1

Surgical Tech Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Under the observation of the surgical tech, OR Nurse or Surgeon performs a variety of preparatory, scrubbing and related services necessary to provide patient service in the operating room. Assists ...

The Surgical Technician Trainee - MVCC, will aid the Operating Room team members prior, during, and after surgical procedures. The main functions of this position will include transporting patients ...

The Surgical Technician Trainee - MVCC, will aid the Operating Room team members prior, during, and after surgical procedures. The main functions of this position will include transporting patients ...

Surgical Tech Student Intern

San Angelo, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Job Summary The Surgical Tech Student Intern is a temporary position for surgical tech students to practice in surgical areas. The Surgical Tech Student Intern is co-assigned with a Certified ...

Surgical Tech Student Intern

San Angelo, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Job Summary The Surgical Tech Student Intern is a temporary position for surgical tech students to practice in surgical areas. The Surgical Tech Student Intern is co-assigned with a Certified ...

Showing results 41-60

Surgical Tech Intern information

See salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do surgical tech intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical tech intern in the United States is $17.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 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.
More about Surgical Tech Intern jobs

What cities are hiring for Surgical Tech Intern jobs?

Cities with the most Surgical Tech Intern job openings:

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

The most popular types of Surgical Tech jobs are:

What states have the most Surgical Tech Intern jobs?

States with the most job openings for Surgical Tech Intern jobs include:

Infographic showing various Surgical Tech Intern job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,265 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Surgical Tech Intern

Advocate Health

Oshkosh, WI • On-site

Other

Re-posted 11 hours ago


Advocate Aurora Health rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 781 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Major Responsibilities:

  • Under the observation of the surgical tech, OR Nurse or Surgeon performs a variety of preparatory, scrubbing and related services necessary to provide patient service in the operating room. Assists with surgical cases in all specialty areas.
  • Provides for a clean, safe and efficient area conducive to optimal patient care. Utilizes aseptic surgical techniques in the preparation of materials, supplies and equipment for surgical procedures (e.g., assistance with gowning and gloving; preparation and draping of the surgical area; provision of a sterile field, instruments, suture and related materials; anticipation of the Surgeons' needs; passing of instruments and/or supplies; holding of retractors, observing and reporting possible breaks in aseptic technique; and assisting in maintaining a sterile, dry, unobstructed field).
  • Acts as a scrub assistant for surgical procedures and maintains basic knowledge of a variety of procedures.
  • Ensures the environmental disinfection, safety and efficiency of the operating room. This includes setting up the room for each case including moving equipment (i.e., tables, cameras, microscopes, fracture table, and instrument pans), operating the various types of equipment used during operating room procedures, and returning equipment post procedure.
  • Notifies appropriate staff of equipment and supply problems.
  • Transports patients and/or equipment and supplies.
  • Maintains a specialty cart or item, ensuring its completeness and availability. This includes checking the working condition of equipment, sterility, and sending damaged items out for repair.
  • Performs various patient positioning and transporting duties, which require lifting and pushing/pulling, while utilizing proper technique.
  • Must be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served.
  • Must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs, and to provide the care needed as described in the department's policies and procedures. Age-specific information is developed further in the departmental job standards.


Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification issued by the American Heart Association (AHA) needs to be obtained within 6 months unless department leader has determined it is not required.


Education Required:

  • Currently enrolled in an accredited or approved program in Surgical Technology.


Experience Required:

  • No experience required.


Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

  • Knowledge of aseptic surgical techniques used in the preparation of materials, supplies and equipment for various surgical procedures.
  • Knowledge of various types of equipment used in the operating room.
  • Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
  • Basic computer proficiency.


Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

  • Must be able to withstand a very stressful and fast-paced environment.
  • Must be able to:
  • lift up to 50 lbs. from floor to waist.
  • lift up to 20 lbs. over the head.
  • carry up to 40 lbs. a reasonable distance.
  • Must be able to:
  • push/pull with 30 lbs. of force.
  • perform a sliding transfer of 150 lbs. with a second person present.
  • Required to use foot pedals on carts or machines.
  • Exposed to the following hazards on a continuous basis: mechanical, electrical, chemical, radiation, blood and body fluids.
  • Must have functional sight and hearing.
  • Required to wear masks, gloves, goggles, and gowns.
  • Must be able to sit, stand, walk, lift, squat, bend, reach above shoulders and twist frequently during work shift.
  • Must be able to operate all equipment essential to performing the duties of the job.


This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.


What Advocate Aurora Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Advocate Health logo

About Advocate Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Advocate Healthcare, based in Oak Lawn, Illinois, United States, is a leading figure in the health care industry. Accessible via their official website, 'advocatehealth.com', this organization provides a wide variety of medical services and treatment options. Founded in 1995 through a merger of Evangelical Health Systems Corporation and Lutheran General HealthSystem, Advocate Healthcare has grown exponentially over the years. Now, it operates more than 400 sites of care, including 12 hospitals that encompass 11 acute care hospitals, the state’s largest integrated children’s network, five Level I trauma centers, and three Level II trauma centers. Upholding their values of equality, compassion, excellence, partnership and stewardship, Advocate Healthcare's mission is centered on building lifelong relationships with patients by delivering the best health outcomes and highest level of service through an integrated approach to care and wellness.

Industry

Hospitals and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US