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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program Jobs in Portland, OR

Glassblower Apprentice

Portland, OR · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

... technology. As a Glassblower Apprentice , you will follow our Glassblower Apprentice program to learn and perform routine scientific quartz glass-working tasks. The duration of this program is ...

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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$20

$29

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech apprentice program in Portland, OR is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $22.45 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 Portland, OR? For Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Surgical Tech Apprentice Program job openings:
Infographic showing various Surgical Tech Apprentice Program job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $42,704 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Surgical Services Technologist (Surgical Tech)

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview

South Operating Room (SOR) is a large 25-bed OR primarily an adult inpatient operating room with a small volume of outpatient procedures including: Cardiac/ Thoracic, General Surgery/Minimally Invasive/ Colorectal/Bariatric, Gynecology, Oral Maxillofacial, Neuro/neuro spine, Orthopedic/orthopedic spine, Otolaryngology, Plastics, Transplant, Urology, Vascular, Robotic (Urology/GYN/Oral), and Trauma. Surgical procedures on infants and children less than 18 years of age are also performed if the procedure requires specialized equipment found only at this location.

The ST performs the delegated duties that ensure that the OR environment is safe, that equipment is cleaned and functions appropriately, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety. The ST possesses expertise in the application of sterile and aseptic technique; he/she combines the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tools and technologies to safely facilitate invasive and/or diagnostic procedures. The ST has the ability to manage stressful/unusual situations in a positive manner, and embraces the OHSU Core Competencies (Accountability, Collaboration, Communication, Diversity, Integrity, Respect, Service Orientation, Teamwork) into his/her practice.

Function/Duties of Position

Surgical Technician Role Expectations:

  • Demonstrate Proficiency in clinical skills/knowledge specific to  Perioperative Services.
    • Demonstrates a working knowledge of sterile technique.
    • Proficient in the scrub role in the surgical specialties. 
    • Provides fundamental components of patient comfort, safety, privacy and respect within the perioperative setting.
    • Identifies and develops areas of expertise within the surgical specialties.
    • Demonstrates working knowledge of equipment, instrumentation, and supplies.
  • Performs effectively in emergent situations.
    • Recognizes and effectively responds as directed in emergency situations.
    • CPR certified..
    • Responds appropriately as directed in a code situation.
  • Manages time effectively.
    • Accomplishes caseload assignments in a timely manner.Completes turnover of the operating room between cases before or within the established time lines.
  • Uses unassigned time productively

Communication, Teamwork, and Leadership:

  • Demonstrates effective communication skills, which convey a positive and supportive message.
  • Collaborates with surgical team members (nursing, anesthesia and surgeon) on specific issues or concerns.
  • Seeks input and consultation.
  • Reports incidents and errors verbally and in writing in accordance with established procedures.
  • Ensures confidentiality is maintained in all forms of communication.
  • Demonstrates flexibility in response to unexpected changes in workload and assignment.
  • Incorporates conflict management skills in the resolution of issues.
  • Participates in projects and committees as requested/assigned.
  • Works collaboratively with OHSU personnel, maintaining communication that facilitates teamwork.
  • Conveys a positive image of peers, colleagues, and OHSU to patients, families, the public and other health care team members.

Teaching and Education: 

  • Participates in the education and development of others.
  • Participates in orientation and teaching of area specific skills.
  • Serves as a resource for other staff members, students, and residents.
  • Promotes staff skill development as appropriate 

Professional Development and Knowledge Base Expectations:

  • Participates in educational programs and research that contributes to the improvement of skills.
  • Assumes responsibility for development of own skills.
  • Recognizes and accepts the need for guidance and assistance.
  • Completes all required educational programs and activities within established time lines.
  • Demonstrates practice consistent with current research/standards/policies.
  • Meets and maintains minimum qualifications for the position.

Organizational Participation Responsibilities:

  • Incorporates OHSU service excellence/customer service philosophy into all aspects of care provided to patients and families and in interactions within the work setting.
  • Participates in Continuous Quality Improvement activities, incorporating principles into practice.
  • Demonstrates ability to access departmental and organizational policies and procedures.
  • Complies with organizational policies and procedures.
  • Supports the missions of OHSU Perioperative Services.
  • Complies with the OHSU Code of Conduct.
  • Demonstrates fiscally responsible resource utilization and promotes cost containment as appropriate for a surgical unit.
  • Performs staff member requirements as outlined in the compliance section of the Core Competencies.
Required Qualifications

BLS from AHA required. New hires will be enrolled and required to complete during orientation.

New Employees as of 9/1/2015

Graduated from a Nationally-Accredited organization approved by the Oregon Health Authority as of date of hire; AND 

Hold and maintain a national Surgical Technologist Certification by NBSTSA (National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting) as of date of hire. 

New provision of House Bill 4106 amending ORS 676.875 (New Employees effective March 23, 2022):

Completion of a surgical assistant or surgical technologist certification, including but not limited to a certified ophthalmic surgical assisting credential issued by the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology or its successor organization, that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies

OR

Completed a Surgical Technologist training program in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Public Health Service of the USA AND must complete 16 hours of continuing education every 2 years. 

OR

Did not graduate from an accredited school must and can provide documentation showing that he/she they practiced as a Surgical Tech during at least two of the three years immediately preceding January 1, 2017 AND must complete 16 hours of continuing education every 2 years. 

Additional Details

Requires prioritization of multiple projects, activities, and assignments. May be exposed to excessive

auditory and visual stimulation. May be exposed to body fluids, tissue, and infectious processes. Subject to

computer work for several hours, as needed. Able to utilize all patient care equipment with work area.

Employee Benefits:

  • Free parking at night
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance - Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents, and $25K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee
  • Several retirement plans (401a/403b and pension plans)
  • Vacation - up to 200 hours per year, depending on length of service
  • Sick Leave - up to 96 hours per year
  • 8 paid holidays per year
  • Substantial tri-met and c-tram discounts
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • FSA/HSA options
  • On-site gym
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Career Center
Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: OTHER

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887