Surgical tech jobs in Portland are available across major hospital systems, specialty surgical centers, and academic medical facilities throughout the metro area. This page highlights where surgical technologists commonly work locally, typical salaries, and certification expectations in Oregon.
Below you’ll find the latest surgical tech job openings in Portland.
Portland’s healthcare sector provides strong demand for surgical technologists, scrub techs, and operating room technicians.
Major employers include Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, Providence Portland Medical Center, and Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. Other large healthcare providers include Adventist Health Portland and Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center in the nearby metro area.
In addition to hospital operating rooms, surgical tech jobs are frequently available in outpatient surgery centers and specialty surgical clinics throughout the Portland metro region.
According to BLS data, surgical technologists in Oregon earn a mean annual wage of $68,120 and a median annual wage of $67,230. The 10th percentile wage is $49,200, while the 90th percentile reaches $89,020.
Pay varies based on experience, certification status, surgical specialty, and whether the role is in a hospital operating room or an ambulatory surgery center.
Oregon does not require statewide licensure or certification for surgical technologists. However, many hospitals prefer candidates who hold the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential.
Graduating from an accredited surgical technology program and earning certification can improve job prospects with major hospital systems in the Portland area.
Most surgical technologists complete an accredited surgical technology program that takes 12 to 24 months. Programs are offered at community colleges and technical schools and include classroom instruction plus clinical training in operating rooms.
CAAHEP or ABHES accreditation is typically required for graduates who plan to sit for the CST certification exam.
Portland’s cost of living is higher than many cities in the Pacific Northwest, largely driven by housing costs. However, surgical technologist salaries in Oregon are among the higher-paying markets nationally, helping offset the region’s higher living expenses.
View the latest openings in Portland.