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Surgical Tech Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Surgical Tech Intern information

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How much do surgical tech intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech intern in California is $17.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical tech intern?

Surgical Tech Interns are students or recent graduates who are completing hands-on training in a clinical setting, working under the supervision of experienced surgical technologists and surgical teams. Their main responsibilities include preparing operating rooms, arranging surgical instruments, assisting during procedures, and maintaining a sterile environment. Internships are typically part of an accredited surgical technology program and provide valuable real-world experience before full certification and employment. This role helps interns develop the skills and confidence needed for a successful career as a surgical technologist.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical tech intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical Tech Intern, you need foundational knowledge of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and basic medical terminology, typically obtained through an accredited surgical technology program or related coursework. Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room equipment, and adherence to infection control protocols are essential, with certification like the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) being advantageous. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities ensure patient safety, smooth surgical operations, and effective support for surgical teams.

What are some common challenges faced by surgical tech interns during their internship, and how can they be addressed?

Surgical Tech Interns often face challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced operating room environment, mastering sterile techniques, and effectively communicating with surgical teams. It's normal to feel overwhelmed initially, but seeking guidance from mentors, asking questions, and staying organized can help ease the transition. Building strong relationships with nurses, surgeons, and fellow techs also fosters teamwork and boosts confidence, making it easier to handle unexpected situations and learn on the job.

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

AspectSurgical Tech InternSurgical Technologist
CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recently completed a surgical technology programCertified or registered surgical technologists usually hold certification (CST) or registry
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, hospitals, clinics under supervisionFull-time surgical team member in operating rooms
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, surgical centers during trainingHospitals, outpatient surgical centers as a professional role
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level or internship rolesUnderstanding full professional roles and responsibilities

The main difference between a Surgical Tech Intern and a Surgical Technologist is that the intern is in training or completing their education, often working under supervision, while the technologist is a certified professional performing surgical support duties independently. Interns gain hands-on experience, whereas technologists are fully qualified practitioners in surgical settings.

Can you be a surgical tech intern with no experience?

Surgical tech internships typically require some related coursework or certification, but prior experience is not always mandatory. Interns learn on the job under supervision, gaining skills in sterile techniques, instrument handling, and assisting in surgeries. Having a basic understanding of anatomy and surgical procedures can improve chances of acceptance.

Do surgical tech interns get paid?

Surgical tech interns are often unpaid or receive stipends, depending on the program and institution. Paid internships are less common and typically require prior certification or specific arrangements, but some hospitals or clinics may offer compensation for internship roles. It is important to verify the specific internship program's compensation policies before applying.

How do you become a surgical tech intern?

To become a surgical tech intern, candidates typically need to complete a surgical technology program accredited by a recognized agency and obtain certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). Internships or externships may be available through hospitals or training programs to gain hands-on experience in the operating room environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical Tech jobs in California?

The most popular types of Surgical Tech jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Surgical Tech Intern jobs in California?

For Surgical Tech Intern jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical Tech Intern jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical Tech Intern jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Surgical Tech Intern jobs?

Cities in California with the most Surgical Tech Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Tech Intern job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Internship, 68% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,790 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Surgical Tech II - Surgery - Full Time 12 Hour Days (Non-Exempt) (Union) (Open)

Los Angeles, CA • On-site


Keck Medicine of USC
Health Care and Social Assistance • 5 - 10K employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

302nd of 1,064 rated hospitals

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


$35.88 - $61/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Under general guidance of the Registered Nurse, the Surgical Tech II applies, demonstrates, and possesses proficient/advance knowledge, competencies, and skills of surgical and aseptic techniques and practices; assists the surgical team and performs a variety of tasks in an operating room; prepares, sterilizes, and cleans up surgical equipment and instruments; and is responsible for the care and safety of patients who come under his/her care. The Surgical Tech II is generally assigned a triad of surgical/operative procedures and exercises critical thinking and independent judgement

Departmental Specific Summary

Essential Duties

  • Performs similar responsibilities as the Surgical Tech I but distinguishes from the Tech I in that the Surgical Tech II is an intermediate to advance level position and is generally assigned a triad of difficult surgical/operative procedures (such as Head, Neck, Neuro, Spine and/or Ortho surgeries) which requires proficient/advance knowledge, skills, and ability to adapt to the operative procedure.
  • Adheres to all safety standards and policies (such as surgical, specimen collection, sterile processing, Title 22, JCAHO) as they relate while performing all responsibilities.
  • Applies principles of aseptic technique and initiates prompt corrective action when breaks in aseptic technique occur.
  • Remains attentive throughout the operative procedure, anticipating the needs of the surgical team, and responds appropriately during emergency intraoperative crises.
  • Maintains ongoing communication with the circulating nurse and other members of the surgical team regarding changes in patient status or the progress of surgery.
  • Arranges and inventories sterile set-up for operation.
  • Facilitates the smooth flow of the surgical intervention (i.e., prepares for the procedure with updated preference cards, knowledge of instruments and equipment).
  • Performs scrub role (such as anticipating surgical team's needs, passing of instruments, cutting sutures, etc.) according to standards.
  • Prepares, cleans, and maintains instruments, equipment, and all surgical related items in accordance to established guidelines.
  • Transports patients, equipment, supplies, and specimens.
  • Prepares operating room (OR) by setting up tables, instruments, and supplies in according to type of case/operative procedure.
  • Performs the preceptor role in the training of students.
  • Participates in decision-marking activities related to evaluating and acquiring surgical equipment, instruments, and supplies.
  • Recommends, implements, and participates process improvement projects on an ongoing basis.
  • May mentor and/or lead other surgical technician
  • May assist in performing circulating skills and task.
  • Performs all duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Req High School or equivalent
  • Req Specialized/technical training Completion of a CAAHEP accredited Surgical Technician Program is required.
  • Req 1 year One-year experience as a Surgical Technician or as a Surgical Technician intern required. *Surgical Technician intern experience must be paid and completed at Keck Medicine of USC.
  • Req Active practice as a Surgical Technician within the six (6) months prior to application
  • Req Organization/time management skills.
  • Req Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Req Surgical Technologist - CST Valid Surgical Tech certification (CST) from accreditation organizations CAAHEP or ABHES
  • Req Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider from American Heart Association
  • Req Fire Life Safety Training (LA City) If no card upon hire, one must be obtained within 30 days of hire and maintained by renewal before expiration date. (Required within LA City only)
Keck Hospital of USC, a 343-bed acute care hospital, provides exceptional and innovative care for complex medical and surgical conditions across a wide range of specialties. The hospital's world-renowned physicians deliver compassionate, customized, patient-centered care and treat the most acutely ill patients with highly innovative techniques and treatment plans. As a leading academic medical center, hundreds of clinical trials are currently taking place at Keck Hospital and its affiliated research institutions, giving patients access to novel and promising therapies that are generally not available elsewhere. Every day at Keck Hospital, physicians, nurses and staff go beyond the science of exceptional medicine to bring patients breakthroughs in the art of caring. Join this world-class team providing highly specialized care, up-to-the-minute research, and innovative clinical trials.
The hourly rate range for this position is $35.88 - $61.00.
When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience,
education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$151778.htmld


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