Open until position is filled.
STERIS is a leading global provider of products and services that support patient care with an emphasis on infection prevention. WE HELP OUR CUSTOMERS CREATE A HEALTHIER AND SAFER WORLD by providing innovative healthcare and life sciences products and services around the globe. For more information, visit www.steris.com.
If you need assistance completing the application process, please call 1 (440) 392.7047. This contact information is for accommodation inquiries only and cannot be used to check application status.
STERIS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity to ensure that persons are recruited, hired, trained, transferred and promoted in all job groups regardless of race, color, religion, age, disability, national origin, citizenship status, military or veteran status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal, state or local law. We are not only committed to this policy by our status as a federal government contractor, but also we are strongly bound by the principle of equal employment opportunity.
The full affirmative action program, absent the data metrics required by § 60-741.44(k), shall be available to all employees and applicants for employment for inspection upon request. The program may be obtained at your location's HR Office during normal business hours.

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