Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, play a vital role in the healthcare industry. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to ensure that surgical procedures are carried out safely and efficiently. Atlanta, being a major city in the United States, offers a wide range of job opportunities for surgical technologists. In this article, we will explore the top paying jobs for surgical technologists in Atlanta and provide an overview of the salary range for this profession.
The Importance of Surgical Technologists
Surgical technologists are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and maintaining asepsis during surgical procedures. They also assist surgeons and nurses during the procedure, handing them instruments and supplies as needed. Their role is crucial in ensuring that patients receive the best possible care during surgery.
Surgical Tech Salaries in Atlanta
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for surgical technologists in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA Metropolitan Division was $54,490 in May 2020. However, salaries can range from around $40,000 to over $70,000 per year, depending on factors such as experience, education, and employer.
Here are some average salary ranges for surgical technologists in Atlanta:
- Entry-level (0-2 years of experience): $40,000 - $50,000 per year
- Mid-level (2-5 years of experience): $50,000 - $60,000 per year
- Senior-level (5-10 years of experience): $60,000 - $70,000 per year
- Lead or supervisory roles (10+ years of experience): $70,000 - $80,000 per year
Top Paying Jobs for Surgical Technologists in Atlanta
Here are some of the top paying jobs for surgical technologists in Atlanta:
- Certified Surgical Technologist - Cardiovascular Operating Room: Emory University Hospital is seeking a certified surgical technologist to join their cardiovascular operating room team. The salary range for this position is $65,000 - $80,000 per year.
- Surgical Technologist - Neurosurgery: Northside Hospital is looking for a surgical technologist to join their neurosurgery team. The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $75,000 per year.
- Operating Room Technician - Orthopedic Surgery: Piedmont Atlanta Hospital is seeking an operating room technician to join their orthopedic surgery team. The salary range for this position is $55,000 - $70,000 per year.
- Surgical Technologist - Pediatric Surgery: Children's Healthcare of Atlanta is looking for a surgical technologist to join their pediatric surgery team. The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $75,000 per year.
- Lead Surgical Technologist - General Surgery: Grady Health System is seeking a lead surgical technologist to join their general surgery team. The salary range for this position is $70,000 - $85,000 per year.
How to Increase Your Salary as a Surgical Technologist in Atlanta
Here are some tips to increase your salary as a surgical technologist in Atlanta:
- Get certified: Obtain certification as a surgical technologist (CST) or a certified operating room technician (CORT).
- Gain experience: The more experience you have, the higher your salary will be.
- Specialize: Consider specializing in a particular area of surgery, such as cardiovascular or neurosurgery.
- Pursue further education: Consider pursuing a degree in a related field, such as nursing or healthcare administration.
- Join professional organizations: Join professional organizations, such as the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST), to stay up-to-date on industry developments and networking opportunities.
Conclusion
Surgical technologists play a vital role in the healthcare industry, and Atlanta offers a range of job opportunities for this profession. While salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience and education, there are many top paying jobs available for surgical technologists in Atlanta. By getting certified, gaining experience, specializing, pursuing further education, and joining professional organizations, you can increase your salary and advance your career as a surgical technologist in Atlanta.
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist in Atlanta?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist in Atlanta is around $54,490 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How can I increase my salary as a surgical technologist in Atlanta?
+Consider getting certified, gaining experience, specializing, pursuing further education, and joining professional organizations to increase your salary as a surgical technologist in Atlanta.
What are the top paying jobs for surgical technologists in Atlanta?
+Some of the top paying jobs for surgical technologists in Atlanta include certified surgical technologist - cardiovascular operating room, surgical technologist - neurosurgery, operating room technician - orthopedic surgery, surgical technologist - pediatric surgery, and lead surgical technologist - general surgery.