🏥 Healthcare ↑ 7% growth · Faster than average

Surgical Technologist (Scrub Tech)

Surgical techs prepare the OR, arrange sterile instruments, and pass tools to surgeons during operations. They're in the room for open-heart surgeries, trauma cases, and C-sections. High-pressure, highly skilled, highly respected.

$54,330 Median Salary
116K US Jobs
12–24 months Training
$8,000–$25,000 Typical Cost

💰 Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages — local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$40,000
Median
$54,330
Experienced
$72,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

📈 Job Outlook

7%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Faster than average
116K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
CST
Required Credential
CST (NBSTSA)

🎓 Training & Education

Typical Program
Surgical Technology Certificate or AAS
Program Length
12–24 months
Typical Tuition
$8,000–$25,000
Work Setting
Hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, military
🏆 Credential Required: CST (NBSTSA)

☀️ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Surgical Technologist (Scrub Tech) involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Hospitals environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • ✅ Strong job security
  • ✅ Rewarding work
  • ✅ Clear career progression
  • ✅ Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Public State College
⭐ 95

Miami Dade College

📍 Miami, FL

Florida's largest college (~160K students). Broadest allied health program array in South Florida. Multiple campuses acr...

Nursing (RN)Respiratory CareDental HygieneRadiographySonography
Public State College
⭐ 94

Broward College

📍 Fort Lauderdale, FL

One of FL's largest state colleges serving Broward County. Comprehensive allied health and trades programs....

Nursing (RN)Respiratory CareDental HygieneCVTRadiography
Private University
⭐ 88

Keiser University

📍 Fort Lauderdale, FL

Florida-based university with campuses across the state. Excellent licensure pass rates and career-focused programs. Hig...

Nursing (RN/BSN)Surgical TechnologyDental HygieneRadiographyMRI Technology
Public State College
⭐ 91

Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)

📍 Jacksonville, FL

Northeast Florida's major community college serving the Jacksonville metro. Strong fire science and emergency services p...

Nursing (RN/LPN)Dental HygieneRadiographySonographySurgical Tech

🗺️ Surgical Technologist (Scrub Tech) by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: