Introduction
If you’re considering a career as a surgical tech, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how much you can expect to earn. In this article, we’ll take a look at the entry-level surgical tech salary in 2023, including factors that can impact your earning potential.
What Is a Surgical Tech?
Before we dive into salary information, let’s briefly cover what a surgical tech does. A surgical tech is a healthcare professional who assists surgeons during medical procedures. They prepare the operating room, sterilize equipment, hand instruments to the surgeon, and monitor the patient’s vital signs.
Entry-Level Salary Range
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technologists in 2020 was $49,710. However, entry-level surgical techs can expect to earn less than this, typically in the range of $30,000 to $40,000 annually.
Factors That Affect Salary
Several factors can impact your earning potential as a surgical tech, including:
Education and Experience
Having a certification or degree in surgical technology can increase your earning potential. Additionally, gaining experience in the field can lead to higher-paying positions.
Location
Salary can vary depending on where you work. For example, surgical techs in metropolitan areas may earn more than those in rural areas.
Type of Facility
The type of medical facility you work in can also impact your salary. Surgical techs who work in hospitals may earn more than those in outpatient clinics.
Shift and Schedule
Surgical techs who work night shifts or weekends may earn more than those who work traditional business hours.
Career Advancement Opportunities
As you gain experience as a surgical tech, you may have opportunities for career advancement. For example, you could become a first assistant or a surgical technologist supervisor, which can lead to higher salaries.
Job Outlook
Overall, the job outlook for surgical techs is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% growth rate for the occupation between 2020 and 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Conclusion
If you’re considering a career as a surgical tech, it’s important to understand the earning potential for entry-level positions. While the salary may be lower than the median for the occupation, there are opportunities for career advancement and job growth in the field.