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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program Jobs in Tampa, FL

Successful completion of: • Surgical Technology training program; or • Orlando Health training program Licensure/Certification: Maintains current BLS/HealthCare Provider certification. Experience:

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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program information

See Tampa, FL salary details

$10

$18

$26

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech apprentice program in Tampa, FL is $18.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $20.00 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 Tampa, FL are hiring for Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs?

Cities near Tampa, FL with the most Surgical Tech Apprentice Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Tech Apprentice Program job openings in Tampa, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,054 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Lead Surgical Tech-Open Heart

Brooksville, FL


Tampa General Hospital
Hospitals • 5 - 10K employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 162 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

387th of 1,064 rated hospitals

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Surgical Tech 4 Team Lead to oversee the surgical tech team in an operating room environment. A Surgical Tech 4 Team Lead will demonstrate advanced technical skills, leadership abilities, and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care. The Team Lead will be responsible for mentoring team members and ensuring the efficient functioning of the surgical services department. Will assists with cleaning, restocking and processing of the surgical suite, instruments and equipment as needed.

 
 

Education

  • Technical Program Surgical Technologist Program

Certification

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) through American Red Cross or American Heart Association
  • Certified Surgical Technologist Certification through National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or Association of Surgical Technologist (AST) or National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)

Work Experience 

  • Minimum Five (5) years of experience in a Surgical Tech position
  • CVOR experience preferred

Tampa General Hospital logo

About Tampa General Hospital

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Tampa General Hospital was named the #1 hospital in Tampa Bay by U.S. News & World Report, 2020-2021, and recognized as one of America's Best Hospital's in five medical specialties: Cardiology & Heart Surgery, Diabetes & Endocrinology, Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Nephrology, and Orthopedics. Tampa General Hospital has been designated a Magnet Hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the highest recognition for nursing excellence, for the fourth consecutive time - an accomplishment that fewer than one percent of hospitals nationwide have earned. TGH is accredited by The Joint Commission and was awarded disease-specific certification in five medical specialties. TGH is also accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). *Air transport provided by Metro Aviation, Inc.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

1927


What Tampa General Hospital employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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