Surgical Tech Salary

Surgical tech careers are becoming increasingly popular with those entering the medical profession. The major role of a surgical technologist is to maintain safety and sterile conditions in an operating room. Typical job duties include assuring the proper function of medical equipment, the sterility of surgical instruments and supplies, and direct interaction with surgeons, registered nurses, anesthesiologists and operating room staff. Many are afforded direct patient responsibilities during surgical procedures, such as closing surgical incisions and monitoring vital signs and blood levels. Certified technologists with specialized education and training can be promoted to positions of surgical first assistant, responsible for specialized functions such as blood and oxygen level monitoring.

Surgical technologists handle surgical instruments, medications and supplies required for specific procedures. Most of them in the U.S. are employed by hospitals, predominately in operating and delivery rooms. Some are also employed by outpatient surgery centers, oral surgeons and reconstructive surgeons with in-office surgical suites.

Career prospects for surgical techs have been steadily increasing. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that growth opportunities are expected to increase by approximately 40 percent by 2018, one of the fastest growing rates for occupations nationwide. Job opportunities are excellent for certified technologists and for those willing to relocate. Although hospitals remain the largest employer, employment opportunities are available in the private sector, including insurance companies, research facilities and teaching institutions.

Although surgical tech positions do not require certification, the highest paid salaries are afforded to those who have completed a formal training program through a community college, vocational school, university or military program. Most employers prefer to hire certified technologists. Certification, which is voluntary, is offered through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting. Prior to certification, a graduate of an accredited training program is required to pass a national certification examination. In order to maintain certification, surgical techs are required to accumulate 60 hours of continuing education every four years, or must pass another certification examination.

The average surgical tech salary varies according to several factors, including education, experience, certification, employer affiliation and geographic location. The average salary is $38,750 per year. Surgical techs employed in specialty hospitals and surgery centers earn an annual salary of approximately $40,800. Those employed in outpatient care facilities and general surgical hospitals earn between $38,640 and $39,550. The average salary paid by private physicians ranges from $36,380 to $38,500 per year. Higher salaries are afforded to those with national certification. It has been estimated that the top ten percent of salaries are $57,000 per year, while the lowest ten percent are $39,000 per year. The highest salary levels are reported in medical/surgical offices, with an average of $55,840 per year. Surgical tech salaries in specialty hospitals are estimated at $46,630 per year, with salaries at ambulatory care facilities slightly lower, at $44,030 per year.

Salaries also vary according to geographic location. According to recent statistics published by the U.S. Department of Labor, Nevada, Hawaii, Alaska, District of Columbia and California offer the highest wages, ranging from $48,820 in California to $50,690 in Nevada.

The majority of hospital employers offer excellent benefit packages, including medical, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation, sick time and personal time off. Many large employers offer life insurance, disability insurance and retirement programs. Some employers provide child care assistance and tuition reimbursement plans.

Surgical technologist careers are on the rise. The current trend, expected to continue for the next ten years, is indicative of excellent opportunities for career growth and advancement in this exciting and challenging medical profession.