Circulating Technologist

Job Description

Circulating technologists are specialists in the surgical technologist field. They are called the “unsterile” member of the surgical team, performing such tasks as interviewing a patient before surgery, preparing the patient for surgery, helping with anesthesia, and obtaining and opening packages for the “sterile” people who then later remove the sterile contents during surgical procedures.

The circulating technologist is also responsible for keeping a written record of the surgery and answering the surgeon’s questions about the patient. They play an integral part in the surgical team, though in a more logistical and less hands-on role. It may not sound like it at first read, but this position is considered a step-up the career ladder from the standard surgical technologist role.

Salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an annual salary of $39,000 for circulating technologists in 2008. This varies to as low as $27,000 and as high as $54,000 or more. Circulating technologists in specialty hospitals had the potential for the most income.

Training and Qualifications

Training and qualifications are similar to the requirements found in surgical tech programs. Since circulating technologists are consdered an advancement from the position of surgical technologist, oftentimes the surgical technology degree and job experience in that role is enough to achieve a position in this field. Some institutions, however, do require additional education, licensure, and several years understanding the operations of a surgery team.

Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics includes circulating technologists as a sub-categorical of the general surgical technology field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 25 percent job growth rate for surgical technologists in the 2008-2018 decade, though specific growth projections for circulating technologists are not offered. Careers in circular technology, however, can be reasonably expected to grow at a commensurate rate.

Advancement

Circulating technologists are considered the top advancement from the standard surgical technologist position. However, like with many other healthcare professions, circulating technologists may find career growth with additional experience which allows them to pursue managerial positions within clinical settings.

Learn More

To learn more about the surgical tech schools in your area, fill out our school finder widget at the top left side of the page. Or, for information about other career paths, take a look at our medical technician careers page.