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Surgical Tech Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ophthalmic Technician

Oak Lawn, IL ยท On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

Assists physicians in minor office surgery. * Administers medications as directed by ... Serves as instructor to staff when necessary in clinic routine and in standard ophthalmic ...

You'll participate in surgery and dental procedures, run your own appointments with assistants, and ... Use innovative technologies , new medical equipment, and more as you pilot clinic tools that have ...

The RN II position demonstrates clinical competence when providing care, using technology ... BLS - Basic Life Support or Instructor (AHA) - American Heart Association Preferred * Magnet - ANCC ...

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Surgical Tech Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19

$35

$54

How much do surgical tech instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech instructor in Chicago, IL is $35.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.68 and $38.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a surgical tech instructor do?

A Surgical Tech Instructor is responsible for teaching and training students who are pursuing a career as surgical technologists. They develop instructional materials, deliver lectures, and provide hands-on training in simulated or clinical environments. Instructors also assess student performance, ensure adherence to safety and ethical standards, and help students prepare for certification exams. Their goal is to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to work effectively in operating rooms alongside surgeons and medical teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical tech instructor?

To thrive as a Surgical Tech Instructor, you need an in-depth knowledge of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and a background as a certified surgical technologist, often supported by teaching credentials or relevant educational experience. Familiarity with simulation technology, electronic learning platforms, and accreditation standards is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and mentorship abilities help instructors effectively guide and inspire students. These skills ensure graduates are well-prepared for the operating room and uphold high standards of patient care and safety.

What are some common challenges surgical tech instructors face when transitioning from clinical practice to teaching?

Surgical Tech Instructors often find that moving from a hands-on clinical environment to the classroom requires adapting their communication style and learning new teaching methodologies. One common challenge is translating complex surgical procedures into clear, understandable lessons for students with varying experience levels. Additionally, instructors must stay current with evolving surgical technologies and best practices to provide the most relevant training. Balancing administrative tasks, curriculum development, and student mentorship can also be demanding, but many find the role highly rewarding as they help shape the next generation of surgical technologists.

What is the difference between Surgical Tech Instructor vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgical Tech InstructorSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertification (CST), teaching credentials often preferredCertification (CST), on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentClassroom, clinical labs, training facilitiesHospitals, surgical centers, clinics
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, training programsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers
Primary FocusTeaching surgical tech skills and knowledgeAssisting in surgical procedures, preparing operating rooms

In summary, Surgical Tech Instructors focus on educating and training future surgical technologists, often working in classrooms and labs, while Surgical Technologists work directly in surgical settings assisting during procedures. Both roles require certification, but their work environments and primary responsibilities differ significantly.

How to become a surgical tech instructor?

To become a surgical tech instructor, you typically need to have experience as a certified surgical technologist, hold certification such as the CST, and obtain a teaching credential or instructor certification if required. Many programs also prefer candidates with teaching experience or advanced knowledge of surgical procedures and sterile techniques. Gaining experience in the operating room and staying current with industry standards are essential steps.

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical Tech Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Surgical Tech Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Surgical Tech Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Surgical Tech Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Surgical Tech Instructor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Surgical Tech Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Tech Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,757 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Ophthalmic Technician

Family Eye Physicians

Oak Lawn, IL โ€ข On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Ophthalmic Technician
Department: Clinic
Reports to: Clinic Manager
Ophthalmic Technician Responsibilities:
  • Assists ophthalmologists in treatment and care of patients by performing variety of technical duties.
  • Obtains medical histories of patients
  • Tests ocular functions, including distance and near visual acuity, color vision, muscle balance, intra-ocular tension, auto refraction, retinoscopy, and lensometry (reading spectacles).
  • Fits all types of contact lenses using keratometer; instructs patients in care and insertion of lenses.
  • Assists physicians in minor office surgery.
  • Administers medications as directed by ophthalmologists; changes dressings and instructs patients in home care.
  • Maintains inventory of consumable supplies, medications, and small instruments.
  • Maintains ophthalmic instruments, such as visual acuity projectors, direct and indirect ophthalmoscopes, retinoscopes, muscle lights, etc. by cleaning exposed lenses, mirrors, prisms, and replacing burned out bulbs.
  • Serves as instructor to staff when necessary in clinic routine and in standard ophthalmic procedures.

Ophthalmic Technician Qualifications:
  • High school graduation or equivalent plus 2 years of relevant work experience in Ophthalmology
  • Successful completion of accredited ophthalmic medical assistant program, helpful but not required
  • Certification as Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist by Joint Commission of Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO), helpful but not required