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How to Become a Surgical Technologist
Quick Answer: Complete an accredited surgical technology program (12-24 months), gain clinical experience in operating rooms, pass the CST certification exam, and apply for positions in hospitals or surgical centers. Most surgical technologists start working within 1-2 years of beginning their training.
What does a Surgical Technologist do?
Surgical technologists are essential members of surgical teams who prepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, and assist surgeons during procedures. They ensure every surgery runs smoothly by anticipating the surgical team’s needs and maintaining sterile conditions throughout operations.
Primary Responsibilities
Pre-Operative Duties:
- Set up operating rooms with sterile drapes, instruments, and equipment
- Verify all surgical supplies and equipment are functioning properly
- Prepare surgical instruments and arrange them for efficient access
- Help transport and position patients on the operating table
- Assist surgical team members with gowning and gloving
Intra-Operative Duties:
- Pass instruments, sponges, and sutures to surgeons during procedures
- Hold retractors and operate suction devices as directed
- Count sponges, needles, and instruments before and after surgery
- Maintain sterile field throughout the procedure
- Handle specimens for laboratory analysis
- Apply dressings to surgical sites
Post-Operative Duties:
- Help transport patients to recovery areas
- Clean and restock operating rooms for next procedures
- Ensure proper disposal of contaminated materials
- Prepare instruments for sterilization
- Document supply usage and any complications
Work Environment
Surgical technologists spend most of their time standing in operating rooms, wearing surgical scrubs, masks, and gloves. The work requires intense focus during procedures that can last from 30 minutes to several hours. Most work in:
- Hospitals (general and specialty)
- Outpatient surgery centers
- Physicians’ offices with surgical facilities
- Dental offices performing oral surgery
- Military medical facilities
Certification types for Surgical technologists
While not all states require certification, earning credentials significantly improves job prospects and earning potential.
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Issuing Organization: National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
Requirements:
- Graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited surgical technology program
- Pass the national certification examination
- Complete continuing education for renewal
Exam Details:
- 200 multiple-choice questions
- 4-hour time limit
- Covers perioperative care, anatomy, surgical procedures, and safety
- $350 exam fee
Renewal: Every 4 years with 60 continuing education credits
Tech in Surgery-Certified (TS-C)
Issuing Organization: National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
Requirements:
- Complete an accredited surgical technology program, OR
- Complete military surgical technology training, OR
- Have 2 years of work experience as a surgical technologist
Exam Details:
- 200 multiple-choice questions
- 3-hour time limit
- $160 exam fee
Renewal: Every 5 years with continuing education
State-specific requirements
Some states have enacted legislation regarding surgical technologists:
| State | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Indiana | Registration required; certification encouraged |
| New Jersey | Graduation from accredited program required |
| Oregon | Registration and education requirements |
| South Carolina | Registration with state health department |
| Tennessee | Certification or supervision requirements |
| Texas | Certification required for most facilities |
| Washington | Registration required |
Step-by-step path to becoming a Surgical Technologist
Step 1: meet basic requirements
Education: High school diploma or GED required
Recommended High School Courses:
- Biology and anatomy
- Chemistry
- Health sciences
- Mathematics
- Computer applications
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand for extended periods (4-8+ hours)
- Manual dexterity for handling instruments
- Good vision for detailed work
- Physical stamina for demanding procedures
Step 2: complete an accredited Surgical technology program
Choose a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Program types include:
Certificate Programs (9-15 months)
- Focused on surgical technology skills
- Includes clinical rotations
- Fastest path to employment
Associate Degree Programs (18-24 months)
- Includes general education courses
- More comprehensive preparation
- May offer better advancement opportunities
Core Curriculum:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Medical terminology
- Pharmacology basics
- Microbiology and sterile technique
- Surgical procedures by specialty
- Patient care and safety
- Legal and ethical considerations
Step 3: complete clinical training
All accredited programs include supervised clinical experience in actual operating rooms. Expect:
- 400-800+ hours of clinical rotations
- Experience across multiple surgical specialties
- Direct mentorship from experienced surgical technologists
- Hands-on practice with instruments and equipment
- Observation and participation in real surgeries
Step 4: obtain certification
After graduating, take and pass a national certification exam:
- Apply through NBSTSA (for CST) or NCCT (for TS-C)
- Schedule exam at approved testing center
- Study using exam prep materials and practice tests
- Pass the certification examination
- Receive credentials and begin job search
Step 5: begin your career
Entry-Level Positions:
- General surgical technologist
- First scrub (primary technologist)
- Second scrub (assistant technologist)
Where New Graduates Find Work:
- Community hospitals
- Outpatient surgery centers
- Specialty surgical practices
- Academic medical centers
Training programs and education options
Program types comparison
| Program Type | Duration | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | 9-15 months | $5,000-$15,000 | Quick entry to field |
| Associate Degree | 18-24 months | $8,000-$25,000 | Broader career options |
| Hospital-Based | 12-24 months | Varies (some paid) | Immediate employment |
| Military Training | Varies | Free with service | Military career path |
What to look for in a program
Accreditation: Ensure CAAHEP accreditation for certification eligibility
Clinical Partnerships: Strong relationships with local hospitals and surgery centers
Pass Rates: Ask about CST exam pass rates (national average is approximately 70%)
Graduate Employment: Job placement rates and employer connections Individual outcomes vary.
