Explore academic and career opportunities in Surgical Technology within the Technical and Career subcategory. Discover roles in teaching, research, and clinical settings, offering pathways to advance in healthcare education and practice.
Are you passionate about Surgical Technology faculty jobs? This dynamic field equips aspiring surgical technologists—also known as scrub techs or operating room technicians—with the essential skills to support surgeons during life-saving procedures. Surgical technologists prepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, anticipate surgeons' needs by passing tools seamlessly, and ensure sterile environments to prevent infections. For novices, imagine being the unsung hero behind every successful surgery, from routine appendectomies to complex organ transplants.
Career pathways in Surgical Technology are accessible and rewarding, starting with entry-level roles and ascending to influential faculty positions. Begin with a certificate or associate degree from an accredited program recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP (CAAHEP)). Pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Gain 1-2 years of hands-on experience in hospitals or ambulatory surgery centers, where median salaries hover around $60,470 annually according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023 data), with top earners exceeding $80,000 in high-demand areas like California and New York.
Transitioning to faculty roles requires a bachelor's degree in Surgical Technology, health sciences, or education, plus teaching credentials. Community colleges and vocational schools seek instructors to train the next wave amid a projected 5% job growth through 2032, driven by an aging population and rising surgical volumes. Salaries for Surgical Technology instructors typically range from $55,000 to $85,000, varying by location and experience—check professor salaries for detailed breakdowns. Networking at conferences hosted by the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) can open doors; many faculty start as clinical preceptors.
Students, your opportunities abound in specialized programs at institutions like St. Philip's College in Texas, Miami Dade College in Florida, or Purdue Global for online options. These novice-friendly courses cover anatomy, microbiology, pharmacology, and hands-on simulations using mannequins and virtual reality. Graduates are primed for certification and immediate employment. Explore feedback on instructors via Rate My Professor for Surgical Technology courses to choose wisely.
Thriving globally, demand surges in the US (/us), UK (/jobs-ac-uk), and Australia, with urban hubs like New York (/us/new-york/new-york) and London (/uk/london) offering premium pay. Actionable tip: Build a standout resume with clinical hours—use our free resume template. For career advice, read how to become a lecturer.
Ready to shape future surgical pros? Browse thousands of openings on higher-ed-jobs, including community college jobs and adjunct professor jobs. Visit Rate My Professor for Surgical Technology faculty insights, compare professor salaries, and check higher-ed career advice. Your journey starts here—search Surgical Technology faculty jobs now!
Surgical Technology, the backbone of modern operating rooms (ORs), encompasses the specialized skills and knowledge required to support surgical teams in delivering safe, efficient procedures. Surgical technologists—also known as operating room technicians, scrubs, or techs—play a pivotal role by preparing sterile environments, assembling instruments, anticipating surgeons' needs, and ensuring patient safety during operations ranging from routine appendectomies to complex organ transplants.
The profession's history traces back to the post-World War II era when formalized training began to address the growing complexity of surgeries. In 1969, the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) was founded, marking the field's professionalization. The first certification exam for Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) launched in 1970, setting standards that continue to evolve with advancements like robotic-assisted surgery and minimally invasive techniques.
Today, Surgical Technology remains critically relevant amid surging surgical volumes driven by an aging population and technological innovations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports approximately 114,480 surgical technologists employed in 2023, with 7,200 annual openings projected through 2032—a 5% growth rate matching national averages. Median annual wage stands at $60,610, with top earners exceeding $80,000 in high-demand areas. For faculty aspiring to teach Surgical Technology, opportunities are expanding as accredited programs proliferate to meet workforce needs; instructors often earn $55,000–$85,000 depending on experience and location, as detailed on professor salaries resources.
Key concepts include aseptic technique (maintaining sterility to prevent infections), surgical instrumentation (knowing thousands of tools by sight and function), and teamwork in high-stakes environments. Examples abound: a tech might drape a patient for laparoscopic surgery or manage endoscopy equipment during gastrointestinal procedures. Implications are profound—skilled techs reduce errors, shorten OR times, and improve outcomes, directly impacting patient lives.
