A surgical technician plays a key role in the operating room, helping ensure every procedure runs smoothly. Here's how to become a surgical technician in Maine, what training involves, and how much you can earn.

6. Advance your career

Options include Surgical First Assistant training or other healthcare certifications.

Finding Surgical Technician Classes in Maine

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View surgical technician programs in Maine

How Long Does It Take to Become a Surgical Technician?

The timeline to become a Surgical Technician varies, but most complete the process within 1–2 years:

• Training Programs: 12–24 months.
• Clinical Internships: Included in training programs for hands-on practice.
• Certification Testing: Requires several weeks of preparation and testing.

How Do I Get My Surgical Technician Certification?

Becoming a certified Surgical Technician is a great career path for individuals who are interested in the medical field and have a passion for helping others. In order to become certified, there are a few steps that you will need to take.

1. Research and choose an accredited program: The first step in getting your Surgical Technician certification is to research and choose an accredited program. There are many schools and colleges that offer Surgical Technician programs, but it's important to make sure that the program you choose is accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These accrediting bodies ensure that the program meets certain standards of education and training.

2. Complete the required coursework: Once you have chosen an accredited program, you will need to complete the required coursework. This typically includes a combination of classroom lectures and hands-on clinical experience. The coursework will cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, surgical procedures, and sterile techniques.

3. Complete a clinical internship: In addition to the coursework, most Surgical Technician programs require students to complete a clinical internship. This provides students with the opportunity to gain real-world experience in a surgical setting and apply the knowledge and skills they have learned in the classroom. The length of the internship can vary, but it is typically around 120 hours.

4. Pass the certification exam: After completing the required coursework and clinical internship, you will need to pass the certification exam in order to become a certified Surgical Technician. The exam is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) and consists of 175 multiple-choice questions. It covers topics such as surgical procedures, patient care, and sterile techniques. In order to pass the exam, you will need to score at least 70%.

5. Maintain your certification: Once you have obtained your Surgical Technician certification, it is important to maintain it by fulfilling continuing education requirements. This typically involves completing a certain number of continuing education credits every few years. The specific requirements can vary depending on the certifying body, so it's important to stay informed and up to date on any changes.

How Do I Get a Job as a Surgical Technician?

Once you have obtained your Surgical Technician certification, the next step is to find a job in the field. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of getting hired as a Surgical Technician:

1. Create a professional resume: Your resume is often the first impression that potential employers will have of you, so it's important to make sure it is professional and well-written. Include relevant information such as your education, certification, clinical experience, and any additional skills or certifications you may have.

2. Network: Networking is an important aspect of finding a job in any field, including surgical technology. Reach out to friends, family members, and colleagues who may have connections in the medical field. Attend job fairs and professional conferences related to surgical technology to meet professionals in the field and make valuable connections.

3. Apply to job openings: Search for job openings in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities. Many hospitals and healthcare systems have online job boards where you can search for open positions. In addition, consider reaching out directly to hospitals or surgical centers in your area to inquire about any potential job openings.

4. Prepare for interviews: If you are selected for an interview, it's important to be well-prepared. Research the company or facility beforehand, familiarize yourself with common interview questions, and practice your answers. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills and experiences during the interview.

5. Consider additional certifications: While not always required, obtaining additional certifications can help you stand out in a competitive job market. Consider obtaining certifications in areas such as advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) or surgical first assisting. These additional certifications can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and may make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

Career Paths and Opportunities for Surgical Technicians

Becoming a certified Surgical Technician opens up a variety of career paths and opportunities within the medical field. Here are a few potential career paths you may consider:

• Surgical First Assistant – Works closely with the surgeon during operations
• Operating Room Coordinator – Manages OR staff and surgical equipment
• Travel Surgical Tech – Fills temporary roles in hospitals across the U.S.
• Surgical Technology Instructor – Trains new surgical technicians
• Medical Equipment Sales Rep – Sells surgical tools to clinics and hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest paid surgical tech?

The highest-paid surgical technologists often specialize in areas like cardiovascular surgery or work as traveling surgical techs. For instance, cardiovascular operating room technicians can earn up to $116,500 annually, while traveling surgical technologists may average around $119,056 per year. Additionally, location influences earnings; surgical technologists in California earn an average of $72,860 annually, with those in Alaska earning about $73,960.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Surgical Technician in Maine is a rewarding and stable career with plenty of opportunities for growth. Whether you’re assisting in life-saving procedures or supporting specialized surgeries, this field offers both job security and competitive pay.

Ready to take the first step? Explore training programs on Dreambound and start your Surgical Technician journey today!

Are you thinking about a job change or wanting to learn more about different career paths? Feel free to check out these additional articles:

• Sterile Processing Technician Training in Maine
• Radiology Technician Training in Maine
• Patient Care Technician Training in Maine
• Pharmacy Technician Training in Maine