If you're looking for surgical tech jobs in Iowa, this page helps you quickly find current openings while also explaining what to expect working as a surgical technologist in the state. Below you'll find information on certification expectations, salary levels, and where most scrub tech jobs are located.
The live job listings below show current surgical technologist openings across Iowa.
Iowa does not require state licensure or certification to work as a surgical technologist. However, most hospitals and surgical centers prefer candidates who have completed an accredited surgical technology program and hold the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential.
Programs accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES are considered the standard training pathway. Even though certification is not legally required, many employers expect surgical techs to obtain the CST credential either before hire or shortly after starting the role.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical technologists in Iowa earn a mean annual wage of $56,770 and a median annual wage of $56,420.
Actual pay varies based on experience, certification status, and the type of surgical facility. Operating room technicians working in large hospital systems or specialized surgical departments may earn higher wages than those in smaller community hospitals or outpatient surgery centers.
Most surgical technologist jobs in Iowa are located in the state’s larger healthcare markets and regional medical centers.
Major employers include UnityPoint Health, MercyOne, and University of Iowa Health Care, along with numerous regional hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers.
Surgical tech job opportunities are most concentrated in:
These areas host the largest hospitals, surgical centers, and specialty practices in the state.
Most employers expect candidates to complete a CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited surgical technology program, which typically takes 9 to 24 months depending on the credential offered.
After completing a program, many graduates pursue the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential to strengthen employment opportunities and meet employer preferences.
Iowa has a relatively low cost of living compared with many other states, particularly in housing and transportation. For surgical technologists, this often means salaries stretch further in cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Sioux City than in many larger metropolitan areas nationwide.
Find your next opportunity in Iowa.