How Much Does a Surgical Tech Make? A Complete Guide

An essential function in the operating room is performed by surgical technicians. They assist surgeons during surgeries and ensure the operating room is clean and sterile. Surgical techs are also responsible for preparing patients for surgery and monitoring their vital signs.

If you are considering a career as a surgical tech, you may be wondering how much you can expect to earn. In this blog post, we will discuss the salary of surgical techs and the factors that can affect your earnings. We will also provide information on the job outlook for surgical techs and the steps you can take to get started in this career.

What is Surgical Tech?

A surgical tech is a healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgeries. They work in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and physician’s offices. Surgical techs are responsible for multiple tasks, such as preparing the operating room, assisting the surgeon during the procedure, and monitoring the patient’s vital signs.

What Does a Surgical Tech Do?

Surgical techs have a wide range of responsibilities. Some of their duties include:

• Preparing the operating room for surgery by cleaning and sterilizing instruments and equipment
• Assisting the surgeon during the procedure by passing instruments and supplies
• Keeping an eye on the patient’s vitals during the procedure
• Helping the surgeon close the incision
• Transporting the patient to the recovery room

How Much Does a Surgical Tech Make?

The salary of a surgical tech varies depending on several factors, including experience, education, location, and specialty. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for surgical techs was $48,820 in May 2020. However, salaries can range from $35,000 to $75,000 or more.

Factors That Affect Surgical Tech Salary

A surgical tech’s pay can be influenced by a number of things. These factors include:

• Experience: Surgical techs with more experience typically earn higher salaries than those with less experience.
• Education: Surgical techs with additional education, such as a bachelor’s degree, may also earn higher salaries.
• Location: Surgical techs who work in high-cost areas, such as major cities, typically earn higher salaries than those who work in lower-cost regions.
• Specialty: Surgical techs specializing in a particular area of surgery, such as orthopedics or cardiology, may also earn higher salaries.

Job Outlook for Surgical Techs

The job outlook for surgical techs is expected to be good. According to the BLS, employment for surgical techs is projected to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to an increasing number of surgeries being performed and an aging population.

How to Become a Surgical Tech

There are several ways to become a surgical tech. One option is to complete a formal surgical tech program, which is typically offered by community colleges and vocational schools. Another option is to gain on-the-job training as a surgical assistant.

Surgical Tech Certification

While not always required, surgical tech certification can improve your job prospects and earning potential. Several organizations offer surgical tech certification, and the National Association of Surgical Technologists (NAST) is one of the most well-known organizations.

Surgical Tech Schools

There are many surgical tech schools in the United States. When choosing a school, consider the program’s accreditation, cost, and location.

Surgical Tech Career Outlook

The career outlook for surgical techs is bright. Surgical tec’hs are in high demand, and there are many opportunities for advancement. With experience and education, surgical techs can move into management positions or specialize in a particular area of surgery.

FAQs

How much does a surgical tec’h make per hour?

A: The average hourly wage for a surgical tec’h is $23.50. However, hourly wages vary depending on experience, education, location, and specialty.

What is the starting salary for a surgical tec’h?

A: The starting salary for a surgical tec’h is typically between $35,000 and $40,000. However, starting salaries can vary depending on experience, education, location, and specialty.

What is the duration required to become a surgical tec’h?

A: A surgical tec’h program typically takes about 18 months to complete. However, each institution may have a different curriculum length.

What are the job benefits for surgical tech’s?

A: Surgical techs typically receive a competitive benefits package, which may include health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, paid time off, and retirement benefits.

Is there a demand for surgical techs?

A: Yes, there is a high demand for surgical tech’s. According to the BLS, employment for surgical techs is projected to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Conclusion

Surgical tech’s play an essential role in the healthcare field. They assist surgeons during surgeries and ensure the operating room is clean and sterile. Surgical tech’s are also responsible for preparing patients for surgery and monitoring their vital signs.

The salary of a surgical tec’h varies depending on several factors, including experience, education, location, and specialty. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for surgical techs was $48,820 in May 2020. However, salaries can range from $35,000 to $75,000 or more.