Surgical Technologist in Connecticut

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for CT. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary

$80,590

trending_up +28.3% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Connecticut.

engineering

1,220

Jobs (CT)

monitoring Strong

+4.5%

10-yr job growth

payments

$330

Licensing fees

schedule

9-24 months for education program

Time to complete

route How to become a surgical technologist in Connecticut

To become a Surgical Technologist in Connecticut, while a state license is not required, most healthcare facilities mandate national certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Aspiring surgical technologists must successfully complete a nationally accredited surgical technology program and pass the CST exam. Certification renewal requires 60 continuing education hours every four years, with an application fee of $40.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $48,460

25th percentile $63,630

50th (median) $80,590

75th percentile $91,080

90th (experienced) $102,350

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Connecticut. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Connecticut requirements

Licensing body	National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
State license	Not required
Education	Graduation from a nationally accredited surgical technology program (CAAHEP or ABHES accredited)
Exam	CST Exam ($290)
Application fee	$40
Renewal	Every 4.0 years
Continuing education	60.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Connecticut does not have state-level licensing for Surgical Technologists. However, state law (C.G.S. § 20-185aa) requires individuals performing surgical technology services in healthcare facilities to meet specific criteria, which typically includes national certification from the NBSTSA. Other pathways exist for those employed before October 1, 2023, military trained individuals, or those designated competent by a healthcare facility based on specialized training or experience. Most employers require national certification (CST).

Source: National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth

+4.5%

Faster than average

Annual openings

7,000

Nationwide per year

Total employment

115,600

Nationwide

neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -0.48/1.00

This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

infoNo state license required — lower barrier but weaker signal
check_circleLow AI disruption risk

psychology

Wondering if a surgical technologist career is the right fit?

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Frequently asked questions

How do you get certified as a surgical technologist in Connecticut? expand_more

In Connecticut, becoming a surgical technologist requires you to complete the required education (Graduation from a nationally accredited surgical technology program (CAAHEP or ABHES accredited)), pass the CST Exam, and submit your application ($40 fee).

Can I work as a surgical technologist in Connecticut without a license? expand_more

surgical technologists in Connecticut are not required to hold a state license. Note: Connecticut does not have state-level licensing for Surgical Technologists. However, state law (C.G.S. § 20-185aa) requires individuals performing surgical technology services in healthcare facilities to meet specific criteria, which typically includes national certification from the NBSTSA. Other pathways exist for those employed before October 1, 2023, military trained individuals, or those designated competent by a healthcare facility based on specialized training or experience. Most employers require national certification (CST).

How much do surgical technologists make in Connecticut? expand_more

Connecticut surgical technologists bring home a median salary of $80,590. — 28% higher than the $62,830 national figure. New surgical technologists start around $48,460; seasoned professionals can reach $102,350.

How much does it cost to become a surgical technologist in Connecticut? expand_more

Between exam fee ($290) and application fee ($40), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

How quickly can I become a surgical technologist in Connecticut? expand_more

In Connecticut, becoming a surgical technologist generally takes 9-24 months for education program, accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.

Does Connecticut require continuing education for surgical technologists? expand_more

Yes — surgical technologists in Connecticut must complete 60.0 CE hours every 4.0 years to stay licensed.