Sr. Surgical Technologist

At Houston Methodist, the Sr Surgical Technologist position requires proficient knowledge and skills necessary to carry out delegated tasks associated with safe and efficient operating room support functions and related procedures. This position works independently, exercising sound judgment, and reports observations and patient problems to the licensed nurse or surgeon. In addition to performing the duties and responsibilities of a Surgical Technologist, the Sr Surgical Technologist provides mentoring and guidance for Surgical Technologist positions, utilizing skills and knowledge to help train and orient others.

This position is responsible for assigned non‑nursing functions and practices relationship‑centered care in concert with Houston Methodist values. Other duties for the Sr Surgical Technologist include general patient care and department upkeep as delegated by licensed personnel.

Non‑exempt

• High School diploma or equivalent education (e.g., GED, verified homeschool equivalency, or partial/full completion of post‑secondary education).
• Successful completion of an accredited Surgical Technology program or equivalent military training.

• Two years as a Surgical Technologist.

• BLS – Basic Life Support or Instructor (AHA) – American Heart Association.
• Certification (CST from NBSTSA, TS‑C from NCCT, or CSA from NCCSA) or grandfather clause to meet certification requirement for those employed before Sept. 1, 2009.
• 30 CEUs completed every two years (SB1239, Sec 259.002).

• Demonstrates required skills and competencies through ongoing assessments and performance evaluations.
• Proficient in speaking, reading, and writing English for essential functions.
• Effectively communicates with patients, physicians, family members, and co‑workers, maintaining a customer‑service focus.
• Understands medical terminology.
• Shows independence and sound judgment in interactions with physicians and the interprofessional care team.
• Proficient with hospital database (e.g., EPIC) and procedure software.
• Knowledgeable of instrument sets and surgical supplies.
• Competent in decontamination and use of autoclave equipment.
• Expertise and serves as a clinical resource in at least one surgical specialty service line.

• Promotes a positive work environment and facilitates open professional communication.
• Teaches critical thinking by verbally explaining decision rationale and providing structured feedback.
• Facilitates teamwork and responds positively to assistance requests.
• Serves as department preceptor for new surgical technologists.

• Prepares the operating room, equipment, and supplies for each patient.
• Anticipates instrument and supply needs, maintaining surgeon preference cards.
• Assists the circulating RN with counts of sponges, instruments, needles, and other items.
• Role‑models behaviors and skills to improve patient satisfaction scores.

• Maintains high standards of sterile technique and prepares sterile dressings.
• Assists with terminal cleaning of the room and implements safety initiatives.
• Participates in debriefing and quality improvement practices, reporting near misses and collaborating with the interprofessional team.

• Uses surgical supplies efficiently and recommends cost containment during cases.
• Manages time effectively, minimizes overtime, and prioritizes daily tasks.

• Identifies and presents innovation opportunities for departmental projects.
• May co‑chair a unit‑based Shared Governance Council and serve on departmental or hospital committees.
• Actively seeks opportunities to enhance knowledge and maintain a continuous development plan.

Work Attire
• Uniform:
  No
• Scrubs:
  Yes
• Business professional:
  No
• Other (department approved):
  No
On‑Call
• Employees may be required to be on‑call during emergencies (e.g., disaster, severe weather).
• On‑call:
  Yes
Travel
• May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area:
  No
• May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area:
  No