What Do They Do?
What Do They Do?
Surgical technologists, or operating room technicians, assist in surgeries under the supervision of physicians and nurses. They prepare the operating room, set up instruments, and transport and position patients. During surgery, they pass instruments, monitor vital signs, and assist with tasks like holding retractors and cutting sutures. After surgery, they help transfer patients and clean the operating room. With additional training, certified surgical technologists may take on advanced roles like surgical first assistants or circulators, who monitor operating room conditions and assist the surgical team with more technical tasks.
Where Do They Work?
Where Do They Work?
Most surgical technologists work in operating rooms and delivery rooms in hospitals. Other surgical technologists work in outpatient surgical centers, physician offices, or dental offices.
How Much Do They Earn?
How Much Do They Earn?
Annual median salary: $76,421
Entry-level salary: $54,118
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Searchable Wage Database: https://dol.ny.gov/occupational-wages-0
Supply and Demand
Supply and Demand
Surgical technologists are expected to grow statewide by 27% between 2022 and 2032, with more than 650 average annual openings.
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Employment Projections: https://dol.ny.gov/employment-projections
Educational Requirements
Educational Requirements
Surgical technologists receive training through 9 to 24 month programs at community colleges or vocational schools, leading to a certificate or an associate degree. Programs combine classroom instruction in subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical terminology with supervised clinical experience. Training covers patient care, sterilization, infection control, and handling surgical supplies and equipment.
For More Information:
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs:
Licensure Requirements
Licensure Requirements
New York does not require surgical technologists to be licensed, though many employers prefer to hire certified surgical technologists.
For More Information:
National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting:
https://www.nbstsa.org/cst-first-timeretake-applicants
National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants:
https://www.csaexam.com/becoming-a-csa/examination/
American Board of Surgical Assistants:
https://absa.net/application-form/
National Center for Competency Testing:
Financial Support
Financial Support
Financial support can come from various federal, state, and private sources. Contact your college or university to learn about the financial aid options they offer, as well as other potential sources of funding that may be available.
For More Information:
The Foundation for Surgical Technology:
http://ffst.org/scholarships/academic-scholarships/
Education Programs
Education Programs
| Institution | Degree | City/Town | Region | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Western Suffolk BOCES | Certificate | Northport | Long Island | Visit |
Trocaire College | AAS | Buffalo | Western NY | Visit |
Swedish Institute | AOS | New York City | New York City | Visit |
SUNY Niagara Community College | AAS | Sanborn | Western NY | Visit |
Suffolk County Community College | AAS | Brentwood | Long Island | Visit |
Onondaga Community College | AAS | Syracuse | Central NY | Visit |
New York University | Certificate | New York City | New York City | Visit |
Monroe University | AAS | New Rochelle | Hudson Valley | Visit |
Nassau Community College | AAS | Garden City | Long Island | Visit |
Monroe Community College | AAS | Rochester | Finger Lakes | Visit |
Mohawk Valley Community College | AAS | Utica | Central NY | Visit |
Medical Training Institute of New York | Certificate | New York City | New York City | Visit |
Long Island University | AAS | Brooklyn | New York City | Visit |
Mandl School | AOS | New York City | New York City | Visit |
Kingsborough Community College CUNY | AAS | Brooklyn | New York City | Visit |
Hudson Valley Community College | AAS | Troy | Capital Region | Visit |