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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Associate Degree or Certificate of Program Completion in Surgical Technology: Required Relevant acute care experience: Preferred Licenses/Certifications: National Board of Surgical Technologists or ...

Surgical Tech II Certified

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$33.84 - $42.28/hr

Graduation of an accredited Surgical Technology program, completion of a Surgical Tech Certification Program. and two years experience is required. * Certified Surgical Technologist, upon hire

Associate Degree or Certificate of Program Completion in Surgical Technology: Required Relevant acute care experience: Preferred Licenses/Certifications: National Board of Surgical Technologists or ...

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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$11

$20

$29

How much do surgical tech apprentice program jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech apprentice program in Bakersfield, CA is $20.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical tech apprentice program?

A Surgical Tech Apprentice Program is a structured training initiative designed to prepare individuals for a career as a surgical technologist. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience, apprentices learn essential skills such as sterilizing equipment, preparing operating rooms, and assisting surgeons during procedures. These programs typically allow participants to earn while they learn, gradually increasing their responsibilities under the supervision of experienced professionals. Upon completion, apprentices are often eligible to take certification exams and transition into full-time surgical tech roles.

What can I expect from the mentorship and training structure in a surgical tech apprentice program?

Surgical Tech Apprentice Programs typically offer a structured blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experience in the operating room, under the supervision of experienced surgical technologists and surgeons. Apprentices are often paired with mentors who provide guidance, feedback, and support throughout each phase of the program. You can expect to rotate through various surgical specialties, participate directly in patient care, and gradually take on more responsibilities as your skills develop. Regular evaluations and close teamwork with nurses, anesthesiologists, and physicians are common, offering valuable opportunities for learning and professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical tech apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical Tech Apprentice, you need a foundational understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and anatomy, usually gained through a high school diploma and enrollment in an accredited surgical technology program. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterilization equipment, and electronic medical record systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure patient safety, support efficient surgical workflows, and contribute to positive surgical outcomes.

What is the difference between Surgical Tech Apprentice Program vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgical Tech Apprentice ProgramSurgical Technologist
CredentialsOn-the-job training, often requires enrollment in a programCertification or diploma, such as Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, under supervisionHospitals, outpatient clinics, surgical facilities
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs offered by hospitals or training institutionsCertified professionals employed across healthcare settings
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry pathways into surgical tech rolesUnderstanding certification and career progression

The Surgical Tech Apprentice Program provides hands-on training for individuals starting in surgical technology, often without requiring prior certification. In contrast, Surgical Technologists are certified professionals who have completed formal education and certification exams. The apprentice program is ideal for gaining practical experience, while the technologist role emphasizes certification and independent work in surgical settings.

What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs?

Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Surgical Tech Apprentice Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Tech Apprentice Program job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,644 per year, or $20 per hour.

Surgical Tech II Certified

Mercy Hospital Of Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA โ€ข On-site

$33.84 - $42.28/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Prepare the operating room and surgical team by setting up surgical equipment and instruments.

  • Assist the surgical team during procedures and ensure a sterile environment.

  • Adhere to infection control principles and maintain aseptic techniques throughout surgical procedures.


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.

  • Maintains a safe, therapeutic work environment at all times and identifies and addresses problems to the appropriate departments.
  • Adheres to the principles of infection control, including medical and surgical asepsis and isolation techniques. Demonstrates aseptic technique when required in the performance of job duties.
  • Demonstrates awareness of professional responsibility by being a role model for peers while maintaining practice within The Patient's Bill of Rights and DH Core Values.
  • Adheres to DH standards and Behaviors by promoting teamwork and a positive work environment, model cooperative behavior and act in a professional manner and uses effective lines of communication.
  • Participates in problem solving processes in which unit based problems are identified and a plan is made and implemented foe correction.
  • Functions as an effective resource for peers and other staff.
Job Requirements

Required

  • High School Graduate/ GEDย  orย two years equivalent work experience
  • For Surgical Techs that began working as a Surgical Techs after 1997:ย  Graduation of an accredited Surgical Technology program, completion of a Surgical Tech Certification Program. and two years experience is required.
  • Certified Surgical Technologist, upon hireย 
  • Technologist in Surgery-Certified, upon hire
  • AHA Basic Life Support - CPR


Preferred

  • 5 years experience in the related field.
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1910, Dignity Health - Mercy Hospital is a 229-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Bakersfield, California. Serving nearly 90,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including Level II NICU, cancer care, womenโ€™s health, and orthopedics. Additionally, Mercy Hospital Downtown & Mercy Hospital Southwest have been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. They are both Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Centers. Mercy Hospital Downtown offers the only inpatient Oncology Unit in Bakersfield while Mercy Hospital Southwest has the only Obstetric Emergency Department in Bakersfield.

One Community. One Mission. One Californiaย 

Qualifications:

Required

  • High School Graduate/ GEDย  orย two years equivalent work experience
  • For Surgical Techs that began working as a Surgical Techs after 1997:ย  Graduation of an accredited Surgical Technology program, completion of a Surgical Tech Certification Program. and two years experience is required.
  • Certified Surgical Technologist, upon hireย 
  • Technologist in Surgery-Certified, upon hire
  • AHA Basic Life Support - CPR


Preferred

  • 5 years experience in the related field.
Employment Type: Seasonal/Casual/OnCall/Supplemental