Surgical technologists, also known as surgical techs or operating room technicians, play a crucial role in medical procedures by assisting surgeons and ensuring that operating rooms are prepared for surgery. If you’re considering a career as a surgical tech, one of the most important factors to evaluate is salary potential. In this guide, we will explore how much surgical techs make, the factors that influence their salaries, and how you can maximize your earnings in this field.
Average Salary of Surgical Techs
The salary of a surgical tech can vary depending on location, experience, education, and specialization. According to recent data:
- The average annual salary for surgical techs in the United States is approximately $55,000.
- The median hourly wage for surgical technologists is around $26 per hour.
- Salaries can range from $40,000 for entry-level positions to $75,000 or more for experienced professionals in high-demand areas.
Factors That Influence Surgical Tech Salaries
1. Experience Level
- Entry-level (0-2 years): $40,000 – $50,000 per year
- Mid-career (3-7 years): $50,000 – $65,000 per year
- Experienced (8+ years): $65,000 – $80,000+ per year
2. Geographic Location
- Highest paying states:
- California: $70,000 – $80,000 per year
- Alaska: $68,000 – $78,000 per year
- Nevada: $65,000 – $75,000 per year
- Lowest paying states:
- Mississippi: $40,000 – $50,000 per year
- Arkansas: $42,000 – $52,000 per year
3. Work Setting
Surgical tech salaries also depend on the type of employer:
- Hospitals: $55,000 – $65,000 per year (largest employer of surgical techs)
- Outpatient care centers: $60,000 – $75,000 per year (highest paying setting)
- Physician offices: $50,000 – $60,000 per year
How to Increase Your Salary as a Surgical Tech
If you want to boost your earnings as a surgical technologist, consider the following strategies:
- Gain More Experience
- The more years you work in the field, the higher your earning potential. Employers value experienced surgical techs who can handle complex procedures with confidence.
- Specialize in High-Demand Areas
- Specializing in areas like cardiovascular surgery, neurosurgery, or orthopedic surgery can significantly increase your salary. These specializations require advanced skills, making you more valuable in the operating room.
- Earn Professional Certifications
- Becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.
- Additional certifications in robotic surgery, endoscopic procedures, or advanced sterilization techniques can further boost your credibility and income.
- Work Overtime or Take On-Call Shifts
- Many hospitals and surgical centers offer extra pay for overtime, night shifts, and weekend on-call duties. This can add thousands of dollars to your annual salary.
- Relocate to High-Paying States
- States like California, Alaska, and Nevada offer higher salaries for surgical techs due to increased demand and cost of living. Moving to one of these states can significantly boost your earnings.
Future Job Outlook for Surgical Techs
The demand for surgical technologists is expected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Several factors contribute to this steady job growth:
- Aging Population: With an increasing number of elderly patients requiring surgical procedures, the demand for skilled surgical techs continues to rise.
- Advancements in Medical Technology: The rise of robotic-assisted surgery and minimally invasive procedures has expanded the role of surgical techs, creating new job opportunities.
- Increased Healthcare Facilities: More hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialized surgical units are opening, leading to a greater need for qualified surgical technologists.
Conclusion
Surgical techs have promising career opportunities, with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $80,000+ depending on experience, location, and specialization. By gaining experience, obtaining certifications, and working in high-paying states or facilities, you can maximize your earning potential. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, surgical technology offers a rewarding path with competitive salaries.
