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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program Jobs in Chicago, IL

Surgical Technologist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$23 - $33/hr

Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program * Certification as a Surgical Technologist (CST) preferred * Current BLS certification * Minimum 1 year of experience in a surgical setting ...

Graduation from an accredited Surgical Technology training program. * For graduates after July 1, 2009 - Certified Surgical Technologist Credentials, administered by the National Board of Surgical ...

New

Surgery Tech

Munster, IN · On-site

$25 - $38.84/hr

Graduation from an accredited Surgical Technology training program. * For graduates after July 1, 2009 - Certified Surgical Technologist Credentials, administered by the National Board of Surgical ...

New

Surgical Tech

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Job Summary: A Certified Surgical Technician at Vista Health performs a critical role in the ... Participate in staff meetings, educational programs, and in-service activities to enhance job ...

Surgical Tech

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Job Summary: A Certified Surgical Technician at Vista Health performs a critical role in the ... Participate in staff meetings, educational programs, and in-service activities to enhance job ...

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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$19

$28

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

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech apprentice program in Chicago, IL is $19.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs in Chicago, IL? For Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Surgical Tech Apprentice Program job openings:
Infographic showing various Surgical Tech Apprentice Program job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,482 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Surgical Tech Certified - Naperville Surgical Centre

Surgical Tech Certified - Naperville Surgical Centre

SCA Health

Naperville, IL • On-site

$25 - $36/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


SCA Health rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 886 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

At SCA Health, we believe health care is about people – the patients we serve, the physicians we support and the teammates who push us forward. Behind every successful facility, procedure or innovation is a team of 15,000+ professionals working together, learning from each other and living out the mission, vision and values that define our organization. 

As part of Optum, SCA Health is redefining specialty care by developing more accessible, patient-centered practice solutions for a network of more than 370 ambulatory surgical centers, over 400 specialty physician practice clinics and numerous labs and surgical hospitals. Our work spans a broad spectrum of services, all designed to support physicians, health systems and employers in delivering efficient, value-based care to patients without compromising quality or autonomy.  

What sets SCA Health apart isn’t just what we do, it’s how we do it. Each decision we make is rooted in seven core values

  • Clinical quality 
  • Integrity 
  • Service excellence 
  • Teamwork 
  • Accountability 
  • Continuous improvement 
  • Inclusion 

Our values aren’t empty words – they inform our attitudes, actions and culture. At SCA Health, your work directly impacts patients, physicians and communities. Here, you’ll find opportunities to build your career alongside a team that values your expertise, invests in your success, and shares a common mission to care for patients, serve physicians and improve health care in America.    

At SCA Health, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your health, well-being, and financial future. Our offerings include medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k plan with company match, paid time off, life and disability insurance, and more. Please visit, https://careers.sca.health/why-sca, to learn more about our benefits.

Your ideas should inspire change. If you join our team, they will


Responsibilities

We are actively hiring for a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). 

Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Responsibilities: 

  • Function as a scrub person during operative and other invasive procedures.
  • Clean and prepare surgical instruments for processing and transport them to the decontamination areas.  
  • Assist with post procedure cleaning of the operative or other invasive procedure room and preparation of room for subsequent patients. 
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.  

Qualifications

Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Requirements:

  • High School Graduate or equivalent. 
  • Graduate of a recognized and accredited Surgical Technologist Program.   
  • Prior Experience as a Surgical Technologist preferred.   
  • Current Surgical Technologist certification preferred.   
  • Successful completion of BLS Course within 90 days of employment or documentation of current BLS certification. 
USD $25.00/Hr. USD $36.00/Hr.Qualifications:

Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Requirements:

  • High School Graduate or equivalent. 
  • Graduate of a recognized and accredited Surgical Technologist Program.   
  • Prior Experience as a Surgical Technologist preferred.   
  • Current Surgical Technologist certification preferred.   
  • Successful completion of BLS Course within 90 days of employment or documentation of current BLS certification. 
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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