Sep 23, 2025

Surgical Technologist Careers: Salary Insights, Training, and Future Demand

Surgical technologists, often called surgical techs, are indispensable members of the operating room team. They work side by side with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists to make sure every procedure is safe, sterile, and efficient. For those who want a healthcare career with hands-on responsibility, excellent pay, and strong job growth-but without years of medical school-becoming a surgical tech is a fantastic option.

What Do Surgical Techs Do?

Surgical technologists are highly trained professionals who prepare and maintain the operating room environment before, during, and after surgery. Their duties include:

1. Prepping the OR: Sterilizing instruments, setting up surgical trays, and arranging equipment.
2. Assisting Surgeons: Passing instruments, sponges, and other supplies during surgery.
3. Maintaining Safety: Monitoring and counting supplies to prevent anything being left behind.
4. Supporting Recovery: Helping with dressings and transferring patients to recovery rooms.

Their focus on detail and efficiency ensures that surgical teams can concentrate on what matters most, saving lives and improving patient outcomes.

How to Become a Surgical Tech

The pathway to becoming a surgical technologist is faster than many other healthcare careers. Most surgical techs complete a 1–2 year program at a community college, vocational school, or university, earning a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.

While not always required, most employers strongly prefer certification. The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, awarded by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting, is the most recognized in the field. It demonstrates professional competence and opens the door to more job opportunities. Surgical techs must also pursue continuing education to keep their skills sharp and maintain certification.

Job Outlook: A Growing Field

Surgical technology is a growing profession with excellent prospects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

1. The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $62,830 in May 2024.
2. Employment of surgical assistants and technologists is expected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.
3. An estimated 8,700 job openings are projected each year over the next decade, many due to retirements or workers moving into other careers.

This growth is driven by advances in medical technology, an aging population that requires more surgical care, and the ongoing need for skilled healthcare workers nationwide.

Where the Jobs Are: State Employment Trends

Some states employ more surgical technologists relative to their workforce than others. According to BLS data, the top states with the highest employment per thousand jobs are:

1. Arkansas
2. South Dakota
3. Oklahoma

This means that surgical techs are in especially high demand in these states, offering strong opportunities for those seeking stable, rewarding work in the operating room.

Highest Paying States for Surgical Techs

While pay varies by region and experience level, some states consistently offer higher salaries for surgical technologists. According to the BLS, the states with the highest annual mean wages are:

1. Connecticut: $79,080
2. California: $76,170
3. Nevada: $73,800

These states not only provide competitive pay but also reflect strong demand for surgical professionals in their healthcare systems.

Why Choose a Career as a Surgical Tech?

Choosing surgical technology means stepping into a career that is:

1. Fast to enter – Training programs typically take only 1–2 years.
2. Well compensated – Median wages exceed $62,000, with higher earning potential in certain states.
3. In demand – Thousands of job openings every year ensure strong employment prospects.
4. Impactful – Surgical techs directly support life saving procedures and patient recovery.

For those who thrive in a team-based, high stakes environment, this career offers both stability and personal fulfillment.

Traveling Surgical Techs

For surgical technologists seeking adventure and flexibility, travel assignments offer an exciting career path. Traveling surgical techs work short-term contracts in hospitals and surgical centers across the country, filling in where their skills are needed most. This role allows them to gain experience in different healthcare systems, expand their expertise with diverse surgical procedures, and enjoy competitive pay packages that often include housing, travel stipends, and bonuses. Beyond the financial benefits, travel surgical techs have the opportunity to explore new cities, meet new people, and build a resume that stands out in a growing field.

Start Your Surgical Tech Career with Aequor

At Aequor, we connect talented surgical technologists with hospitals, surgical centers, and healthcare facilities nationwide. Whether you want to work close to home or explore opportunities across the country as a travel surgical tech, Aequor’s recruiters are here to help you find your ideal fit. Reach out to an Aequor recruiter today to help you find your perfect job match.

Browse Aequor’s open positions today and take the first step toward a rewarding career as a surgical technologist.

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