Surgical Tech (3080)

Position Summary:

The Surgical Tech supports the surgical team by preparing and maintaining sterile fields, selecting and organizing instruments, and ensuring the operating room is properly set up for each procedure. Working under the direction of the circulating RN and in close collaboration with surgeons and perioperative team members, this role assists during operative cases to promote safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care. The Surgical Tech ensures proper handling of equipment and supplies, supports infection prevention practices, and contributes to accurate count procedures and documentation. Through strong attention to detail, adherence to established surgical protocols, and effective teamwork, this position helps support optimal patient outcomes and smooth, well-coordinated surgical workflows.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare operating rooms for scheduled and emergent procedures by assembling sterile instruments, supplies, and equipment according to established protocols.
• Assist surgeons and the surgical team during procedures by anticipating needs, passing instruments, and maintaining a sterile field.
• Handle, clean, and prepare surgical instruments and equipment, ensuring proper function, organization, and availability for future cases.
• Perform and document required count procedures in collaboration with the circulating RN to support patient safety and regulatory compliance.
• Communicate effectively with surgeons, anesthesia staff, and nursing personnel to support efficient workflow and timely case progression.
• Participate in ongoing quality, safety, and competency activities to maintain proficiency with equipment, procedures, and infection control standards.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• Requires either a Surgical Tech or Certified Surgical Tech (CST) and UAP/Technician upon hire; or current or temporary nursing license in ND or compact nursing license.
• Practice/Employment does include orientation (preference given to CST)

Educational Requirements:

• Requires either a Surgical Tech training program or a Nursing program, as evidenced by licensure.

Experience Requirements:

• Preferred past work experience, but not required.

Special Skills or Training Requirements:

• Maintains familiarity with all instrumentation, including proper care and knowledge of functionality.
• Communicates well with others, handles stressful situations well, and works as an efficient member of the team.
• Completes probation period satisfactorily.

Physical Requirements:

The Surgical Tech is frequently required to stand for prolonged periods, move throughout the operating suite, and assist with positioning or transferring patients and equipment. The role requires the ability to lift, push, and maneuver surgical trays, instrument sets, and mobile equipment. Adequate vision, hearing, and manual dexterity are essential for identifying instruments, responding to verbal cues, and performing fine motor tasks within a sterile field.

Environmental Requirements:

Work occurs in a fast-paced surgical environment with regular exposure to bright lighting, surgical equipment, bodily fluids, sharp instruments, and sterilizing chemicals. The role may involve urgent or high-stress situations requiring rapid, accurate responses. Adherence to infection-prevention practices, sterile-technique standards, and appropriate use of PPE is required to ensure safety for patients and staff.