For jobseekers targeting Surgical Technology faculty jobs, start with CST certification via accredited diploma or associate programs (often 1–2 years), then pursue a bachelor's for teaching roles. Network through AST events and review Rate My Professor for insights on top Surgical Technology educators. Students, explore higher ed jobs listings while enrolling in Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)-approved courses at specializing institutions like Pima Medical Institute or Community College of Philadelphia. Actionable tip: Gain hands-on experience via clinical rotations, then leverage higher ed career advice to land adjunct positions.
Demand thrives in healthcare hubs; check openings in Los Angeles, Houston, or New York. Visit the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) or CAAHEP for verified programs and trends. Rate your Surgical Technology professors on Rate My Professor and explore faculty jobs to kickstart your path.
Embarking on a career in Surgical Technology means preparing operating rooms, assisting surgeons during procedures, and ensuring patient safety in high-stakes environments. Surgical technologists, often called operating room technicians or scrubs, play a vital role in surgical teams. To enter this dynamic field, especially for faculty positions teaching aspiring technologists at community colleges or vocational schools, you'll need a blend of education, certifications, hands-on experience, and key skills. Whether you're a jobseeker eyeing Surgical Technology faculty jobs or a student exploring pathways, mastering these qualifications opens doors to rewarding roles with strong demand.
Start with a postsecondary program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Most Surgical Technology programs offer diplomas (9-12 months) or associate degrees (1-2 years), covering anatomy, microbiology, surgical procedures, and pharmacology. For faculty roles, a bachelor's degree in Surgical Technology, nursing, or a related field is often required, with some programs preferring a master's for program directors. Top institutions like Pima Community College or Rochester Community and Technical College exemplify rigorous training. Gain clinical experience through internships to build your resume—check higher-ed-jobs for openings.
Certification is non-negotiable for credibility and employability. Pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) from the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). These require program completion and validate sterile technique and instrumentation knowledge. Renew every 4 years with continuing education. Faculty must hold current credentials per CAAHEP standards. Visit the NBSTSA website for exam details and CAAHEP for accredited programs.
Average entry-level surgical technologists earn $60,000 USD annually (BLS 2023), with faculty salaries ranging $55,000-$85,000 based on location and experience—explore professor salaries for benchmarks.
Tips for Jobseekers: Highlight clinical hours and certifications in applications for community college jobs. Relocate to high-demand areas like /us/ca/los-angeles or /us/tx/houston for better opportunities. Read career advice on becoming a lecturer. Research Surgical Technology professors on Rate My Professor to prepare for interviews. With U.S. job growth projected at 5% through 2032 (BLS), proactive steps like these position you for success in academia.
Embarking on a career in Surgical Technology offers a dynamic entry into healthcare, where you'll assist surgeons during operations, manage sterile fields, and ensure patient safety. For those aspiring to faculty roles teaching Surgical Technology—preparing the next generation of technologists—the journey combines hands-on clinical experience with advanced education. This pathway suits detail-oriented individuals passionate about medicine and education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), surgical technologist jobs are projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033, faster than average, with median annual wages around $60,610 in 2023—rising for experienced instructors.
Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a Surgical Technology instructor, tailored for novices. Start with a high school diploma or GED, focusing on biology, anatomy, and math. Enroll in an accredited program from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs teach sterile techniques, surgical procedures, pharmacology, and anatomy.
| Stage | Duration | Cumulative Time | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|---|
| High School/GED | 4 years | 0 years | Build foundational science knowledge |
| Surgical Tech Certificate/Associate Degree | 9-24 months | 1-2 years | Complete coursework and clinical rotations |
| Certification (CST via NBSTSA) | 1-3 months prep/exam | 2 years | Pass national exam; NBSTSA |
| Clinical Experience | 2-5 years | 4-7 years | Work in operating rooms; build resume |
| Bachelor's in Allied Health/Education | 2-4 years (often part-time) | 6-11 years | Enhance teaching skills |
| Master's (for advanced faculty) | 1-2 years | 7-13 years | Qualify for tenure-track positions |
Common Pitfalls and Advice: Avoid rushing without certification—85% of employers require it, per AST.org. Gain diverse experience across specialties like orthopedics or cardiology to stand out. Pitfall: Burnout from irregular OR hours; prioritize work-life balance. Actionable tip: Shadow instructors at local community colleges and network via Rate My Professor reviews of Surgical Technology faculty. Explore professor salaries in Surgical Technology, averaging $65,000-$85,000 for instructors at institutions like Miami Dade College.
