Lead Surgical Technologist
About the role
Join a high-performing surgical team where your expertise, leadership, and collaboration directly impact patient outcomes. As a Lead Surgical Technologist, you’ll work side-by-side with the circulating RN and surgical team to deliver safe, efficient care across a variety of procedures. You’ll take the lead in supporting team operations while continuing to provide hands-on patient care in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
What You’ll Do
Lead & Support the Team
Serve as the lead resource for surgical technologists during assigned shifts
Provide real-time guidance, troubleshooting, and support to staff
Precept and mentor new employees and students
Facilitate ongoing education, including annual in-service training
Deliver Exceptional Patient Care
Work directly with the circulating RN and surgical team to support patient care throughout procedures
Prepare patients for surgery, ensuring proper positioning, draping, and aseptic technique
Maintain a safe, clean OR environment with continuous attention to patient safety
Perform at a High Level in the OR
Manage sterile setup and maintain the sterile field
Efficiently pass instruments, sutures, and supplies during procedures
Assist surgeons with retraction, suctioning, sponging, and counts
Handle specimens and assist with application of dressings
Drive Daily Operations
Cook up the day-to-day workflow and serve as shift lead
Assist with case scheduling as part of the OR process
Liaise with Sterile Processing to ensure equipment readiness
Maintain and update surgeon preference cards
Ensure Readiness & Efficiency
Monitor, restock, and manage instrumentation, supplies, and equipment
Verify proper labeling and handling of medications per policy
Order specialty items and support inventory management (Epro access)
Promote cost-effective use of resources
Post-Procedure Support
Assist with patient transfer to recovery
Clean, reset, and prepare the OR for the next case
Why Join Us?
Be part of a collaborative, team-focused OR environment
Work closely with skilled surgeons and circulating RNs
Opportunities for leadership and professional growth
Qualifications
Completion of a formal surgical technician program offered by a community or junior college, vocational school, university, hospital or the military.
A minimum of 4 years or more of Operating Room experience required.
Advanced knowledge of at least 3 surgical specialties.
Receive a Solid/Strong/Good or higher on last performance evaluation.
CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire.
Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) or Technologist Surgery Certified (TSC) required.
Benefits
Earn over 5 weeks of paid time off every year
Affordable medical, dental & vision coverage
Student loan assistance and tuition reimbursement options
Earn up to 8% of your eligible pay in retirement contributions from UPMC
Employer-paid life insurance