Surgical first assistants: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more
Surgical first assistants have a hands-on role, directly assisting surgeons during a procedure. For instance, they may help to suction the incision site or suture a wound.
- Education Required
- Surgical technologists typically need postsecondary education. Many community colleges and vocational schools, as well as some universities and hospitals, have accredited programs in surgical technology. Programs range in length from several months to 2 years, and they grant a diploma, certificate, or associates degree upon completion. Admission typically requires a high school diploma or the equivalent.
- Job Outlook
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The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 12% (Faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Advancement
- Surgical technologists may choose to advance to other healthcare occupations, such as registered nurse. Advancement to other healthcare occupations would usually require additional education, training, and/or certifications or licenses. A technologist may also choose to become a postsecondary teacher of health specialties.
- Licenses/Certifications
- Certification can be beneficial in finding a job. Surgical technologists may earn certification through credentialing organizations.
- Median pay: How much do Surgical Technologists make?
- $45,160 Annual Salary
- $21.71 per hour
Careers for Surgical Technologists
- CSTs
- Certified surgical technologists
- OR techs
- Operating room technicians
- Surgical scrub technologists
- Surgical technicians
- TS-Cs