For U.S. opportunities, hotspots include California (/us/ca) and Texas (/us/tx). Students, browse faculty jobs and rate Surgical Technology professors. Aspiring instructors, leverage career advice and apply via AcademicJobs.com. Your expertise can shape future surgical teams!
Understanding salaries and compensation in Surgical Technology is crucial for jobseekers eyeing faculty roles like instructors or program directors at community colleges and vocational schools. Surgical Technology, the field training professionals to assist surgeons during operations (also known as operating room technicians), offers competitive pay driven by high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2023), the median annual wage for surgical technologists is $60,610, but faculty positions command higher averages of $65,000 to $85,000 USD, with program directors earning up to $95,000 or more based on experience.
Breakdowns vary by role and location. Entry-level Surgical Technology instructors start at $55,000-$70,000, while experienced Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) educators with a bachelor's degree reach $80,000+. In high-demand states like California, averages hit $72,000 (Surgical Technology jobs in California), compared to $58,000 in Texas. Urban hubs like New York City boost pay to $75,000+ due to cost of living.
| Role | Average Salary (USD) | Top Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Instructor | $65,000-$80,000 | California, Florida |
| Program Director | $85,000-$110,000 | New York, Texas |
| Clinical Coordinator | $70,000-$90,000 | Illinois, Pennsylvania |
Trends show steady growth: BLS projects 5% job increase through 2032, with faculty salaries rising 6-8% over the past five years amid shortages. Factors influencing pay include certifications (CST via NBSTSA), years of OR experience (minimum 2-5 for faculty), advanced degrees, and unionized institutions. Negotiate by showcasing clinical hours, student outcomes, and willingness to develop curricula—aim for 10-15% above offers.
Benefits packages add 20-30% value. Internationally, Canadian Surgical Technology instructors earn CAD 70,000-90,000, while UK equivalents (Operating Department Practitioners) average £30,000-£45,000. Compare with professor salaries across disciplines. Check Rate My Professor for insights on Surgical Technology faculty at top programs like Oregon Institute of Technology. For personalized advice, visit BLS Surgical Technologists page or higher ed career advice.
Surgical Technology careers, including faculty positions in training programs, show varied demand across regions influenced by population growth, aging demographics, and healthcare infrastructure. In the United States, the field thrives due to a projected 5% job growth for surgical technologists from 2023 to 2033, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, driving need for educators. High-demand areas like the Sun Belt states offer abundant opportunities in community colleges and vocational schools, while urban centers face competition but higher salaries.
Globally, Canada sees strong needs in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, where certified surgical technologists (CSTs - Certified Surgical Technologist credential) are essential. In the United Kingdom, similar roles as Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) are in demand via the National Health Service (NHS), with faculty spots at universities. Australia reports shortages in Queensland and New South Wales, favoring experienced instructors. Quirks include state-specific licensing in the US (e.g., California mandates certification), rural shortages worldwide offering relocation incentives, and urban areas requiring advanced skills like robotics training.
| Region | Demand Level | Avg. Annual Faculty Salary (USD equiv.) | Key Quirks & Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| California, US | Very High | $72,000 - $92,000 | High cost of living; top programs at community colleges like Foothill College. Explore California Surgical Technology jobs or Los Angeles. |
| Texas, US | High | $58,000 - $78,000 | Growing hospitals; Lone Star College hires faculty. Check Texas or Houston listings. |
| Florida, US | High | $55,000 - $75,000 | Tourism boosts elective surgeries; Miami Dade College opportunities. Visit Florida. |
| Ontario, Canada | Moderate-High | $65,000 - $85,000 | Universal healthcare drives steady need; colleges like Humber. See Ontario. |
| England, UK | Moderate | $50,000 - $70,000 | NHS training pipelines; University of Salford programs. Link to London. |
For jobseekers, prioritize areas matching your Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) credentials. Rural US spots like those in Texas offer signing bonuses but fewer resources, while cities provide networking via associations. Compare salaries on professor salaries pages, and rate instructors at local programs on Rate My Professor to gauge teaching quality in Surgical Technology. Tailor applications to regional quirks—network at higher ed jobs fairs—and consider career advice for relocation. Students, research top institutions via Rate My Professor for Surgical Technology courses. Actionable tip: Use US jobs filters for emerging markets like Florida's Gulf Coast.
