Frequently listen to doctors and other medical workers Frequently use arms and hands to reach for and handle medical equipment Frequently use fingers to pick up small items, such as needles Occasionally lift and move patients onto the operating table Occasionally need to see nearby objects clearly, as when reading a medical chart Occasionally need to see the difference between colors Occasionally stoop while working on patients Occasionally talk to doctors and other medical workers Occasionally use fingertips to feel a particular area of the patient Work Setting Surgical technologists stand for long periods without a break. Technicians are constantly exposed to diseases and unpleasant sights and odors. Technologists need to remain alert and concentrate during operations that may take several hours. Most technologists work 40 hours a week. They may occasionally work with evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Wages vary with level of training, experience and location.
Entry level wages may be lower. Pay varies with the size and location of the clinic or hospital. It also varies with the worker's duties and experience. Full-time surgical technologists generally receive benefits. Common benefits include health insurance, sick leave, and paid vacation.