A surgical technologist prepares operating rooms, sterilizes instruments, and assists surgeons during procedures. The work is hands-on, detail-oriented, and in demand. You can enter the field with an associate degree and no four-year commitment.
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Surgical technologists support the surgical team before, during, and after operations. You prepare the operating room by arranging instruments, equipment, and supplies in sterile conditions. During surgery, you hand instruments to the surgeon, monitor equipment, and help keep the field clean and organized. You handle and move instruments with precision, inspect equipment to ensure it meets safety standards, and identify the right tools for each step. You also assist with patient care, follow strict protocols, and stay alert to any issues that could affect the procedure's success.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Surgical Technologists earn a median of $64,650 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations, with about 7,000 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most surgical technologists earn an associate degree from a community college or technical school. The program typically includes classroom instruction in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and surgical procedures, along with hands-on lab work and clinical experience in real operating rooms. You will learn sterile technique, instrument identification, and how to work as part of a surgical team. Programs usually take two years to complete. After graduation, you may pursue certification through an exam, which is often preferred by employers and can boost your career prospects.
The main route into this career is an associate degree program at a community college or technical school. If you are exploring whether surgical technology fits your interests and timeline, Pathly can map the surgical technologist path that fits you with your counselor to map out the steps and find programs near you.
Many surgical technologists must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You thrive in hands-on, practical work. You pay close attention to detail, follow procedures carefully, and stay calm under pressure. You work well as part of a team and take pride in supporting others.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).