Certified Surgical Tech Lead - Sign-On Bonus

Tennova Healthcare- North Knoxville Medical Center; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Tennova Healthcare- North Knoxville Medical Center is seeking a Surgical Technician Lead to support the surgical team by preparing operating rooms, organizing instruments, and assisting with procedures under the surgeon and RN.

Responsibilities include mentoring technicians, maintaining aseptic technique, performing instrument counts, and contributing to schedule planning and quality initiatives while upholding patient safety and high-quality care.

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology program is required.
• 3-5 years of experience as a surgical technician is required.
• Prior lead or preceptor experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepares the operating room and instruments for scheduled procedures.
• Assists during procedures by passing instruments promptly.
• Maintain aseptic technique and infection control.
• Conducts sponge, needle, and instrument counts with the circulating nurse.
• Label and retain specimens for pathology and document accurately.
• Support room turnover and restock instruments and supplies.
• Train and supervise surgical technicians and team members.
• Maintain regular attendance and comply with policies.

Skills

Surgical instrumentation

Sterile technique

Anatomy knowledge

Communication

Team leadership

Education

Accredited Surgical Technology program

Job description

Job Summary

The Surgical Technician Lead supports the surgical team by preparing operating rooms, organizing surgical instruments and supplies, and assisting with procedures under the direction of a surgeon and registered nurse. This role ensures adherence to aseptic and infection prevention practices while facilitating high-quality patient care. In addition to performing advanced technical duties, the Lead provides guidance and training to surgical technicians, assists with scheduling and quality initiatives, and contributes to a positive and collaborative work environment.

Essential Functions

• Prepares the operating room and surgical field with necessary instruments, equipment, and supplies for scheduled procedures.
• Assists the surgical team during procedures by anticipating the surgeon’s needs and passing instruments in a timely, efficient manner.
• Applies knowledge of aseptic technique, Universal Precautions, and sterilization methods to ensure infection control and patient safety.
• Conducts and documents sponge, needle, and instrument counts with the circulating nurse according to established protocols.
• Retains and labels surgical specimens appropriately for pathology and ensures accurate documentation.
• Performs point-of-use cleaning and transports surgical instruments to designated areas for decontamination and sterilization.
• Assists with room turnover between cases and ensures proper cleaning, storage, and restocking of instruments and supplies.
• Supports the maintenance and updating of physician preference cards.
• Assists in the orientation, training, and ongoing competency of surgical technicians and other team members.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology program required
• 3-5 years of experience as a surgical technician required
• Prior experience in a lead or preceptor role preferred

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• In-depth knowledge of surgical instrumentation, sterile technique, and operating room procedures.
• Strong understanding of anatomy, physiology, and procedures relevant to surgical services.
• Ability to anticipate surgeon needs and assist efficiently during procedures.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Knowledge of infection control and safety regulations and adherence to hospital protocols.
• Ability to train and support other team members.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Ability to remain calm in high-stress or emergent situations.

Licenses and Certifications

• CST - Certified Surgical Technologist required
• BCLS - Basic Life Support required
• ABLS - Advanced Burn Life Support preferred

State Specific Requirements

• Mississippi: BLS certification required, Surgical Technician certification is preferred