Surgical Tech Salary In Arkansas: What You Can Expect

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Surgical technology is a rapidly growing field in the healthcare industry, and Arkansas is no exception. As a surgical technologist in the Natural State, you can expect a competitive salary and a rewarding career. In this article, we'll dive into the details of surgical tech salaries in Arkansas, including the average salary, factors that influence salary, and more.

The Importance of Surgical Technologists

Surgical technologists play a vital role in the operating room, assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. Their duties include preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and maintaining a safe and efficient environment for patients. With the increasing demand for surgical services, the need for skilled surgical technologists is on the rise.

Average Surgical Tech Salary in Arkansas

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for surgical technologists in Arkansas was $44,610 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, employer, level of experience, and education.

Here's a breakdown of average surgical tech salaries in Arkansas by city:

• Little Rock: $45,410
• Fayetteville: $43,610
• Springdale: $42,910
• Fort Smith: $41,810
• Jonesboro: $40,910

Factors That Influence Salary

Several factors can influence a surgical technologist's salary in Arkansas. Here are some of the most significant factors to consider:

• Location: Salaries can vary significantly depending on the location. Urban areas like Little Rock and Fayetteville tend to offer higher salaries than rural areas.
• Employer: Different employers, such as hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers, may offer varying salaries. Hospitals tend to offer higher salaries than smaller clinics or surgical centers.
• Level of Experience: More experienced surgical technologists can expect higher salaries. Entry-level positions may start at around $35,000, while experienced technologists can earn up to $60,000 or more.
• Education: While a diploma or certificate in surgical technology is often sufficient, having an associate's degree or higher can lead to higher salaries.
• Certification: Certified surgical technologists (CSTs) may earn higher salaries than non-certified technologists.

Certification and Education

To become a surgical technologist in Arkansas, you'll need to complete a training program in surgical technology and obtain certification. Here are the typical steps:

1. Earn a Diploma or Certificate: Complete a surgical technology program at a community college or vocational school.
2. Pass the Certification Exam: Pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
3. Maintain Certification: Complete continuing education requirements to maintain certification.

Salary by Employer

Here's a breakdown of average surgical tech salaries in Arkansas by employer:

• Hospitals: $46,310
• Clinics: $42,910
• Surgical Centers: $41,810
• Private Practices: $40,910

Salary by Level of Experience

Here's a breakdown of average surgical tech salaries in Arkansas by level of experience:

• Entry-Level (0-2 years): $35,610
• Mid-Level (2-5 years): $41,810
• Experienced (5-10 years): $50,410
• Senior-Level (10+ years): $61,010

Job Outlook

The job outlook for surgical technologists in Arkansas is promising. According to the BLS, employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, the demand for skilled surgical technologists is expected to remain high, especially in urban areas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, surgical technologists in Arkansas can expect a competitive salary and a rewarding career. While salaries may vary depending on factors such as location, employer, level of experience, and education, the average salary for surgical technologists in Arkansas is around $44,610. With the increasing demand for surgical services, the need for skilled surgical technologists is on the rise. By completing a training program in surgical technology, obtaining certification, and gaining experience, you can expect a successful and fulfilling career as a surgical technologist in Arkansas.

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