Surgical Technologist Careers in Florida
Surgical technologists assist surgeons and nurses in the operating room by preparing the sterile field, passing instruments, and maintaining safety protocols throughout surgical procedures. They must think quickly and stay calm under pressure. FL employs nearly 9,000 surgical techs, a number growing 12% through 2032.
What does a Surgical Technologist do in Florida?
Surgical technologists assist surgeons and nurses in the operating room by preparing the sterile field, passing instruments, and maintaining safety protocols throughout surgical procedures. They must think quickly and stay calm under pressure. FL employs nearly 9,000 surgical techs, a number growing 12% through 2032.
Typical Florida work setting: Hospital.
Florida salary and job outlook
Estimated Florida median pay for Surgical Technologist is approximately $61,030 per year. Entry-level Florida pay typically starts near $38,200, with experienced workers earning around $77,800.
Florida’s projected growth for this occupation is approximately 12% through the next decade — well above average compared to many other states.
Estimated figures based on publicly reported Florida and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Actual pay varies by employer, metro area, experience, and credentials.
How to become a Surgical Technologist in Florida
- 1. Choose an accredited Florida programLook for a Florida program that prepares you for the CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) via NBSTSA (strongly preferred) required to work as a Surgical Technologist. Public technical colleges and state colleges are typically the lowest-cost option; private career schools tend to cost more but may finish faster.
- 2. Complete the trainingMost Florida Surgical Technologist programs take about 1-2 years (Certificate or Associate). Plan around your work and family schedule — many programs offer day, evening, or hybrid options.
- 3. Apply for Florida jobsFlorida employers across the state hire entry-level Surgical Technologists year-round. Use our Florida school directory to find programs with strong job-placement support and Florida employer relationships.
Requirements & Training
- Credential: CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) via NBSTSA (strongly preferred)
- Typical program length: 1-2 years (Certificate or Associate)
- Typical tuition range: $8,000 - $18,000
Career Path
- Surgical Tech (Scrub)
- First Scrub Tech
- Senior/Specialty Tech (CV/Neuro/Ortho)
- Surgical Tech Educator
- OR Supervisor
Top Florida Employers
Related Programs to Look For
- Surgical Technology AS
- Surgical Technology Certificate
Florida Surgical Technologist FAQs
Do I need a Florida license to work as a Surgical Technologist?
Most Surgical Technologist roles in Florida do not require a state license to start, though employers often prefer candidates who have completed an accredited training program and earned a recognized credential.
How long does it take to become a Surgical Technologist in Florida?
Most Florida training programs for Surgical Technologist take about 1-2 years (Certificate or Associate). Part-time, evening, and hybrid schedules can extend that timeline; accelerated programs may shorten it.
How much does Surgical Technologist training cost in Florida?
Typical Florida programs run about $8,000 - $18,000. Public technical and state colleges are usually the lowest-cost route. Financial aid, employer reimbursement, and payment plans are widely available.
What is the average salary for a Surgical Technologist in Florida?
Estimated Florida median pay for Surgical Technologists is about $61,030 per year. Entry-level pay is typically lower, and experienced workers in high-demand metros (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville) can earn meaningfully more.
Where can I study to become a Surgical Technologist in Florida?
Florida has hundreds of public technical colleges, state colleges, and private career schools that offer training relevant to Surgical Technologist. Use our Florida school directory to filter by region, cost, and accreditation.
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