The medical field is a highly respected and in-demand industry, with numerous career paths that can lead to rewarding and lucrative opportunities. One such career path is that of a surgical technologist, also known as an operating room technician or scrub tech. Surgical technologists play a vital role in the operating room, ensuring that surgical procedures are performed safely and efficiently. If you're considering a career as a surgical technologist in Pennsylvania, you may be wondering what kind of salary you can expect.
Pennsylvania is a large and populous state with numerous top-ranked medical institutions, making it an ideal location for surgical technologists to find employment. In this article, we'll explore the top 5 surgical tech salaries in PA, as well as provide information on the job requirements, educational pathways, and growth prospects for this in-demand career.
What is a Surgical Technologist?
A surgical technologist is a medical professional who assists surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses during surgical procedures. Their primary responsibilities include:
- Preparing the operating room for surgery
- Maintaining asepsis and sterility
- Assisting with patient care
- Passing instruments and supplies to surgeons
- Maintaining accurate records of surgical procedures
Top 5 Surgical Tech Salaries in PA
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and online job postings, here are the top 5 surgical tech salaries in PA:
- Pittsburgh: $54,310 - $73,490 per year
Pittsburgh is home to numerous top-ranked medical institutions, including the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Allegheny Health Network. Surgical technologists in Pittsburgh can earn a competitive salary, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $73,490 per year.
- Philadelphia: $52,410 - $70,390 per year
Philadelphia is another major city in PA with a high demand for surgical technologists. With numerous top-ranked hospitals, including the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, surgical technologists in Philadelphia can earn a competitive salary, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $70,390 per year.
- Allentown: $48,110 - $65,290 per year
Allentown is a smaller city in eastern PA, but it still offers competitive salaries for surgical technologists. With hospitals like Lehigh Valley Hospital and St. Luke's University Health Network, surgical technologists in Allentown can earn a salary ranging from $48,110 to $65,290 per year.
- Erie: $45,610 - $62,390 per year
Erie is a city located in northwestern PA, with a smaller but still competitive job market for surgical technologists. With hospitals like UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital, surgical technologists in Erie can earn a salary ranging from $45,610 to $62,390 per year.
- Harrisburg: $44,110 - $60,490 per year
Harrisburg is the capital city of PA, with a moderate job market for surgical technologists. With hospitals like Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle, surgical technologists in Harrisburg can earn a salary ranging from $44,110 to $60,490 per year.
Job Requirements and Educational Pathways
To become a surgical technologist, you typically need to complete a post-secondary education program in surgical technology, which can take around 12-18 months to complete. These programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and universities, and typically include both classroom and clinical training.
Growth Prospects
The demand for surgical technologists is expected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, this growth is still driven by an aging population and an increased need for surgical procedures.
Gallery of Surgical Tech Salaries in PA
FAQs
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist in PA?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist in PA ranges from $40,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on location and experience.
What kind of education do I need to become a surgical technologist?
+To become a surgical technologist, you typically need to complete a post-secondary education program in surgical technology, which can take around 12-18 months to complete.
What are the job prospects for surgical technologists in PA?
+The demand for surgical technologists is expected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information on the top 5 surgical tech salaries in PA. If you're considering a career as a surgical technologist, we encourage you to research further and explore the many opportunities available in this rewarding and in-demand field.