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Surgical Tech Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

We recruit and support registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, surgical technicians, respiratory therapists, imaging technologists, laboratory specialists, and other experienced nursing and ...

We recruit and support registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, surgical technicians, respiratory therapists, imaging technologists, laboratory specialists, and other experienced nursing and ...

We recruit and support registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, surgical technicians, respiratory therapists, imaging technologists, laboratory specialists, and other experienced nursing and ...

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Surgical Tech information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$711

$1.9K

$2.9K

How much do surgical tech jobs pay per week?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average weekly pay for surgical tech in Waterloo, IA is $1,856.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,384.62 and $2,275.00 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical tech?

Surgical techs, also known as surgical technologists or operating room technicians, are allied health professionals who assist surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff during surgical procedures. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, passing instruments to surgeons, and ensuring a sterile environment. Surgical techs play a vital role in patient safety and the smooth operation of surgical teams. They are typically employed in hospitals, outpatient centers, and ambulatory surgical facilities. To become a surgical tech, formal education and certification are generally required.

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

To thrive as a Surgical Tech, you need a solid understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and anatomy, generally supported by completion of an accredited surgical technology program and certification (such as CST). Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room equipment, and electronic health record systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring patient safety, supporting surgical teams, and maintaining efficient operating room workflows.

What do surgical techs do?

Surgical technologists are the first people to enter the operating room before a surgery. They prepare and sterilize the location and layout all needed equipment, taking a careful count of everything being used. Once everything is sterile and prepared, the surgical tech acts as an aid for the surgeon and surgical assistant. While continuing to maintain the sterility of the room, they may also be asked to help prep and give medications, assist with retraction of tissues from the patient, and pass instruments to the surgeon as needed. Postoperatively, surgical techs count every tool and device used once again, to ensure nothing was left inside the patient. They may also help with sutures and to disinfect the incision site. Finally, they help with the proper disposal of all gauzes, drapes, and syringes.

What are some common challenges a surgical tech may face in the operating room, and how can they be addressed?

Surgical Techs often encounter challenges such as managing the fast pace of surgeries, maintaining strict sterility, and adapting quickly to unexpected changes during procedures. These challenges can be addressed by staying organized, proactively communicating with the surgical team, and continuously honing technical skills through ongoing education and hands-on experience. Building strong teamwork and keeping calm under pressure also help Surgical Techs excel and ensure patient safety in the operating room.

Is it hard to get hired as a surgical tech?

Getting hired as a surgical tech can be competitive, as employers often seek candidates with certification, relevant clinical experience, and strong attention to detail. Having a certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and familiarity with surgical tools and procedures can improve job prospects. The hiring process may also depend on the healthcare facility's needs and geographic location.

Is it worth becoming a surgical tech?

A surgical tech assists in surgical procedures by preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, and passing instruments. The role offers steady employment, a median salary around $50,000, and requires certification and attention to detail. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in healthcare and supporting surgical teams.

What are popular job titles related to Surgical Tech jobs in Waterloo, IA?

For Surgical Tech jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Surgical Tech jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Surgical Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Surgical Tech job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,514 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Surgical Technologist II-Certified-Operating Room

UnityPoint Health

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 365 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Surgical Tech II / LPN - OR

POTENTIAL SIGN-ON BONUS AVAILABLE! - $5,000 PAID OUT OVER 1 YEAR

Shift: Full-time; 8-10 hour shifts; day shift up to weekly call; call every 4-5th weekend; holidays by rotation

Our Operating Room is a busy 9 suite department that performs a variety of surgical cases in the following specialty areas: Cardiothoracic, Vascular, Robotics, Orthopedics, General Surgery, Gynecology, Neurosurgery, Urology, Podiatry, and Plastics. We offer opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth related to the perioperative arena and are very proud of our structured and robust orientation program centered around the Periop 101 program through AORN

The Surgical Technologist II functions as a member of the surgical team to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive surgical, therapeutic, and diagnostic procedures.   Collaborates with the team to ensure that the operating room environment is safe, that instrumentation functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.   Proficient in the role of first or second scrub person, or assistant circulator during procedures within one specialty area. Could potentially hire a Surg Tech/LPN for this role as well. 


At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.  

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. Here are just a few:   

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.   
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.  
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.   

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. 

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.


  • Handles the instruments, supplies, and equipment necessary during the surgical procedure in their assigned specialty area. Has an understanding of the procedure being performed and anticipates the needs of the surgeon
  • Participates in collaborative review of pertinent patient information for accuracy of procedure and associated factors influencing preparedness for procedure. (i.e. H&P, Consents, Radiographic reports)
  • Assists in circulating duties, obtains additional instruments, supplies, and equipment necessary while the surgical procedure is in progress. Monitors conditions in the operating room and constantly assesses the needs of the patient and surgical team.
  • In the second assisting role, carries out technical tasks other than cutting, clamping, and suturing of tissue. This role is distinct from that of the first assistant and may, in some circumstances, be performed at the same time as the scrub role.
  • Strives to enhance personal technical and clinical competence in all job-related duties.
  • Assists with orientation of new departmental personnel. Participates in the clinical instruction of students as assigned in the operating room
  • Demonstrates the necessary knowledge and ability to ensure quality patient care during the operative procedure and is constantly on vigil for maintenance of the sterile fi
  • Demonstrates an awareness of patient and personal safety. Demonstrates knowledge of Standard and Transmission Based Precautions. Observes and promptly reports any unusual occurrences.
  • Organizes, cleans, and maintains unit work areas, supplies, and equipment. Assists with inventory control by reporting needs.

Education:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Graduation from a nationally accredited surgical technology program
  • Internal applicants, in good standing, with 3 or more year of recent operating room experience, who are eligible for certification, will be considered in place of education requirement for completion of surgical technology program

Licensure/Certification:

  • Certified through a national certifying body. Must maintain active certification throughout employment

What UnityPoint Health employees say

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995