If you’re considering a career as a surgical technologist, one of the most important factors to research is the surgical tech salary. Understanding how much you can earn, the factors that influence pay, and opportunities for advancement can help you make an informed career decision.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the surgical tech salary based on experience, location, certifications, and workplace settings. We’ll also explore job outlook, benefits, and frequently asked questions about this rewarding healthcare career.
What Is a Surgical Technologist?
A surgical technologist, also known as a scrub tech, assists in surgical operations. They prepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment, and assist surgeons during procedures. Their role is crucial in ensuring surgeries run smoothly and safely.
Since their work is highly specialized, surgical tech salary can vary based on several factors. Let’s dive into the details.
Average Surgical Tech Salary in 2024
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average surgical tech salary in the United States is approximately
58,510peryear∗∗(about∗∗
58,510peryear∗∗(about∗∗28.13 per hour) as of May 2023. However, earnings can range from
40,000toover
40,000toover75,000 depending on various factors.
Surgical Tech Salary by Experience Level
- Entry-Level (0-2 years) –
- 40,000−
- 40,000−50,000
- Mid-Career (3-5 years) –
- 50,000−
- 50,000−65,000
- Experienced (5+ years) –
- 65,000−
- 65,000−75,000+
Gaining experience and additional certifications can significantly boost your surgical tech salary.
Factors Affecting Surgical Tech Salary
Several key factors influence how much a surgical technologist earns:
1. Geographic Location
Salaries vary widely by state and city due to cost of living and demand.
- Highest-Paying States:
- California: $73,960
- Alaska: $70,050
- Nevada: $68,700
- District of Columbia: $67,890
- Minnesota: $66,900
- Lowest-Paying States:
- Mississippi: $43,890
- Arkansas: $45,290
- West Virginia: $46,120
2. Work Setting
Where you work impacts earnings:
- Hospitals (Private & Government):
- 55,000−
- 55,000−65,000
- Outpatient Care Centers:
- 60,000−
- 60,000−75,000
- Physicians’ Offices:
- 50,000−
- 50,000−60,000
3. Certification & Specialization
Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) earn 10-15% more than non-certified techs. Specializing in high-demand areas (e.g., neurosurgery, cardiovascular) can also increase pay.
4. Shift Differentials & Overtime
Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays often comes with extra pay (5-15% more). Overtime opportunities can also boost annual earnings.
How to Increase Your Surgical Tech Salary
If you want to maximize your surgical tech salary, consider these strategies:
1. Get Certified
- Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) – Offered by NBSTSA
- Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) – Offered by NCCT
2. Pursue Specializations
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Neurological Surgery
3. Gain Experience & Take Leadership Roles
Becoming a Lead Surgical Tech or First Assistant can increase earnings by
5,000−
5,000−10,000 annually.
4. Relocate to High-Paying States
Moving to states like California, Alaska, or Nevada can significantly raise your salary.
Surgical Tech Job Outlook
The BLS projects a 5% job growth for surgical technologists from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This means about 8,600 new jobs will be added, ensuring strong demand.
Factors driving growth:
- Aging population requiring more surgeries
- Advancements in surgical technology
- Increase in outpatient surgical centers
Benefits Beyond Salary
Besides a competitive surgicals tech salary, professionals in this field enjoy:
✔ Health, dental, and vision insurance
✔ Retirement plans (401k, pensions)
✔ Paid time off & sick leave
✔ Tuition reimbursement for further education
FAQs
1. What is the starting salary for a surgical tech?
Most entry-level surgical techs earn
40,000−
40,000−50,000 per year.
2. How much do surgical techs make an hour?
The average hourly wage is
28.13∗∗,butitcanrangefrom∗∗
28.13∗∗,butitcanrangefrom∗∗19 – $36 depending on location and experience.
3. Do surgical techs get overtime pay?
Yes, many surgical techs earn 1.5x their hourly rate for overtime, which can significantly increase annual earnings.
4. Which states pay surgical techs the most?
California, Alaska, and Nevada offer the highest surgical tech salaries, averaging
68,000−
68,000−74,000 annually.
5. Does certification increase salary?
Yes, certified surgical techs (CST) typically earn 10-15% more than non-certified peers.
Conclusion
A career as a surgical technologist offers a stable income, strong job growth, and rewarding work. While the average surgical tech salary is around
58,510∗∗,factorslike∗∗location,certification,andspecialization∗∗canpushearningsabove∗∗
58,510∗∗,factorslike∗∗location,certification,andspecialization∗∗canpushearningsabove∗∗75,000.
If you’re looking for a lucrative healthcare career without needing a four-year degree, becoming a surgical tech is an excellent choice. With the right certifications and experience, you can maximize your earning potential in this high-demand field.
Would you like to explore surgical tech programs near you? Start researching accredited schools today to take the first step toward a well-paying career in surgery!
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