How This Estimator Works
This tool estimates surgical technologist pay ranges based on your location, job title, years of experience, and specialty. Estimates pull from labor market data sources including the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and NBSTSA wage surveys.
Enter your information above to see your estimated hourly range, annual salary, and how your pay compares to other surgical techs in your market.
What Affects Surgical Tech Pay
Surgical tech salaries vary significantly depending on where you work, what you specialize in, and how you are employed. The biggest factors include:
Location. Surgical techs in California, New York, Washington, and Massachusetts consistently earn more than the national average. Rural markets and lower cost-of-living states tend to pay less, though the gap has narrowed in recent years due to travel contract demand.
Specialty. Cardiovascular, neurosurgery, robotics, and orthopedics typically pay more than general surgery. If you have trained in a high-demand specialty and are not being paid for it, that is worth addressing with your employer or exploring in the travel market.
Certification. Holding your CST through the NBSTSA or TS-C through the NCCT adds roughly $1 to $4 per hour above non-certified peers at the same experience level. CSFA certification for surgical first assists carries the largest premium.
Employment type. Travel and contract surgical techs often earn significantly more per hour than staff positions, but without benefits or PTO. PRN and per diem rates also run above staff rates to offset the lack of guaranteed hours.
Shift. Night and evening differentials in surgical settings typically range from $2 to $5 per hour depending on the facility and state.
Surgical Tech Pay Ranges by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Typical Hourly Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (0–2 years) | $20 – $27/hr |
| Early career (2–5 years, certified) | $26 – $36/hr |
| Experienced (5–10 years, multi-specialty) | $34 – $46/hr |
| Lead or specialty-focused tech | $44 – $58/hr |
| Supervisor or OR coordinator | $52 – $72+/hr |
| Travel or contract surgical tech | $40 – $75+/hr |
Ready to Find a Higher-Paying Role?
Browse surgical tech jobs near you on ScrubTechJobs.com and filter by location, specialty, and employment type.
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