Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) to join a fast-paced surgical team. The Surgical Technologist will support surgical procedures by preparing the operating room, maintaining the sterile field, anticipating the needs of the surgical team, handling instrumentation and supplies, and assisting with patient care throughout the surgical process.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, dependable, team-focused, and comfortable working in a variety of surgical environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare operating rooms for scheduled surgical procedures, including selecting instruments, supplies, and equipment based on surgeon preference cards.

• Ensure all necessary supplies and equipment are available and properly prepared prior to each procedure.

• Maintain strict sterile and aseptic technique throughout surgical procedures.

• Perform appropriate surgical hand scrubs and properly don sterile attire and gloves.

• Set up and maintain sterile fields in accordance with established surgical standards and facility policies.

• Arrange instruments, equipment, and supplies on the Mayo stand and back table according to procedure requirements.

• Anticipate the needs of surgeons and other members of the surgical team throughout procedures.

• Safely pass instruments, sutures, sponges, suction, electrosurgical equipment, and other supplies as needed.

• Properly handle sharps and maintain a safe surgical environment.

• Monitor and maintain the sterile field, including drapes, instruments, equipment, and personnel.

• Assist with monitoring the operative field and recognizing potential complications or changes that may require immediate attention.

• Properly identify, handle, and prepare surgical specimens according to established policies.

• Assist with sterile dressing application and completion of procedures.

• Prepare used instruments and supplies for appropriate transport, decontamination, sterilization, and reprocessing.

• Properly handle, clean, disinfect, and store surgical instruments and equipment.

• Operate sterilization and instrument-processing equipment in accordance with manufacturer instructions and facility procedures.

• Assist with operating room turnover, case preparation, and terminal cleaning.

• Maintain appropriate inventory levels and assist with stocking surgical supplies.

• Follow all infection prevention and control procedures, including OSHA standards and appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Assist with the orientation and training of new staff, students, and approved program participants.

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and other clinical performance improvement activities.

• Attend staff meetings, educational programs, and required training.

• Maintain all required certifications and demonstrate the ability to respond appropriately during emergency situations.

• Maintain strict patient confidentiality and professional standards at all times.

• Provide professional and courteous interactions with patients, physicians, staff, and visitors.

• Perform additional duties as needed to support safe and efficient surgical operations.

Surgical Environment

The Surgical Technologist may support a variety of procedures, including:

• Orthopedic procedures

• Plastic surgery

• Laser procedures

• Local procedures

• Other outpatient surgical cases

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program.

• Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification preferred.

• Current CPR certification required.

• Strong knowledge of sterile technique, surgical instrumentation, and operating room procedures.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to anticipate the needs of surgeons and other members of the surgical team.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.

• Ability to remain calm and effective in a fast-paced and stressful surgical environment.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to patient safety and quality care.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for prolonged periods during surgical procedures.

• Ability to lift, move, and transport patients as required.

• Ability to lift and transport instrument trays and equipment weighing up to approximately 40 pounds.

• Manual dexterity necessary to safely handle surgical instruments and equipment.

• Ability to hear and understand verbal instructions in a surgical environment.

• Near vision sufficient to accurately identify instruments, supplies, and surgical materials.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a surgical/healthcare environment.

• Position may involve exposure to cleaning chemicals, disinfectants, and other hazardous materials.

• May involve exposure to electrical equipment, surgical lasers, blood, bodily fluids, and other occupational hazards.

• Must follow all applicable safety, infection control, OSHA, and universal precaution requirements.

• Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be utilized whenever required.

Confidentiality & Professional Standards

The Surgical Technologist is expected to maintain strict confidentiality regarding patient information and adhere to all applicable privacy, safety, infection prevention, and professional standards.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions associated with the position.