Getting a surgical technologist job.

How did you get your start doing surgical technologist work, and what career moves did you make to get to your current position?

Do you need a particular educational background?

First, you need to graduate from an accredited program, which you can find out which ones are from Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Next, most employers require Certification, which is a 250 question exam that tests your knowledge of the field. You can get test info from ast.org
Finally, when I graduated I sent my resume everywhere I possibly could until I finally got a response. Most schools also offer job search assistance. You will notice that most employers will request 1 year experience, but if you keep at it and keep sending resumes, you will eventually find someone willing to give you a shot. The best thing to do is to take the first position you can find, even if it is not your first choice just so you can build your resumes. For some people it can take months before a response. For me, it took a couple of months, but I got my first shot at a small outpatient surg center...once I had my 1 year under my belt, then I started to apply for more desirable locations and was hired almost immediately.

Host said: How did you get your start doing surgical technologist work, and what career moves did you make to get to your current position?

Do you need a particular educational background?

I have recently graduated from an accredited program. Finishing up a single class I lacked to actually receive my degree. I am willing to relocate anywhere abd start out at a salary that is as minimal as they come. I am eager to work and about to take my certification in the next two months. Should I wait to apply for jobs until I have my certification; or is it okay to begin sending out resumes now?
thanks a million...a fellow AST member.

I am a 45 year old mother of two. I had a successful until five years ago when I gave it up to stay at home with my infant son. I was thinking of going back to school for surgical tech. I was considering taking some courses online, until my son starts kindergarden in the fall, then I would have a jumping start. Can you recommend any accreditated online schools for surgical tech? And where do you recommend I complete my schooling after? I live in Houston, (The Woodlands), Texas.