How to become surgical technologistseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$64,650
25th–75th pct. $54,690–$79,750
Top pay (est.)
$126,000
Top 10% $96,940
Pay in 5 years
$76,100est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$89,600est.
$77,000–$104,000
Outlook score
58/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
15%
Very low
Job growth (10 yr)
+5.0%
7,100 openings / yr
How to become surgical technologists
Typical education
Postsecondary nondegree award
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Surgical Technologists
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Assisting and Caring for OthersHandling and Moving ObjectsUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
Important abilities
Near VisionOral ComprehensionArm-Hand SteadinessProblem SensitivityOral ExpressionSelective Attention
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as surgical technologists
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.