CVOR Surgical Tech Jobs: What Open-Heart Work Is Really Like
A CVOR posting that pays more is often selling call. Here is what open-heart scrub work, orientation, and the phone actually look like before you bid.
PRN and Per Diem Surgical Tech Jobs: When the Higher Rate Is Worth It
Staffing cancels your PRN shift at 5:40 a.m. The higher hourly rate does not cover the hours you never worked or the health insurance you now buy yourself.
How to Pass the CST Exam on Your First Try Without Buying Every Question Bank
You finished clinicals and then a question bank made you feel like you had never been in a room. Here is a first-try CST study plan that does not require…
Where Surgical Techs Are Getting Hired in 2026 (and How to Pick a Market)
Recruiters will sell you a city. Techs will sell you a Facebook rumor. Here is how to read surgical tech hiring in 2026 and pick a market that still works…
Surgical Tech vs Circulating Nurse vs First Assist: Who Does What in the Room
A student shadows one Tuesday and sees three people in blue: one is opening pans, one is on the computer, one is holding a retractor and talking to the surgeon…
How to Negotiate Surgical Tech Pay, Differentials, and a Sign-On Bonus
The recruiter says, “The rate for this CST role is $31.50, and we have a $10,000 sign-on if you start in June.” You have eight years, you take hearts call,…
Labor and Delivery Surgical Tech Jobs: What the Work Is Really Like
A main-OR friend tells you the L&D tech job is the move: “It’s mostly scheduled sections, you get out of neuro and call with Dr. Nightmare, and the nights are…
CST Recertification and CE Credits Without Wasting Money
Your manager forwards an email in March: “CST expires June 30. Employee health needs a current card on file.” You thought you had time. You have a folder of random…
Should You Relocate for a Surgical Tech Job?
A recruiter texts you a number that is three dollars an hour higher than your current rate, plus a $15,000 sign-on, plus “we really need CSTs.” The hospital is 900…
How to Read a Surgical Tech Job Posting and Spot the Red Flags
You apply to 40 surgical tech jobs in six weeks. Half never answer. Ten send the same Workday rejection on a Sunday night. Two call you, sound upbeat, then mention…