Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists are the essential team members who work alongside surgeons in the operating room. They prepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, hand tools to surgeons during procedures, and ensure everything runs smoothly during surgery. If you've ever watched a medical show and thought the OR looked exciting, being a surgical tech puts you right in the action.

Surgical technologists earn between $40,000 and $65,000 per year, with experienced techs in busy hospitals and surgical centers earning toward the higher end. The education path typically takes 1 to 2 years — you can earn a certificate or associate degree from an accredited surgical technology program.

After completing your program, you can earn the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential by passing a national exam. Many hospitals in the New York area actively recruit certified surgical techs and offer competitive benefits.

This career is ideal for people who thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments and are fascinated by medicine and surgery. Every day is different — you could assist in orthopedic surgery in the morning and a cardiac procedure in the afternoon. If you want to be part of a team that saves lives, surgical technology is an exciting and rewarding path.