Surgical technology is a vital profession that plays a critical role in the healthcare system. Also known as operating room technicians, surgical techs are responsible for preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, and assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. If you're considering a career as a surgical tech in Oklahoma, you're likely curious about the average pay rates in the state.
Oklahoma is home to numerous hospitals, surgical centers, and medical facilities that employ surgical techs. While salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer, we'll provide an overview of the average pay rates for surgical techs in Oklahoma.
Surgical Tech Salaries in Oklahoma: Average Pay Rates
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for surgical technologists in Oklahoma was $48,490 in May 2020. However, salaries can range from around $35,000 to over $65,000 per year, depending on the specific employer, location, and level of experience.
Here are some average salary ranges for surgical techs in Oklahoma:
- Entry-level surgical techs (0-2 years of experience): $35,000 - $45,000 per year
- Mid-level surgical techs (2-5 years of experience): $45,000 - $55,000 per year
- Experienced surgical techs (5-10 years of experience): $55,000 - $65,000 per year
- Senior surgical techs (10+ years of experience): $65,000 - $75,000 per year
It's worth noting that salaries can vary significantly depending on the specific location within Oklahoma. For example, surgical techs working in larger cities like Oklahoma City or Tulsa may earn higher salaries than those working in smaller towns or rural areas.
Highest Paying Cities for Surgical Techs in Oklahoma
Here are some of the highest paying cities for surgical techs in Oklahoma:
- Oklahoma City: $52,000 - $65,000 per year
- Tulsa: $50,000 - $62,000 per year
- Norman: $48,000 - $60,000 per year
- Edmond: $46,000 - $58,000 per year
- Broken Arrow: $45,000 - $56,000 per year
Top Employers for Surgical Techs in Oklahoma
Some of the top employers for surgical techs in Oklahoma include:
- Oklahoma City VA Health Care System
- University of Oklahoma Medical Center
- Integris Health
- Saint Francis Health System
- Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City
How to Increase Your Salary as a Surgical Tech in Oklahoma
While salaries for surgical techs in Oklahoma are competitive, there are several ways to increase your earning potential:
- Gain experience: The more experience you have, the higher your salary is likely to be.
- Obtain specialized certifications: Certifications like the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession.
- Pursue a degree: While not always required, having a degree in surgical technology or a related field can be beneficial for career advancement and higher salaries.
- Consider working in a larger city: As mentioned earlier, surgical techs working in larger cities like Oklahoma City or Tulsa may earn higher salaries than those working in smaller towns or rural areas.
Conclusion
Surgical techs play a vital role in the healthcare system, and Oklahoma is home to numerous employers that offer competitive salaries. While salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer, we hope this article has provided a helpful overview of the average pay rates for surgical techs in Oklahoma. By gaining experience, obtaining specialized certifications, pursuing a degree, and considering working in a larger city, you can increase your earning potential and build a successful career as a surgical tech in Oklahoma.
Gallery of Surgical Tech Salaries in Oklahoma
FAQs
What is the average salary for a surgical tech in Oklahoma?
+The average salary for a surgical tech in Oklahoma is around $48,490 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What are the highest paying cities for surgical techs in Oklahoma?
+The highest paying cities for surgical techs in Oklahoma include Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Edmond, and Broken Arrow.
How can I increase my salary as a surgical tech in Oklahoma?
+Gain experience, obtain specialized certifications, pursue a degree, and consider working in a larger city to increase your earning potential as a surgical tech in Oklahoma.