How Much Do Surgical Techs Make an Hour?

Surgical technologists, often referred to as surgical techs or scrub techs, are essential members of surgical teams who assist surgeons and other healthcare professionals during surgical procedures. If you’re considering a career as a surgical tech, you may be interested in understanding the hourly wage you can expect in this field. In this article, we’ll explore how much surgical techs typically make per hour and the factors that influence their hourly rates.

Average Hourly Wage for Surgical Techs

The hourly wage for surgical techs can vary depending on several factors, including location, experience, education, certification, and the type of healthcare facility. However, let’s consider a general overview of the average hourly wage for surgical techs in the United States.

As of my knowledge cutoff date in January 2022, the median hourly wage for surgical technologists in the United States typically ranged from $20 to $28 per hour. It’s important to note that hourly rates can vary significantly based on geographic location, with higher wages often found in metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living.

Factors Influencing Surgical Tech Hourly Wages

Several factors can influence the hourly wages of surgical techs:

1. Location:

Geographic location plays a significant role in determining hourly wages. Surgical techs working in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living generally earn higher hourly rates than those in rural areas.

2. Experience:

Experience is a key factor in salary determination. Surgical techs with several years of experience tend to command higher hourly wages than entry-level techs.

3. Education and Certification:

While formal education and certification are not always mandatory, many surgical techs complete accredited surgical technology programs and obtain certification from organizations like the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Having relevant education and certification can lead to higher-paying job opportunities.

4. Healthcare Facility:

The type of healthcare facility also affects hourly wages. Surgical techs working in larger hospitals or academic medical centers may earn more per hour than those in smaller clinics or outpatient surgical centers.

5. Shift Differentials:

In some healthcare settings, surgical techs who work night shifts, weekends, or holidays may receive higher hourly rates through shift differentials.

Career Outlook for Surgical Techs

The job outlook for surgical techs is generally positive. With advancements in healthcare and an aging population, there is a continued demand for surgical procedures, which, in turn, increases the need for skilled surgical techs. This demand can positively impact job opportunities and potential salary growth in the field.

Conclusion

Surgical techs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of surgical procedures. While hourly wages can vary based on location, experience, education, certification, and the healthcare facility, pursuing a career as a surgical tech can be both professionally fulfilling and financially rewarding. As you consider this career path, it’s essential to research the specific hourly wage expectations in your region and explore opportunities for professional development and certification to enhance your earning potential.