Surgical Technologist in New Jersey

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

Median annual salary

$71,370

trending_up +13.6% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, New Jersey.

engineering

2,720

Jobs (NJ)

monitoring Strong

+4.5%

10-yr job growth

payments

$550

Licensing fees

schedule

9-24 months

Time to complete

route How to become a surgical technologist in New Jersey

To become a Surgical Technologist in New Jersey, individuals must either complete a nationally or regionally accredited educational program for surgical technologists or hold and maintain a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). While New Jersey does not issue a state license, it does have specific requirements for practicing in healthcare facilities. Applicants must pass the NBSTSA CST exam and a comprehensive background check.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $46,200

25th percentile $60,820

50th (median) $71,370

75th percentile $80,830

90th (experienced) $95,860

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

checklist New Jersey requirements

Licensing body	New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Medical Examiners
State license	Not required
Education	Completion of a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited surgical technology program.
Exam	NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam ($350)
Application fee	$200
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing education	30.0 hours per cycle
Notes	New Jersey law mandates that all surgical technologists must graduate from an accredited program or hold a certified surgical technologist credential from a recognized organization. Applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. The state does not have a specific minimum age requirement for surgical technologists.

Source: New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Medical Examiners

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

What's required to work as a surgical technologist in New Jersey? expand_more

New Jersey requires surgical technologists to complete the required education (Completion of a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited surgical technology program.), pass the NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam, and submit your application ($200 fee).

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

No state license is needed to work as a surgical technologist in New Jersey. Note: New Jersey law mandates that all surgical technologists must graduate from an accredited program or hold a certified surgical technologist credential from a recognized organization. Applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. The state does not have a specific minimum age requirement for surgical technologists.

What is the average surgical technologist salary in New Jersey? expand_more

New Jersey surgical technologists bring home a median salary of $71,370. — 14% higher than the $62,830 national figure. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $46,200, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $95,860.

How expensive is surgical technologist licensing in New Jersey? expand_more

Costs include exam fee ($350) and application fee ($200). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.

What's the timeline to become a surgical technologist in New Jersey? expand_more

Most candidates in New Jersey complete the process in 9-24 months, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.

How many CE hours do surgical technologists need in New Jersey? expand_more

Yes — surgical technologists in New Jersey must complete 30.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.

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