North Carolina, known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cities, is also a hub for medical professionals, particularly surgical technologists. With a growing healthcare industry, the demand for skilled surgical techs is on the rise, making North Carolina an attractive destination for those looking to pursue a career in this field. In this article, we will explore 7 in-demand surgical tech jobs in North Carolina, providing an overview of the job market, required skills, and salary ranges.
The demand for surgical technologists in North Carolina is driven by the state's aging population, advancements in medical technology, and the need for quality patient care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of surgical technologists in North Carolina is projected to grow 12% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the national average. This growth is expected to create a high demand for skilled surgical techs, making it an excellent time to pursue a career in this field.
1. Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
A Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is a crucial member of the operating room team, responsible for preparing the operating room, maintaining a sterile environment, and assisting surgeons during procedures. To become a CST, one must obtain certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
Salary Range: $45,000 - $65,000 per year
Required Skills:
- Strong knowledge of surgical procedures and techniques
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to maintain a sterile environment
- Certification from the NBSTSA
2. Surgical First Assistant
A Surgical First Assistant (SFA) is a trained professional who assists the surgeon during procedures, providing technical expertise and support. SFAs may also be responsible for preparing patients for surgery, maintaining equipment, and ensuring a safe and efficient operating room environment.
Salary Range: $50,000 - $75,000 per year
Required Skills:
- Strong knowledge of surgical procedures and techniques
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to maintain a sterile environment
- Certification from the NBSTSA
3. Operating Room Technician
An Operating Room Technician (ORT) is responsible for preparing the operating room, maintaining equipment, and assisting surgical teams during procedures. ORTs may also be responsible for sterilizing equipment and supplies, and maintaining a safe and efficient operating room environment.
Salary Range: $40,000 - $60,000 per year
Required Skills:
- Strong knowledge of surgical procedures and techniques
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to maintain a sterile environment
- Certification from the NBSTSA
4. Surgical Technologist - Cardiovascular
A Surgical Technologist - Cardiovascular (ST-CV) is a specialized surgical technologist who assists cardiovascular surgeons during procedures. ST-CVs may also be responsible for preparing patients for surgery, maintaining equipment, and ensuring a safe and efficient operating room environment.
Salary Range: $55,000 - $80,000 per year
Required Skills:
- Strong knowledge of cardiovascular surgical procedures and techniques
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to maintain a sterile environment
- Certification from the NBSTSA
5. Surgical Technologist - Neurosurgery
A Surgical Technologist - Neurosurgery (ST-NS) is a specialized surgical technologist who assists neurosurgeons during procedures. ST-NSs may also be responsible for preparing patients for surgery, maintaining equipment, and ensuring a safe and efficient operating room environment.
Salary Range: $60,000 - $90,000 per year
Required Skills:
- Strong knowledge of neurosurgical procedures and techniques
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to maintain a sterile environment
- Certification from the NBSTSA
6. Surgical Technologist - Orthopedic
A Surgical Technologist - Orthopedic (ST-OR) is a specialized surgical technologist who assists orthopedic surgeons during procedures. ST-ORs may also be responsible for preparing patients for surgery, maintaining equipment, and ensuring a safe and efficient operating room environment.
Salary Range: $50,000 - $75,000 per year
Required Skills:
- Strong knowledge of orthopedic surgical procedures and techniques
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to maintain a sterile environment
- Certification from the NBSTSA
7. Travel Surgical Technologist
A Travel Surgical Technologist is a skilled professional who travels to different healthcare facilities to assist surgical teams during procedures. Travel surgical technologists may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers.
Salary Range: $60,000 - $100,000 per year
Required Skills:
- Strong knowledge of surgical procedures and techniques
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to maintain a sterile environment
- Certification from the NBSTSA
- Flexibility and willingness to travel
In conclusion, North Carolina offers a wide range of job opportunities for surgical technologists, from certified surgical technologists to specialized surgical technologists in cardiovascular, neurosurgery, and orthopedic fields. With a growing demand for skilled surgical techs, it's an excellent time to pursue a career in this field. Whether you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career or a chance to make a difference in the lives of others, a career as a surgical technologist in North Carolina may be the perfect choice for you.
We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below. If you're interested in learning more about surgical tech jobs in North Carolina or would like to explore other career opportunities, please feel free to reach out to us.
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist in North Carolina?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist in North Carolina ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and specialty.
What are the requirements to become a surgical technologist in North Carolina?
+To become a surgical technologist in North Carolina, one must obtain certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) and complete a surgical technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
What are the job prospects for surgical technologists in North Carolina?
+The job prospects for surgical technologists in North Carolina are excellent, with a growing demand for skilled surgical techs expected to create new job opportunities in the coming years.