Surgical assistants and technologists
🤍 Save CareerSurgical assistants and technologists play a vital role in the US economy, with 141K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $62,480, with projected growth of 5% through 2034 (Faster than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
moderate — 5% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Surgical assistants and technologists
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Surgical assistants and technologists
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
The core of this occupation is highly physical, requiring manual dexterity, sterile technique, and real-time presence in an operating room. While AI and robotics can assist with surgical precision or inventory management, the role remains centered on hands-on patient care and physical equipment handling that cannot be digitized.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $62,480, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in surgical assistants and technologists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Surgical assistants and technologists make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Surgical assistants and technologists is $62,480 per year. Entry-level positions start around $37,488, while experienced professionals can earn up to $99,968 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Surgical assistants and technologists?▼
Entry typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is certificate.
What degree do you need to be a Surgical assistants and technologists?▼
Most Surgical assistants and technologists positions require certificate. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Surgical assistants and technologists?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Surgical assistants and technologists. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Surgical assistants and technologists do on a daily basis?▼
As a surgical assistants and technologist, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Surgical assistants and technologists a good career in 2026?▼
With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $62,480, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 5%, which is declining. The median salary of $62,480 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Surgical assistants and technologistss?▼
Surgical assistants and technologists has an AI automation risk score of 30/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Surgical assistants and technologists?▼
Anyone interested in surgical assistants and technologists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Surgical assistants and technologists Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Surgical assistants and technologists matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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