The demand for skilled healthcare professionals is on the rise, and surgical technologists are no exception. As a crucial member of the operating room team, surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, play a vital role in ensuring the success of surgical procedures. If you're considering a career as a surgical technologist in North Carolina, one of the most important factors to consider is the salary. In this article, we'll delve into the average surgical tech salary in NC, factors that influence salaries, and what you can expect in terms of job prospects and growth opportunities.
Surgical Tech Salary in NC: Average Salaries and Ranges
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for surgical technologists in North Carolina was $48,330 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer. Here are some average salary ranges for surgical technologists in NC:
- Entry-level (0-2 years of experience): $40,000 - $45,000 per year
- Mid-level (2-5 years of experience): $45,000 - $55,000 per year
- Experienced (5-10 years of experience): $55,000 - $65,000 per year
- Senior-level (10+ years of experience): $65,000 - $75,000 per year
Factors That Influence Surgical Tech Salaries in NC
Several factors can influence surgical tech salaries in NC, including:
- Location: Salaries can vary depending on the location within the state. For example, surgical technologists working in urban areas such as Charlotte or Raleigh-Durham may earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas.
- Employer: Salaries can vary depending on the type of employer. For example, surgical technologists working in hospitals may earn higher salaries than those working in outpatient surgery centers or physician offices.
- Experience: More experienced surgical technologists tend to earn higher salaries than those with less experience.
- Certification: Certified surgical technologists (CSTs) may earn higher salaries than non-certified surgical technologists.
- Education: Surgical technologists with higher levels of education, such as an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree, may earn higher salaries than those with lower levels of education.
How to Become a Surgical Technologist in NC
To become a surgical technologist in NC, you'll need to complete a surgical technology program approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs typically take one to two years to complete and include both classroom and clinical training.
Surgical Technology Programs in NC
Some popular surgical technology programs in NC include:
- Central Piedmont Community College: Offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Surgical Technology
- Forsyth Technical Community College: Offers an AAS degree in Surgical Technology
- Wake Technical Community College: Offers an AAS degree in Surgical Technology
Certification and Licensure
While certification is not required to practice as a surgical technologist in NC, it is highly recommended. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which is the most common certification for surgical technologists.
Job Prospects and Growth Opportunities
The demand for surgical technologists is expected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an increasing demand for healthcare services, particularly in the areas of surgery and patient care.
Top Employers for Surgical Technologists in NC
Some top employers for surgical technologists in NC include:
- Duke University Health System: A large healthcare system with multiple hospitals and clinics in the Raleigh-Durham area
- Carolinas HealthCare System: A large healthcare system with multiple hospitals and clinics in the Charlotte area
- WakeMed Health & Hospitals: A large healthcare system with multiple hospitals and clinics in the Raleigh area
Gallery of Surgical Technologists in NC
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist in NC?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist in NC is around $48,330 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What are the top employers for surgical technologists in NC?
+Some top employers for surgical technologists in NC include Duke University Health System, Carolinas HealthCare System, and WakeMed Health & Hospitals.
What is the job outlook for surgical technologists in NC?
+The job outlook for surgical technologists in NC is positive, with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In conclusion, the surgical tech salary in NC is competitive, with average salaries ranging from $40,000 to $75,000 per year. With a positive job outlook and numerous job opportunities available, a career as a surgical technologist in NC can be a rewarding and challenging profession.