Equipment: Modern simulation labs and surgical instruments
Class Size: Smaller classes often mean more hands-on experience
Online vs. in-person training
In-Person Programs: Required for clinical training and most didactic coursework
Hybrid Programs: Some theory courses online, all clinical training in-person
Note: Surgical technology cannot be learned entirely online due to hands-on skill requirements
Cost breakdown: Surgical technology training
Tuition and Fees
| Program Type | Tuition Range | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Community College Certificate | $5,000-$12,000 | $500-$1,500 |
| Community College Associate | $8,000-$18,000 | $800-$2,000 |
| Technical/Vocational School | $10,000-$25,000 | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Hospital-Based Program | $3,000-$15,000 | Varies |
Additional Expenses
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Scrubs and uniforms | $150-$300 |
| Textbooks and supplies | $500-$1,200 |
| Background check and drug screening | $75-$150 |
| Clinical site fees | $100-$500 |
| Certification exam fee | $160-$350 |
| CPR/BLS certification | $50-$100 |
Financial aid options
- Federal Pell Grants: Up to $7,395 annually for qualifying students
- Federal Student Loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized options
- State Grants: Many states offer healthcare training grants
- Hospital Sponsorships: Some facilities pay tuition in exchange for work commitment
- Workforce Development: WIA/WIOA funding for career changers
- Military Benefits: GI Bill covers approved programs
- Employer Tuition Assistance: Some hospitals offer reimbursement
Surgical Technologist salary and job outlook
National salary data
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $33,810-$45,080 |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $45,080-$56,350 |
| Experienced (8-15 years) | $56,350-$67,620 |
| Senior/Specialist (15+ years) | $67,620-$84,525 |
Salary by Work Setting
| Setting | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Outpatient Care Centers | $60,500-$65,000 |
| Specialty Hospitals | $58,000-$62,000 |
| General Medical/Surgical Hospitals | $55,000-$59,000 |
| Physicians’ Offices | $52,000-$56,000 |
| Dental Offices | $48,000-$52,000 |
Job Outlook
- Current Employment: 114,700 surgical technologists nationwide
- Projected Growth (2022-2032): 5% (about as fast as average)
- Annual Job Openings: 9,100 positions
- Growth Factors: Aging population, advances in surgical techniques, increased outpatient procedures
Salary by State
Career advancement opportunities
Specialization Options
Surgical Specialties:
- Cardiovascular/cardiothoracic surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic surgery
- Transplant surgery
- Trauma surgery
- Robotic surgery
- Pediatric surgery
Specialized Roles:
- Surgical First Assistant (requires additional training)
- Lead surgical technologist
- Materials management specialist
- Surgical educator/instructor
Advanced education paths
| Path | Requirements | Salary Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical First Assistant | 1-2 year program + CST | $65,000-$95,000 |
| Surgical Assistant (CSA) | Bachelor’s degree pathway | $70,000-$100,000+ |
| Operating Room Manager | Bachelor’s + experience | $75,000-$110,000 |
| Clinical Educator | Master’s degree | $65,000-$85,000 |
Related career transitions
- Registered Nurse (OR specialty): Additional 2-4 years education
- Physician Assistant (Surgical): Additional 2-3 years after bachelor’s
- Surgical Device Representative: Sales career using OR knowledge
- Central Sterile Processing Manager: Leadership in instrument sterilization
Pros and challenges of this career
Benefits
- Direct participation in life-saving procedures
- Strong job stability in healthcare
- Relatively short training period (1-2 years)
- Above-average salary for education required
- Clear advancement pathways
- Work as part of a skilled team
- Variety across surgical specialties
- No overnight patient responsibilities
Challenges
- Long hours standing during procedures
- Exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and potentially hazardous materials
- High-pressure environment during emergencies
- On-call requirements at many facilities
- Physical demands can be taxing
- Witnessing traumatic injuries and outcomes
- Strict sterile technique requirements
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a surgical technologist?
Most surgical technologists complete their training in 12-24 months. Certificate programs typically take 9-15 months, while associate degree programs take 18-24 months. After completing an accredited program, you can take the certification exam and begin working immediately upon passing.
Is surgical technology a good career choice?
Surgical technology offers stable employment, above-average pay for the education required, and direct involvement in patient care. With 9,100 annual job openings and 5% projected growth, opportunities remain steady. However, consider whether you’re comfortable with blood, long hours standing, and high-pressure situations.
What is the difference between CST and TS-C certification?
Both are nationally recognized certifications. The CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) is offered by NBSTSA and is the most widely recognized credential. The TS-C (Tech in Surgery-Certified) is offered by NCCT and may accept work experience in lieu of formal education in some cases. Many employers accept either credential.
Do surgical technologists get to perform surgery?
No, surgical technologists do not perform surgery. They assist surgeons by passing instruments, maintaining sterile fields, and ensuring equipment functions properly. Surgical First Assistants (an advanced role) may suture and provide more direct surgical assistance under surgeon supervision.
Can I become a surgical technologist online?
You cannot complete surgical technology training entirely online. While some programs offer hybrid formats with online theory courses, all accredited programs require extensive hands-on clinical training in real operating rooms. This clinical experience is essential for developing the practical skills employers expect.
What is the hardest part of being a surgical technologist?
Many surgical technologists cite the physical demands (standing for hours), high-stress emergency situations, and exposure to traumatic cases as the most challenging aspects. The constant need for precision and attention to detail can also be mentally taxing during long procedures.
How much do surgical technologists make per hour?
Based on national averages, surgical technologists earn approximately $22-$27 per hour at the median level. Entry-level positions start around $16-$22 per hour, while experienced technologists in high-paying settings can earn $32-$41 per hour.
Is there a demand for surgical technologists?
Yes, with 9,100 annual job openings projected through 2032, demand remains steady. Factors driving demand include an aging population requiring more surgeries, advances in surgical techniques, and the growth of outpatient surgical centers. Rural areas often have the highest demand relative to available candidates.
What skills do surgical technologists need?
Essential skills include manual dexterity, attention to detail, ability to anticipate surgeons’ needs, knowledge of surgical instruments and procedures, strong communication, ability to work under pressure, physical stamina, and commitment to sterile technique.
Can surgical technologists give injections?
Generally, no. Surgical technologists do not administer medications or injections. They may handle medications during surgery (such as passing loaded syringes to surgeons), but the actual administration is performed by licensed personnel such as surgeons, nurses, or anesthesiologists.
What shifts do surgical technologists work?
Schedules vary by employer. Hospital surgical technologists often work regular shifts (7am-3pm, 3pm-11pm) but may be required to take call for emergency surgeries during nights, weekends, and holidays. Outpatient surgery centers typically offer more predictable daytime schedules.
How do I advance from surgical technologist to surgical first assistant?
To become a Surgical First Assistant (SFA), you typically need: current CST certification, 2+ years of surgical technology experience, completion of an accredited SFA program (typically 12-18 months), and passing the CSFA certification exam. This role involves more hands-on surgical assistance and commands higher pay.
How to get started today
Ready to begin your surgical technologist career? Follow these steps:
- Research Programs: Use the search tool below to find CAAHEP-accredited surgical technology programs in your area
- Compare Options: Consider program length, cost, clinical partnerships, and certification exam pass rates
- Check Requirements: Verify prerequisites such as background checks, immunizations, and prerequisite courses
- Apply for Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA and explore scholarship opportunities
- Schedule Campus Visits: Tour facilities and meet with admissions counselors
Additional Resources
Professional Organizations
- Association of Surgical Technologists (AST): ast.org – Professional association offering continuing education, advocacy, and career resources
- NBSTSA: nbstsa.org – CST certification and exam information
Certification Information
- CST Exam Preparation: Study guides, practice tests, and exam details at NBSTSA
- TS-C Certification: Information available at NCCT website
- Continuing Education: Required credits for certification maintenance
Accreditation Resources
- CAAHEP: caahep.org – Find accredited surgical technology programs
- ARC/STSA: Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting