Surgical Technologist (Surgical Tech)

Surgical Technologist

A Surgical Technologist (Surgical Tech) at Johns Hopkins Medicine serves as a fundamental member of the surgical team, providing technical assistance to surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists. This role is responsible for maintaining the sterile field and ensuring that all necessary instruments and supplies are ready for use during complex operative procedures in a world-renowned academic medical center.

Job Summary The Surgical Technologist prepares the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and equipment, sterile drapes, and sterile solutions. During surgery, the technologist anticipates the needs of the surgeon, passing instruments and providing manual assistance as required. The position requires a high degree of precision, a thorough understanding of surgical procedures, and strict adherence to aseptic techniques to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Assembling and organizing sterile supplies, instruments, and equipment needed for specific surgical procedures according to surgeon preference cards.
• Establishing and maintaining a sterile field throughout the duration of the operative procedure.
• Performing needle, sponge, and instrument counts with the circulating nurse before, during, and after surgery to ensure patient safety.
• Passing instruments, sutures, and sponges to the surgeon and surgical assistants efficiently and accurately.
• Preparing and handling surgical specimens for laboratory analysis according to hospital policy.
• Assisting with the suctioning of fluids, holding retractors, and cutting sutures under the direct supervision of the surgeon.
• Operating specialized operating room equipment, including lights, suction machines, and electrosurgical units.
• Cleaning and restocking the operating room after procedures and assisting with the transport of used instruments to the sterile processing department.
• Collaborating with the surgical team to troubleshoot equipment issues and ensure the room is prepared for emergency cases.

Qualifications and Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Graduation from an accredited Surgical Technology program.
• Current certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is typically required.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology related to various surgical specialties.
• Detailed understanding of sterile technique, infection control, and operating room safety protocols.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to function effectively under high-pressure, fast-paced conditions.
• Previous experience in a high-volume hospital or specialty surgical center is preferred.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a sterile operating room environment with potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens and hazardous chemicals.
• Requires standing for long periods, often several hours at a time, without a break.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull heavy equipment and assist in the positioning or transfer of patients (up to 50 lbs).
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment, including lead aprons, masks, and eye protection, for extended durations.
• Participation in an on-call rotation for nights, weekends, and holidays is frequently required to support emergency surgical services.

Equal Opportunity Employer: ATC Healthcare Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regards to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status or any other category protected by Federal, State or local law. M/F/D/V EOE