Surgical technologists receive their training in formal programs offered by community and junior colleges, vocational schools, hospitals, and the military. In 1997, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) recognized 145 accredited programs. Programs last 9 to 24 months and lead to a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Shorter programs are designed for students who are already licensed practical nurses or military personnel.

According to a 1996 membership survey conducted by the Association of Surgical Technologists, the average annual salary for surgical technologists, excluding overtime or on-call pay, was about $25,000. Beginning technologists earned about $20,900 a year, while the most experienced technologists earned about $28,000 a year.

Employment of surgical technologists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2006 as the volume of surgery increases. Hospitals will continue to be the primary employer of surgical technologists, although much faster employment growth is expected in offices and clinics of physicians, including ambulatory surgical centers.

Surgical technologists, also called surgical or operating room technicians, assist in operations under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel.

Surgical technologists work in clean, well-lighted, cool environments. They must stand for long periods and remain alert during operations. Most surgical technologists work a regular 40-hour week, although they may be on call or work nights, weekends and holidays on a rotating basis.

Manual dexterity to handle instruments quickly.

Conscientious

Orderly

Emotionally stable

Must respond quickly and know procedures so well that they may have instruments ready for surgeons without having to be told.