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?
- 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