Lead Surgical Technologist

UPMC; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

UPMC is seeking a Lead Surgical Technologist to join a high-performing surgical team in the OR. You will work alongside the circulating RN and team to deliver safe, efficient care across procedures, serving as the lead resource for technologists during shifts and mentoring new staff.

The role supports 24/7 coverage with rotating shifts, requiring strong teamwork, ongoing education, and attention to patient safety. A formal surgical tech program and OR experience are expected.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of operating room experience.
• Formal surgical technician certification (CST/TSC) required.
• Strong leadership and mentoring mindset.

Responsibilities

• Serve as lead resource for surgical technologists during shifts.
• Provide real-time guidance, troubleshooting, and support to staff.
• Precept and mentor new employees and students.
• Facilitate ongoing education and in-service training.
• Coordinate day-to-day workflow and case scheduling.
• Liaise with Sterile Processing to ensure equipment readiness.

Skills

Surgical OR leadership

Staff mentoring

Team collaboration

CST/TSC certification

Education

Surgical Technologist credential

Tools

Epro access

Job description

Lead Surgical Technologist

Step Into a Leadership Role in the OR

Purpose

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.

We offer flexible opportunities, including 24/7 coverage, night and weekend programs, and rotating positions, supported by a culture built on strong teamwork and collaboration.

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

• Coordinate 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

What Sets You Apart

• Experience supporting complex surgical procedures across multiple specialties (3+)
• Strong leadership mindset with a passion for teamwork and mentoring
• Ability to thrive in a 24/7 environment, including nights, weekends, or rotating shifts
• Commitment to high-quality patient care and continuous improvement

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
• 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.
• Access to medications is limited to the distribution of the medication to the nurse.Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances: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.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) OR Tech in Surgery-Certified (TSC)

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran