Surgical Technologist Career Resources

At American Career College, we’re dedicated to helping you transition from training to practice.

Whether you're enrolled in or have completed ACC’s Surgical Technology program, having visibility into what a career as a surgical technologist looks like will help you prepare for this rewarding role.

You can also explore more about the surgical technologist profession and how to become a surgical tech in California

Surgical Technologist Job Overview

Surgical technologists (also called surgical techs or operating room techs) are critical members of the surgical team who work under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, and surgical assistants.

Surgical tech duties include preparing the operating room, maintaining sterile environments, passing instruments during procedures, and assisting with tasks like counting sponges, sutures, and supplies.

Sample Job Titles

Depending on your credentials, specialization, and employer, you might see roles like:

Surgical Technologist (Surgical Tech)
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)*
Operating Room Technician (OR Tech)
Surgical Scrub Technician
Surgical Assistant (requires additional training)
Surgical Instrument Technician

*Certification required or strongly preferred

Sample Responsibilities

A surgical technologist’s responsibilities may vary from day to day based on the particular healthcare environment. Generally, the workday of a surgical tech might involve:

Preparing operating rooms, ensuring all instruments, supplies, and sterile materials are ready
Assisting the surgical team during procedures by passing instruments, holding retractors, and handling tissues
Maintaining sterile fields and monitoring instrument counts (sponges, needles, etc.)
Cleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining surgical equipment and instruments
Positioning patients and preparing them for surgery
Transporting surgical specimens and assisting with post-operative room turnover
Helping monitor and adjust surgical equipment, such as suction, lights, and surgical instruments
Documenting procedures, tracking supplies, and coordinating with surgical team members

Top Qualities & Skills for Surgical Technologists

Attention to Detail – Essential for maintaining sterile technique and ensuring nothing is missed
Manual Dexterity – Ability to handle instruments precisely and quickly
Stamina & Physical Endurance – Operating rooms often require long hours on your feet
Communication & Teamwork – Clear communication with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists is critical
Problem-Solving – Quickly adapting when surgical plans change or unexpected issues arise

For more information, see the O*NET Occupational Profile for Surgical Technologists.

Preparing for the Job Search

To help you land your first role as a surgical technologist, make sure your professional materials and readiness levels are strong.

Surgical Tech Resume Tips

Highlight your clinical rotation or externship experience in surgical settings
List certifications like CST, sterile processing competencies, or any advanced specialties
Emphasize technical skills (instrument knowledge, sterilization, OR workflows)
Mention any experience with different surgical specialties (orthopedic, neurosurgery, cardiovascular, etc.)

Download ST Resume Sample

Cover Letter Guidance

Express your passion for surgical patient care and operating room work
Describe hands-on training, exposure to surgeries, or commitment to sterile technique
Tailor the letter by referencing the hospital’s surgical values or specialties

Download ST Cover Letter Sample

Interview Preparation

During surgical technologist interviews, you may be asked:

Describe a time you had to maintain sterility under pressure
How do you ensure sponge/instrument counts are accurate?
What would you do if a needed instrument was missing mid-procedure?
How do you adapt when a surgical plan changes unexpectedly?
Describe a time you made a mistake in the OR and how you corrected it.
How do you prioritize tasks in the OR?

Career Services Tip: Use specific examples from your clinical rotations or lab work to demonstrate your technical knowledge and composure.

Professional Development & Career Growth

After you secure your first role, there are several pathways to advance:

Specialize in certain surgical areas (e.g. cardiovascular, neurosurgery, orthopedics)
Become a first surgical assistant with more training and experience
Advance into supervisory or management roles within surgical services
Transition into teaching or training surgical technologists
Explore roles in device sales or surgical equipment support

FAQs

What certifications or credentials do I need as a surgical technologist?

Certain employers may require that you earn the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential from NBSTSA. Some roles or states may require additional licensure or certifications.

What should I include on my surgical technologist resume?

Your surgical tech resume should include your education, surgical rotations or lab experience, certification(s), technical competencies (e.g., instrument knowledge, sterilization protocols), and any exposure to surgical specialties.

How can ACC Career Services help?

ACC’s Career Services team offers support with resume building, mock interviews, and professional coaching to help you confidently enter the surgical technology field.

ACC provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.

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