Surgical Technology, also known as operating room technology, trains professionals to assist surgeons during procedures by managing instruments, sterilizing equipment, and maintaining sterile fields in the operating room (OR). This field is vital in hospitals, outpatient centers, and ambulatory surgery facilities, with demand growing due to an aging population and minimally invasive techniques. For students entering Surgical Technology programs and jobseekers pursuing faculty roles teaching these skills, selecting the right institution is key. Below, we highlight 4 specializing institutions renowned for their Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)-accredited curricula, advanced simulation labs, and exceptional outcomes. These programs emphasize hands-on clinical rotations, preparing graduates for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
| Institution | Location | Primary Program | Duration | Key Benefits | Job Placement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washburn University | Topeka, KS Explore jobs | Associate of Applied Science (AAS) | 21 months | State-of-the-art sim labs, 1,200 clinical hours | 100% (2023) |
| St. Philip's College | San Antonio, TX Explore jobs | AAS in Surgical Technology | 2 years | Large clinical network, bilingual support | 95%+ |
| Keiser University | Fort Lauderdale, FL Explore jobs | AAS | 20 months | Flexible schedules, high CST pass rates | 98% |
| Pima Medical Institute | Tucson, AZ Explore jobs | Associate & Certificate | 10-24 months | Multiple campuses, externships | 90%+ |
These institutions excel because they bridge classroom theory with real-world OR experience, boasting CST exam pass rates above 90%—far exceeding national averages. For instance, Washburn University's program integrates robotics training, reflecting 2024 trends in robotic-assisted surgery. St. Philip's leverages San Antonio's medical hub status for diverse rotations in trauma and orthopedics.
Advice for Students: Start with prerequisite courses like anatomy and microbiology, then apply to CAAHEP-accredited programs via CAAHEP's finder tool. Budget $10,000-$25,000 for tuition; seek scholarships through AcademicJobs.com scholarships. Build resumes with volunteer shadowing to stand out.
Advice for Jobseekers: Experienced CSTs with 2+ years OR time can transition to faculty roles teaching Surgical Technology, earning $60,000-$85,000 annually (2024 BLS data). Review instructor ratings on Rate My Professor for Surgical Technology faculty, compare professor salaries, and apply via higher ed jobs or community college jobs. Network at Association of Surgical Technologists events (AST.org) and follow higher ed career advice for CV tips. Check US jobs or global opportunities.
Whether you're a student eyeing accredited programs or a certified professional aiming for faculty roles in surgical technology programs at community colleges, these proven strategies will guide you step-by-step. Surgical technology involves preparing operating rooms, sterilizing instruments, and assisting surgeons during procedures—essential skills taught in vocational and associate degree programs. With the field projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, opportunities abound, but competition requires preparation, ethics, and persistence.
Start with the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Enroll in a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)-accredited program, typically 12-24 months for a diploma or associate degree. For example, complete clinical rotations at local hospitals to log 120+ cases. Jobseekers: Highlight CST on your resume for faculty positions; students: This is your entry ticket. Ethically, only claim verified experience to build trust in high-stakes healthcare education. Check programs via CAAHEP.org.
Secure 1-2 years as a surgical technologist in operating rooms before pursuing faculty jobs. Shadow instructors at colleges like Los Angeles community colleges. Step-by-step: Apply via hospital job boards, volunteer for diverse cases (e.g., orthopedics, cardiology). Students: Internships during school count double. This differentiates you for higher-ed faculty jobs paying $55,000-$85,000 annually. Ethical note: Prioritize patient safety logs to demonstrate integrity.
