People looking for a recession proof job, interested in health care, need look no further than a surgical technician program. These specialized assistants help the surgeon during an operation. This career enjoys good pay, job security and satisfaction. Let’s take a look.

What is a surgical technician?

This is an excellent question and an even greater career that is worth a close look. The surgical technician is responsible for setting up the instrument pack for a surgeon, and then assisting them with the surgery. It is a highly specialized field and is resistant to economic changes.

How to Become a Surgical Technician?

There are degree and certificate courses in surgical technician training. Many students prefer to start out with the certificate program due to costs and time savings. Certificate programs teach the basics and can be completed in one year. Surgical technician schools are usually part of the community college systems. There are some basic prerequisites but, these vary depending on the school. The application process for surgical technician programs can be extensive. Waiting lists to get into the surgical technician classes is common.

Surgical Technician Employment

Surgical technicians are an integral part of operating teams across the nation. They are the ones that assist the surgeon during an operation. Their knowledge and skill are indispensable. Employment can be found in hospitals and out-patient surgery clinics. National averages place technicians with one year degrees between $25,000 and $35,000 per year. Those technicians with Associate’s Degrees can expect offers in the $40,000 to $75,000 per year. Employment opportunities are extensive in most areas. Surgical technician careers are associated with steady employment, lucrative salaries and long term job satisfaction.

What to Expect from a Surgical Technician Job

A Surgical technician job is not without difficulties. Technicians will spend long hours standing while assisting with surgery. They are required to be on call for emergencies. It is not unusual to be awakened at 2 am and have to go in and help with a surgical case. Weekends, nights and holidays have to be covered just like the weekdays. Outpatient surgical units do not do emergency surgery. Schedules are more stable, and holidays, weekends and nights are not required at most centers.

Technicians have to develop a positive rapport with the other staff. They are responsible for setting up the equipment pack prior to surgery. They must understand and predict what the surgeon will need to complete the operation. They interact with all members of the surgical team. They must be organized and detail oriented. Accuracy is the key to success.