How to Become a Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists — also called scrub techs or operating room technicians — are essential members of the surgical team. They prepare operating rooms, arrange sterile instruments, assist surgeons during procedures, and ensure every step of the surgical process meets strict safety standards. It's a precise, high-stakes career that sits at the intersection of technical skill and patient care.

The BLS reports surgical technologists earn a median annual wage of $59,380, with experienced techs in major hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers earning $70,000–$80,000+. Employment is projected to grow 5% through 2033.

What Does a Surgical Tech Do?

Surgical technologists work in all types of operating rooms — hospital surgical suites, ambulatory surgery centers, and specialty surgical facilities. Their responsibilities include:

• Setting up the OR with the correct instruments, equipment, and supplies before each procedure
• Maintaining the sterile field during surgery
• Passing instruments and supplies to surgeons and surgical nurses
• Counting sponges, instruments, and needles to prevent retained surgical items
• Assisting with patient positioning and draping
• Preparing and operating specialized equipment (laparoscopic towers, C-arms)

Surgical techs often specialize by surgical service — orthopedics, cardiovascular, neurosurgery, trauma, or robotics-assisted surgery.

Step 1 — Complete an Accredited Surgical Technology Program

Programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) are the standard. Options include:

• Certificate/diploma programs: 12–18 months — fast-track focused on core surgical tech skills
• Associate degree: 2 years — more comprehensive, includes general education requirements

Curriculum covers surgical anatomy, microbiology, pharmacology, surgical procedures across specialties, sterile technique, and patient care. Clinical externships are a required component.

Step 2 — Earn the CST Certification

The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is the most recognized certification in the field. The CST exam covers:

• Perioperative care
• Ancillary duties
• Basic science

CST certification must be renewed every 4 years through continuing education. Most employers prefer or require CST certification for hiring.

Specialized Career Paths for Surgical Techs

After gaining experience, surgical techs can pursue high-earning specializations:

• Surgical First Assistant (CSFA): An advanced role where surgical techs actively assist the surgeon during procedures — requires additional training and the CSFA credential; average salary $80,000–$100,000
• Robotic Surgery Specialist: Da Vinci robot platform certification — high demand from hospitals adopting robotic surgery programs
• Cardiovascular OR Tech: Open-heart surgery specialty — premium pay
• Travel Surgical Tech: Short-term contracts at hospitals nationwide — often $60,000–$85,000/year with stipends

Why Choose Surgical Technology?

Surgical tech offers a compelling combination: real impact on patient outcomes, intellectual challenge, teamwork in a high-stakes environment, and no typical "office job" boredom. The work is never routine — every patient, every procedure presents new challenges.

See our Surgical Technologist career profile for CAAHEP-accredited program listings and hospital hiring trends.