Surgical Technologist in Washington
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for WA. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
Median annual salary
$73,460
trending_up
+16.9% vs. national
BLS OEWS 2024, Washington.
engineering
2,380
Jobs (WA)
monitoring
Strong
+4.5%
10-yr job growth
payments
$420
Licensing fees
schedule
12-24 months for education program; 3-5 weeks for application processing
Time to complete
route How to become a surgical technologist in Washington
To become a Surgical Technologist in Washington, individuals must register with the Washington State Department of Health. While the state does not mandate specific education or national certification for registration, employers typically require graduation from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program and national certification, such as the NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. The application process involves submitting an application, undergoing a background check, and paying a fee.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
10th percentile (entry)
$52,660
25th percentile
$61,350
50th (median)
$73,460
75th percentile
$83,260
90th (experienced)
$101,130
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Washington. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Washington requirements
| Licensing body | Washington State Department of Health |
| State license | Not required |
| Education | Completion of an approved education program recognized by Washington State. While not mandated by the state for registration, national certification (CST through NBSTSA or TS-C through NCCT) is typically required by employers and the CST exam requires graduation from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program. |
| Exam | National certification (CST or TS-C) is typically required by employers, but not by the state for registration. The CST exam is administered by the NBSTSA. ($350) |
| Application fee | $70 |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Notes | Washington requires state registration for surgical technologists. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. A clean background check is mandatory. Credentials expire on the credential holder's birthday. While not required for state registration, national certification (CST or TS-C) is typically required by employers. The CST exam requires graduation from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program. There are no continuing education requirements for state registration renewal. |
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
arrow_forward
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Frequently asked questions
How do you get certified as a surgical technologist in Washington? expand_more
In Washington, becoming a surgical technologist requires you to complete the required education (Completion of an approved education program recognized by Washington State. While not mandated by the state for registration, national certification (CST through NBSTSA or TS-C through NCCT) is typically required by employers and the CST exam requires graduation from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program.), pass the National certification (CST or TS-C) is typically required by employers, but not by the state for registration. The CST exam is administered by the NBSTSA., and submit your application ($70 fee).
Can I work as a surgical technologist in Washington without a license? expand_more
Washington does not require a state license for surgical technologists. Note: Washington requires state registration for surgical technologists. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. A clean background check is mandatory. Credentials expire on the credential holder's birthday. While not required for state registration, national certification (CST or TS-C) is typically required by employers. The CST exam requires graduation from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program. There are no continuing education requirements for state registration renewal.
How much do surgical technologists make in Washington? expand_more
In Washington, the median pay for surgical technologists comes to $73,460/year. — 17% higher than the $62,830 national figure. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $52,660, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $101,130.
How much does it cost to become a surgical technologist in Washington? expand_more
Plan on spending varies total — that covers exam fee ($350) and application fee ($70) plus your education and training.
How long does it take to become a surgical technologist in Washington? expand_more
In Washington, becoming a surgical technologist generally takes 12-24 months for education program; 3-5 weeks for application processing, accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.
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