Career profile · SOC 29-2055

Surgical technologists

Surgical technologists is an occupation catalogued under SOC 29-2055. The role reports a median annual salary of $62,830 in the US and is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Entry typically requires a Postsecondary nondegree award, and shows moderate AI exposure (0.42 on a 0-1 scale) — some tasks are being automated but the role adapts.

Median salary
$62,830
per year
Growth outlook
Average
BLS 10-yr
Education
Postsecondary nondegree award
AI exposure
4.15/10
automation risk

Frequently asked questions

How much does Surgical technologists earn?

The median annual salary for Surgical technologists in the US is $62,830.

What is the job outlook for Surgical technologists?

The role is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Current US employment is approximately 115,600 workers.

How do I become surgical technologists?

The typical entry education is a Postsecondary nondegree award. Building a foundation in the top skills below will strengthen your application.

Will AI replace Surgical technologists?

Our AI-durability model gives Surgical technologists a score of 0.42 on a 0-1 scale (higher = more exposure). That places it at moderate AI exposure — some tasks are being automated but the role adapts. Learning to work with AI tools rather than against them is the path forward.

How hard is it to enter this field?

Surgical technologists has low barrier to entry — generally accessible — you can enter with basic credentials and on-the-job learning.

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