How to Become a Surgical Technician

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Surgical Technician

What does a Surgical Technician do?

The Surgical Technician prepares equipment, instruments, supplies, operating room, and patients and ensure sterile field. Assists medical team with preparations for surgical procedures and during the procedure. Being a Surgical Technician maintains inventory of sterile supplies. Coordinates preparation or disposal of specimens and delivery to laboratory according to procedures. In addition, Surgical Technician may assist in patient transport. Requires completion of surgical technologist training course. Requires a high school diploma. Requires CPR certification. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Being a Surgical Technician works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Working as a Surgical Technician typically requires 1-3 years of related experience, or may need 0 years of experience with additional specialized training and/or certification.

People's Opinions on Surgical Technician responsibilities

The roles of a surgical technician may vary among countries and even between medical facilities within a country.

11/06/2019: Winston Salem, NC

Surgical technicians complete special training, usually lasting from about one to two years, either at community or trade colleges.

10/18/2019: Newark, NJ

Surgical techs may oversee cleaning and prepare and sterilize all instruments that might be needed in an operation.

12/02/2019: Johnstown, PA

As surgery progresses, the surgical tech watches to be sure no one has violated sterile procedures.

12/01/2019: Fargo, ND

Depending on the type of surgery being performed, a surgical technician may be required to stand in one place for long periods of time.

10/21/2019: Bradenton, FL
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Surgical Technician

Best tips for those who want to become a Surgical Technician

Here are some tips to become a Surgical Technician.

People's Opinions on best tips

Verify Your Program’s Accreditation.

10/11/2019: Gainesville, FL

Gain Experience through Internships.

11/08/2019: Erie, PA

Receive the study materials at your doorstep within five business days.

12/21/2019: Lynchburg, VA

Take the program and the exam review with the help of an online instructor.(must be completed in 4 months).

10/24/2019: Johnstown, PA

Register for the national certification exam (Your instructor will guide you).

11/22/2019: Queens Village, NY
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Surgical Technician

Best colleges and universities for Surgical Technician

  • Butler University
  • Carroll College
  • Cooper Union
  • High Point University
  • Princeton University
  • Providence College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Surgical Technician

Is being a Surgical Technician Worth it?

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Ryan Donaldson, a surgical service technician assigned to the 633rd SGOS, Lombana has shown great motivation and determination to be trained in all aspects of his job in order to accomplish the mission at home and for future deployments.

10/24/2019: New Orleans, LA

Minimum high school diploma or equivalent.Operating Room Technician Certification/Completion of an Approved Surgical Scrub Technician Program or experience working as a scrub tech.

12/06/2019: Asheville, NC

Assists surgeon during operative and invasive procedures.  Assists with preparing operating suite for procedures.  Helps to monitor PAR level of all surgical instruments and supplies.  Cleans and sterilizes surgical instruments as indicated.  Participates in departmental staff meetings and performance improvement activities.

10/24/2019: Paramus, NJ

View all United Surgical Partners International jobs in Frontenac, MO - Frontenac jobs.

11/20/2019: Denver, CO

The surgical team relies on the tech to set up surgical drapes and sterile and non-sterile instruments and make sure they’re all in good working order.

11/24/2019: Frankfort, KY
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Surgical Technician

What skills do you need to be a Surgical Technician?

There are many skills required to succeed in this role, which vary in importance depending on the exact role and department size.  The daily workload for this job will be highly dependant on these skills: Operating Room (OR), Medical Specialty: Surgery.  By growing your skills to reflect the ones mentioned, you are more likely to succeed in this role, and move forward to a more senior position.

People's Opinions on Surgical Technician skills

Highly motivated surgical technician with 3+ years of experience assisting the registered nurse during surgical procedures for in-patient care.

10/13/2019: Rockford, IL

Surgical technologists perform various functions providing patients with necessary care and support required prior to surgery, as well as rendering assistance to the surgeon during surgery.

12/26/2019: Hartford, CT

Prepare and secure all supplies required for surgical intervention.

12/18/2019: Olympia, WA

To get hired and succeed in the surgical technician career, you need to have certain skills, qualities, abilities, qualifications, educational background, etc.

12/24/2019: Petaluma, CA

Familiarity with all surgical instruments and equipment; and a working knowledge of sterile techniques and aseptic procedures are required.

12/05/2019: New Orleans, LA
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Step 6: View average salary for Surgical Technician

How much does a Surgical Technician make?

The average salary range for a Surgical Technician is from $46,800 to $57,600. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Surgical Technician
$46,800 to $57,600

Step 7: Find relevant Surgical Technician jobs, and apply.

Looking for Surgical Technician jobs?

Here are some Surgical Technician jobs in the United States.

Search Surgical Technician Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Surgical Technician