Surgical Technologists
Surgical technologists assist surgeons and surgical teams during operations by preparing operating rooms, readying patients for surgery, and handling instruments and equipment during procedures. They work in hospitals, surgical centers, and other medical facilities where they help ensure surgeries run smoothly under the supervision of surgeons and registered nurses.
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A day in the work
A surgical technologist's week involves preparing operating rooms before procedures, sterilizing instruments, and positioning surgical equipment. During operations, they pass instruments to surgeons, hold retractors to keep incisions open, cut sutures, and monitor the sterile field. Between surgeries, they clean and restock rooms, maintain equipment, and may transport patients to and from the operating area.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCS. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited for this work if you prefer hands-on tasks with clear procedures and practical results. Success comes from attention to detail, ability to follow established protocols, and comfort working efficiently in fast-paced medical environments where precision matters.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $59,810 | $82,640 | $88,160 | 290 |
| Oregon | $73,190 | $81,390 | $94,640 | 1,090 |
| California | $64,380 | $81,310 | $99,260 | 11,920 |
| Massachusetts | $68,830 | $80,870 | $98,300 | 2,220 |
| Alaska | $63,480 | $80,380 | $93,470 | 310 |
| Minnesota | $72,730 | $80,210 | $86,420 | 1,770 |
| Connecticut | $59,120 | $79,890 | $95,050 | 1,220 |
| New York | $64,390 | $79,550 | $98,140 | 6,540 |
| District of Columbia | $49,260 | $77,520 | $83,780 | 340 |
| Washington | $62,330 | $77,270 | $90,620 | 2,510 |
| New Jersey | $64,440 | $77,200 | $85,700 | 2,780 |
| Colorado | $62,930 | $75,740 | $83,000 | 2,100 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) — National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting
- Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) — National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting
- Certified Surgical Instrument Specialist (CSIP) — Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution
- Certified Surgical Assistant — American Board of Surgical Assistants
- Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) — National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants
- Surgical Technician Online National Certification (NRST) — American Allied Health
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against surgical technologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2055.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.