A bachelor's in surgical technology or health sciences is often required for teaching; aim for a master's for tenure-track. Programs at institutions like Houston-area colleges specialize here. Jobseekers: Use your GI bill if eligible. Students: Transfer credits from associate programs. Visit professor salaries to benchmark $65,000 median for surgical tech instructors.
Join the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) for events and mentorship. Attend annual conferences to connect with program directors. Example: LinkedIn groups for surgical tech educators led to 20% of hires per industry forums. Ethical insight: Share knowledge selflessly to foster community trust. Link up on higher-ed career advice pages.
Customize resumes with keywords like 'surgical technology faculty jobs' and quantifiable achievements (e.g., 'Assisted 500+ surgeries'). Use free templates at AcademicJobs.com resume tools. Cover letters: Explain your teaching philosophy. Students: Highlight GPA and labs. Avoid exaggeration—transparency wins in ethics-focused fields.
Target growing areas like Miami or New York with aging populations driving surgery needs. BLS data shows 9,600 annual openings. Use university rankings for top programs like those at Pima Community College.
Check Rate My Professor for surgical technology instructors to learn effective teaching styles. Example: High-rated profs emphasize simulations—emulate that. Jobseekers: Get endorsements; students: Choose highly reviewed courses.
Practice mock surgeries and lesson plans. Faculty interviews often include teaching demos. Step-by-step: Review AORN standards, prepare for scenario questions like 'Handle a contaminated instrument.' Ethical: Admit knowledge gaps honestly. Prep via higher-ed jobs listings.
Complete 16 CE hours yearly for recertification. Enroll in webinars on robotics in surgery. This boosts employability for adjunct professor jobs. Students: Builds strong transcripts.
Implement these ethically, focusing on patient-centered skills, and monitor Rate My Professor for surgical technology feedback to refine your approach. Success in surgical technology careers starts with dedication—start today!
In the dynamic field of Surgical Technology, where certified surgical technologists (CSTs) play a crucial role in operating rooms by preparing instruments, maintaining sterile fields, and assisting surgeons, diversity and inclusion are transforming practices and education. This emphasis fosters equitable opportunities for jobseekers pursuing Surgical Technology faculty jobs and students entering programs worldwide.
Demographics reveal a predominantly female workforce—about 74% women according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023 data)—with increasing representation from underrepresented groups: Hispanic/Latino professionals at 18%, Black/African American at 12%, and Asian at 7%. Faculty in Surgical Technology programs at community colleges and universities mirror this, though efforts aim to boost male and minority instructors to better reflect patient populations.
Policies driving change include accreditation standards from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), which mandate inclusive curricula, and hospital diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives compliant with Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines. For instance, major institutions like Johns Hopkins and Mayo Clinic prioritize diverse hiring in perioperative teams, extending to educator roles.
The influence is profound: diverse Surgical Technology teams enhance patient safety and outcomes by 20-30%, per studies from the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN), as varied perspectives reduce biases and improve communication in multicultural operating rooms. Benefits for faculty include richer classroom discussions, stronger student mentorship, and career advancement through DEI leadership roles.
Actionable tips for aspiring Surgical Technology faculty and students:
Real-world examples include the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) DEI scholarships for minority students and programs at institutions like St. Philip's College in Texas, which target Hispanic learners. Internationally, the UK’s Society of Operating Room Technicians promotes similar inclusivity. Jobseekers can leverage these trends for fulfilling careers; students, discover top programs via higher-ed career advice. Embrace diversity to excel in Surgical Technology education.
Joining professional clubs, societies, and networks in Surgical Technology—often referring to the role of surgical technologists or scrub technicians who assist in operating rooms—is essential for both students and jobseekers pursuing faculty positions or clinical careers. These organizations foster networking opportunities, provide access to continuing education units (CEUs) required for certifications like Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), offer job boards, mentorship programs, and platforms to present research or case studies. For aspiring Surgical Technology faculty, active involvement demonstrates commitment to the field, enhances resumes for academic roles, and connects you to program directors at community colleges and universities. Students benefit from discounted memberships, scholarships, and local chapters for hands-on experience. Check insights from Surgical Technology professors on Rate My Professor to learn from top educators, and explore faculty opportunities on higher ed jobs pages.
