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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Surgical Tech Apprentice Program information

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

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech apprentice program in the United States is $19.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which pays more, CNA or surgical tech?

Surgical techs generally earn higher wages than CNAs because they require specialized training and certification, and work in more complex surgical environments. CNAs typically have lower starting salaries and less advanced training but are essential in patient care settings. Salary differences can vary based on location, experience, and healthcare facility.

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 other jobs can I get as a surgical tech?

Surgical techs can transition into roles such as surgical first assistants, operating room supervisors, or sterile processing technicians. Additional opportunities include healthcare support roles like patient care technician or medical equipment technician, often requiring relevant certifications and experience in sterile environments.

What is a surgical tech apprentice?

A surgical tech apprentice is a trainee in a program designed to teach individuals the skills needed to assist in surgical procedures. The program typically combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience in the operating room, often leading to certification as a surgical technologist upon completion.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship program?

Surgical Tech Apprentice Programs typically offer competitive wages, with pay increasing as skills and experience grow. While salaries vary by location and facility, some programs in specialized or high-demand healthcare settings tend to pay higher wages for apprenticeships. Certification and hands-on training are key components of earning potential in this field.

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 cities are hiring for Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs? Cities with the most Surgical Tech Apprentice Program job openings:
What states have the most Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs? States with the most job openings for Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical Tech Apprentice Program jobs are:
OB Tech WOW, Weekends

OB Tech WOW, Weekends

Norton Healthcare

Louisville, KY • On-site

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Norton Healthcare rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 182 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

256th of 873 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Responsibilities
The OB Technician assists other members of the healthcare team in the delivery of patient care during the intra-operative period. The major focus for this position is on assisting at the time of vaginal and or cesarean deliveries under the supervision of the physicians and registered nurses. The OB technician may help set up the operating room, prepare and transport patients for surgery, adjust lights and equipment, pass instruments and other supplies to surgeons and surgeon's assistants, hold retractors, and help count sponges, needles, supplies and instruments. This individual must also have basic knowledge of medical terminology, the metric system and aseptic technique, and apply this knowledge in all patient and family interactions.
Qualifications
Required:
  • One year as a surgical tech or completion of a surgical tech program or completion of a surgical tech apprentice program
  • Diploma Or one year of surgical tech experience or successful completion of a Surgical Tech Apprentice Program

Desired:
  • One year in an operating room setting

What Norton Healthcare employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About Norton Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Norton Healthcare is a not-for-profit hospital and health care system and is Louisville's second largest employer, with more than 18,000 employees, over 1,700 employed medical providers and approximately 2,000 total physicians on its medical staff. The system includes six hospitals (five in Louisville and one in Madison, Indiana) with 1,993 licensed beds, eight outpatient centers, 18 Norton Immediate Care Centers, eight Norton Prompt Care at Walgreens clinics and an expanded telehealth program. It provides care at more than 340 locations throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Louisville, KY, US

Year founded

1988