Certified Surgical Technician

Community Health Systems • Knoxville, TN

2d

About The Position

The Certified Surgical Technician works collaboratively with the surgical team to facilitate safe, effective, high-quality patient care in the operating room. The role prepares and maintains the sterile field, anticipates surgical team needs, and ensures proper handling of surgical instruments and supplies. It also supports operating room efficiency through equipment readiness, inventory management, and adherence to infection prevention protocols.

Requirements

• Graduate of a technical school Surgical Technology or Practical Nursing program, or an associate degree in Surgical Technology or Applied Sciences.
• 0–2 years of operating room surgical technician experience.
• Expertise in surgical techniques, instrumentation, and sterile processing.
• Ability to anticipate the needs of the surgical team and respond quickly during procedures.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Knowledge of regulatory and accreditation standards, including safety and infection control protocols.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with the perioperative team.
• Commitment to patient safety and high-quality care.
• Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification required.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare the operating room by ensuring surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies are properly set up and available based on the procedure and physician preference card.
• Maintain a sterile field throughout the procedure, applying Universal Precautions, asepsis, and sterile technique.
• Anticipate the surgeon’s needs and pass instruments and supplies accurately and efficiently during procedures.
• Handle surgical instruments and equipment according to manufacturer instructions and hospital policy, including inspection, point-of-use cleaning, and sterilization.
• Perform and document sponge, needle, and instrument counts in collaboration with the circulating nurse.
• Assist with patient positioning, draping, and transfer under the direction of the RN.
• Support the maintenance and accuracy of physician preference cards and procedural documentation.
• Restock supplies, clean and return equipment to designated storage areas, and prepare rooms for subsequent cases.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Comply with all policies and standards.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree