Surgical Technician

Surgical technicians, also called surgical technologists, pass the sterile instruments and supplies to surgeons and first assistants. They might hold retractors, hold internal organs in place during the procedure, or set up robotic surgical equipment. They also may handle specimens taken for laboratory analysis.

Certified Surgical Technician Facts

DC Registration Required? 

Projected DC Annual Job Openings  

50*

Average DC Yearly Salary

$68,520*

certification organizations and their requirements desk

certification organizations and their requirements mobile

Certifiying Bodies, Examinations, and Requirements

There are several examinations that can be taken to become a surgical technician. Learn more about certification organizations and their requirements:

The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTA)

Graduate from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited Surgical Technology training program.
Complete exam application.
Pay $290 exam fee.
Maintain certification with 30 continuing education credits every two years.

National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)

Have obtained a high school degree, GED, or its equivalent.
Submit a copy of a Surgical Technology diploma, transcript, or certificate of completion within 60 days of graduation.
Complete a Tech in Surgery TS-C Critical Skills Competency form.
Pay $199 exam fee.
Maintain certification with 14 hours of continuing education each year.

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health workers looking at some notes mobile

Current DC Healthcare Academy Training Programs

Surgical Technician

Fall 2025: MedStar Washington Hosptial Center

Learn More

*Projected Annual Openings are based on regional O-NET data for nursing assistants from 2020-2030 and projected openings Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/29-2055.00?

*Average yearly salary is based on regional O-NET data for nursing assistants https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/29-2055.00?st=DC