Founded in 1969, the AST is the premier U.S.-based society with over 20,000 members worldwide, advocating for surgical technologists through education, standards, and policy. Key benefits include free access to the Perioperative Practice Today journal, CE webinars, an annual conference (e.g., the 2024 event in Orlando drew 1,500+ attendees for workshops), job postings, and certification discounts. Faculty use it for publishing articles and networking at events. Students join as associates for $35/year. Advice: Attend virtual chapters for global access. Visit ast.org to join and boost your Surgical Technology career pathway.
This certifying body administers the CST and Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) exams, taken by 5,000+ candidates annually. While not a traditional society, it networks professionals via its community portal and updates on trends like robotic surgery integration. Benefits: Exam prep resources, recertification tracking (every 4 years, 60 CEUs), and employer-recognized credentials vital for faculty hiring. Join by registering for exams ($190-$360 fees). Pro tip: Faculty often serve as proctors, gaining leadership experience. Links to higher ed career advice at higher ed career advice.
An international network uniting associations from 10+ countries, FOSTA promotes global standards in Surgical Technology education and practice. Benefits: Cross-border collaborations, webinars on topics like minimally invasive techniques, and advocacy for allied health roles. Ideal for faculty teaching diverse student cohorts. Membership via national affiliates like AST; attend biennial congresses. Enhances international job prospects—check professor salaries for global comparisons.
AST's student arm offers 300+ campus chapters for hands-on simulations, guest lectures from faculty, and scholarships ($1,000+ awards yearly). Benefits: Leadership roles, resume builders for adjunct professor jobs. Advice: Start a chapter if none exists; transition to full membership post-graduation. Connect with peers worldwide for study abroad insights in Surgical Technology programs.
These networks have grown significantly, with AST membership up 15% since 2020 amid rising demand for Surgical Technology educators (projected 7% job growth per BLS). Active participation can lead to speaking gigs, publications, and referrals for faculty positions—vital in a field where 70% of programs require professional affiliations. Dive into Rate My Professor for Surgical Technology instructor reviews and tailor your involvement strategy.
Embark on your journey in Surgical Technology, a dynamic field where professionals assist surgeons during operations by preparing sterile environments, passing instruments, and ensuring patient safety. These curated resources empower jobseekers pursuing Surgical Technology jobs or faculty roles, and students exploring certificate or associate degree programs. From certifications like Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) to salary benchmarks around $60,000 median (BLS 2023), they provide actionable pathways, trends like 5% job growth through 2033, and tips for high-demand areas such as Houston, TX and Los Angeles, CA. Leverage Rate My Professor to research instructors at top programs like Pima Medical Institute or Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences.
This leading organization offers the official Core Curriculum, certification exam prep, a career center with Surgical Technology faculty jobs, continuing education credits, and advocacy updates. Use it to search job listings, download standards of practice, and join student chapters for networking. Incredibly helpful for novices learning operating room protocols and trends like minimally invasive surgery demands. Advice: Start with their free resources, then pursue CST certification to boost employability by 20-30%. ast.org. Pair with professor salaries data for faculty insights.
The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs lists hundreds of approved Surgical Technology schools, from community colleges to universities. Use the search tool to find local programs meeting national standards for hands-on training in anatomy, microbiology, and surgical procedures. Essential for students ensuring credits transfer and jobseekers verifying qualifications for instructor roles. Advice: Prioritize programs with clinical rotations; top ones include Community College of Allegheny County. caahep.org. Check Rate My Professor reviews for Surgical Technology courses.
Provides detailed stats on Surgical Technologists: education (diploma/associate), median pay ($60,610 in 2023), growth projections, and state data like highest employment in California. Use for career planning, resume tailoring, and interview prep on skills like aseptic technique. Highly helpful for realistic expectations in faculty pathways requiring 2-4 years experience plus bachelor's. Advice: Track 5-year trends showing steady demand post-COVID. bls.gov. Compare via university salaries.
Administers the CST exam, the gold standard credential recognized globally, plus recertification via CEUs. Offers study guides, practice tests, and candidate handbook explaining exam domains like preoperative prep. Ideal for jobseekers differentiating in competitive markets and students post-graduation. Advice: Schedule early; pass rates improve with AST prep courses. nbstsa.org. Explore higher ed career advice for certification tips.
Aggregates salary data for Surgical Technology instructors at community colleges and universities, averaging $55,000-$85,000 based on experience and location. Use interactive tools to filter by region, like higher pay in Miami, FL. Valuable for negotiating offers and planning moves. Advice: Combine with networking on faculty jobs boards. professor-salaries.
User reviews of Surgical Technology faculty worldwide, rating teaching styles, course difficulty, and program quality at schools like Keiser University. Use to select mentors, prepare for interviews, or avoid mismatches. Crucial for students building strong references. Advice: Read recent reviews; top-rated profs often post adjunct opportunities. rate-my-professor. Link to adjunct professor jobs.
AcademicJobs.com guides on CV writing, interviewing for technical roles, and thriving as lecturers. Relevant posts cover research assistant paths leading to faculty. Use for actionable steps like tailoring resumes to ARCST standards. Advice: Apply tips to land roles amid 7% hiring uptick in technical programs. See lecturer advice.
Pursuing a career or education in Surgical Technology opens doors to a dynamic, high-demand field within healthcare. Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians or "scrubs," play a crucial role in surgical teams by preparing sterile environments, anticipating surgeons' needs, and ensuring patient safety during procedures. This profession combines technical skills with hands-on patient care, offering stability and fulfillment in an ever-evolving medical landscape.
Job prospects are bright, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 5% growth for surgical technologists from 2023 to 2033—faster than average—driven by an aging population and advances in minimally invasive surgeries. For faculty roles teaching Surgical Technology, opportunities abound at community colleges and vocational schools, where certified instructors shape the next generation. Explore higher-ed-jobs on AcademicJobs.com to find Surgical Technology faculty jobs tailored to your expertise.
The value lies in work-life balance—many roles offer flexible shifts—and transferable skills for advancement to surgical first assisting or management. Students benefit from short programs (1-2 years) leading to quick employment. Leverage advice: Gain clinical experience, pursue CST certification, and build a portfolio. For career insights, visit higher-ed-career-advice or rate-my-professor to learn from Surgical Technology instructors. Internationally, demand grows in countries like Canada and Australia; search jobs-ac-uk or US/CA listings. BLS Surgical Technologists provides global context.
Real-world example: A Surgical Technology graduate from Pima Community College landed a faculty role earning $70,000, crediting networking at AST events. Start your journey today for rewarding outcomes and professional prestige.
Hear directly from seasoned Surgical Technology professionals and eager students to make informed decisions about pursuing faculty roles or enrolling in programs. Surgical Technology, the field training certified surgical technologists (CSTs) who assist surgeons in operating rooms by preparing instruments, maintaining sterile fields, and ensuring patient safety during procedures, offers rewarding yet demanding careers. Professionals often highlight the thrill of being at the heart of life-saving surgeries, with many praising the high job demand—projected to grow 5% through 2032 per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)—and competitive salaries for faculty, averaging $60,000 to $90,000 annually depending on experience and location, as seen on professor salaries data.
Students rave about hands-on clinical rotations and simulation labs that build real-world skills, though they note the intensity of mastering anatomy, microbiology, and surgical pharmacology. Dive into authentic reviews on Rate My Professor to gauge instructors at community colleges like Miami Dade College or Keiser University, top programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Search for Surgical Technology faculty ratings, often averaging 4.2/5, revealing strengths in practical teaching versus lecture styles. Check Rate My Professor feedback from CST program grads who credit engaging profs for passing the Certified Surgical Technologist exam on the first try.
Professionals advise aspiring faculty to gain 2-5 years of OR experience post-certification, pursue a bachelor's in surgical technology or allied health, and network via higher ed career advice resources. Students, explore Rate My Professor for course difficulty insights before committing—look for profs emphasizing patient-centered care. For global perspectives, visit the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST). These insights, paired with higher ed faculty jobs, empower your path in this vital field. Another gem: alumni reviews on Rate My Professor underscore how mentorship leads to roles at leading institutions.
