As a surgical technologist, you play a crucial role in the operating room, ensuring that surgeries are performed safely and efficiently. However, you may be wondering how to boost your salary in this field. Fortunately, there are several ways to increase your earning potential as a surgical tech in Mississippi. In this article, we'll explore five ways to boost your surgical tech salary in MS.
Understanding the Surgical Tech Salary in MS
Before we dive into the ways to boost your salary, let's take a look at the average surgical tech salary in Mississippi. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for surgical technologists in Mississippi was $44,490 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer.
1. Gain Experience and Build Your Skills
One of the most effective ways to boost your surgical tech salary in MS is to gain experience and build your skills. The more experience you have, the more valuable you become to your employer. Consider specializing in a particular area of surgery, such as orthopedic or neurosurgery, to increase your earning potential.
Key Skills to Develop:
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to work well under pressure
- Knowledge of surgical procedures and instrumentation
- Basic life support certification
- Ability to lift and move patients safely
2. Pursue Certification and Education
Pursuing certification and education can also help boost your surgical tech salary in MS. The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) and is recognized as the standard for the profession.
Certification and Education Options:
- Associate's degree in surgical technology
- CST certification
- Continuing education courses and workshops
- Specialized training in areas such as robotic surgery or laser technology
3. Consider Working in a High-Demand Area
Working in a high-demand area can also help boost your surgical tech salary in MS. Areas with a high demand for surgical technologists tend to offer higher salaries to attract and retain top talent.
High-Demand Areas in MS:
- Jackson
- Gulfport
- Southaven
- Hattiesburg
- Biloxi
4. Network and Join Professional Organizations
Networking and joining professional organizations can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, which can help boost your surgical tech salary in MS.
Professional Organizations:
- Association of Surgical Technologists (AST)
- National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
- American College of Surgeons (ACS)
5. Negotiate Your Salary
Finally, don't be afraid to negotiate your salary. If you feel that you're underpaid, do some research to determine the average salary for surgical technologists in your area and make a case for why you deserve a raise.
Salary Negotiation Tips:
- Research the market value of your role
- Highlight your skills and experience
- Be confident and assertive
- Be open to compromise
Conclusion
Boosting your surgical tech salary in MS requires a combination of experience, education, and negotiation. By following these five tips, you can increase your earning potential and achieve your career goals.
What is the average salary for surgical technologists in MS?
+The average salary for surgical technologists in MS is around $44,490 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How can I increase my salary as a surgical technologist?
+You can increase your salary by gaining experience, pursuing certification and education, working in high-demand areas, networking and joining professional organizations, and negotiating your salary.
What are some high-demand areas for surgical technologists in MS?
+Some high-demand areas for surgical technologists in MS include Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, Hattiesburg, and Biloxi.