Surgical Technician II - Surgery - Per Diem 10 Hour Rotating Shifts (Non-Exempt) (Union)

University of Southern California; Glendale (CA); On-site; USD 47,527 - 80,796; Part time

Job summary

A renowned educational institution in California is seeking a Surgical Technician II for per diem shifts. Responsibilities include maintaining the sterile field, assisting the surgical team during procedures, and preparing the operating room. Candidates must possess a High School diploma, complete a CAAHEP accredited Surgical Technician Program, and have a valid CST certification along with recent active practice. The position offers an hourly rate ranging from $34.50 to $58.65, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• One-year experience as a Surgical Technician or paid surgical technician intern.
• Active practice as a surgical technician within the past six months.

Responsibilities

• Perform intermediate to advanced level surgical responsibilities.
• Maintain ongoing communication with the surgical team during procedures.
• Prepare the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and supplies.

Skills

Organization and time-management skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Completion of a CAAHEP accredited Surgical Technician Program

Job description

Surgical Technician II - Surgery - Per Diem 10 Hour Rotating Shifts (Non-Exempt) (Union)

Under general guidance of the Registered Nurse, the Surgical Tech II applies, demonstrates, and possesses proficient/advanced knowledge, competencies, and skills of surgical and aseptic techniques and practices; assists the surgical team and performs a variety of tasks in an operating room; prepares, sterilizes, and cleans up surgical equipment and instruments; and is responsible for the care and safety of patients who come under his/her care. The Surgical Tech II is generally assigned a triad of surgical/operative procedures and exercises critical thinking and independent judgment.

Responsibilities

• Performs similar responsibilities as the Surgical Tech I but as an intermediate to advanced level; typically assigned a triad of difficult surgical/operative procedures (e.g., Head, Neck, Neuro, Spine, and/or Orthopedic).
• Adheres to all safety standards and policies (surgical, specimen collection, sterile processing, Title 22, JCAHO).
• Applies principles of aseptic technique and initiates prompt corrective actions when breaks occur.
• Remains attentive throughout the procedure, anticipating the needs of the surgical team and responding appropriately during intraoperative emergencies.
• Maintains ongoing communication with the circulating nurse and other team members regarding changes in patient status or progress of surgery.
• Arranges and inventories sterile set‑up for operation.
• Facilitates smooth flow of the intervention (preparing with updated preference cards, knowledge of instruments and equipment).
• Performs scrub role (anticipating team needs, passing instruments, cutting sutures, etc.) according to standards.
• Prepares, cleans, and maintains instruments, equipment, and related items per established guidelines.
• Transports patients, equipment, supplies, and specimens.
• Prepares the operating room by setting up tables, instruments, and supplies according to the case/operative procedure.
• Performs preceptor role in training students.
• Participates in decision‑making activities related to acquiring surgical equipment and supplies.
• Recommends and implements process improvement projects.
• May mentor and/or lead other surgical technicians.
• May assist with circulating tasks.
• Performs all duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of a CAAHEP accredited Surgical Technician Program.
• One‑year experience as a Surgical Technician or paid surgical technician intern (with internship completed at Keck Medicine of USC).
• Active practice as a surgical technician within the past six (6) months.
• Organization and time‑management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• — (none listed)

Required Licenses / Certifications

• Valid Surgical Technologist (CST) certification from CAAHEP or ABHES.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider certification from the American Heart Association.
• Fire Life Safety Training (LA City) – must obtain card within 30 days if not already held; renewal required before expiration. (Applicable only within LA City.)

The hourly rate range for this position is $34.50 - $58.65. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Job ID REQ20164546

Posted Date 07/28/2025 – Apply

Current employees apply here.