Surgical Technologists Salaries in Ocala, FL

About Surgical Technologists

Surgical Technologists assist surgeons and surgical nurses in the operating room by preparing the sterile field, passing instruments and supplies during procedures, and maintaining sterile technique throughout surgery. They work across surgical specialties including general surgery, orthopedics, cardiothoracic, neurosurgery, obstetrics, and ophthalmology. In the pre-operative phase, surgical technologists retrieve and organize instruments, open sterile supplies, count instruments, sponges, and sharps with the circulating nurse, drape the patient, and position instruments within the sterile field. During surgery, they pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon, anticipate the next step of the procedure, cut suture, operate suction, and hold retractors. Post-operatively, they assist in closing the surgical wound, participate in final counts, remove draping, and help transfer the patient. Sterile technique is non-negotiable—any breach risks surgical site infection and serious patient harm. The field requires strong anatomical knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to remain focused and respond quickly in high-pressure, fast-paced operative environments. Certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) and an associate degree in surgical technology are standard credentials.

What Surgical Technologists Do

• Prepare and organize the sterile instrument field before surgery
• Open sterile supplies and maintain sterile technique throughout the procedure
• Count instruments, sponges, and sharps with the circulating nurse
• Pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon during procedures
• Anticipate surgeon needs and respond to changes in procedure
• Assist with wound closure and dressing application
• Participate in post-procedure counts and room turnover
• Maintain and troubleshoot surgical instruments and specialized equipment

Key Skills & Qualifications

• Sterile technique and surgical asepsis
• Surgical anatomy and procedural knowledge across specialties
• Instrument identification and surgical set preparation
• Ability to anticipate surgeon needs during procedures
• Count procedures and sharps safety compliance
• Equipment operation including electrosurgical units and laparoscopic systems
• CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) credential from NBSTSA
• Composure and precision under high-pressure operative conditions

Career Path

1. Surgical Technology Student
2. Surgical Technologist
3. Specialty Certified Surgical Technologist
4. Lead Surgical Technologist / OR Coordinator
5. Surgical First Assistant / OR Manager

Surgical Technologists Market in Ocala, FL