Certified Surgical Technologist at Southern Pines Orthopaedic Surgery Center – Southern Pines, North Carolina

The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) functions as an integral member of the surgical team in a high-volume ambulatory surgery center with up to six operating rooms. This role is responsible for preparing and maintaining the sterile field, anticipating surgeon needs, and ensuring efficient and safe intraoperative support for orthopaedic surgical procedures.

The CST must demonstrate strong knowledge of orthopaedic instrumentation, implants, sterile technique, and surgical workflows to support optimal patient outcomes and on-time case starts.

Surgical Preparation

• Prepare operating rooms for orthopaedic procedures, including picking surgical cases and checking for accuracy the day prior, setup of instruments, equipment, implants, and supplies.
• Perform surgical counts in collaboration with the circulating nurse per policy.
• Ensure proper sterilization and functionality of instruments and equipment prior to procedures.

Intraoperative Support

• Always maintain sterile technique and integrity of the sterile field.
• Anticipate surgeon needs and efficiently pass instruments and supplies.
• Assist with orthopaedic procedures including total joints, arthroscopy, sports medicine, fracture fixation, spine, and possibly interventional pain.
• Handle orthopaedic implants, power equipment, and specialty instrumentation safely and accurately.

Patient Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to infection prevention protocols and universal precautions.
• Participate in time-outs and patient safety verification processes.
• Ensure compliance with AAAHC and facility regulatory standards.
• Report equipment issues, safety concerns, or process improvements to leadership.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesia providers, RNs, and sterile processing staff.
• Assist with room turnover to maintain efficient case flow.
• Support inventory management and supply organization specific to orthopaedic service lines.
• Other Duties as assigned

Qualifications

Education & Certification

• Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology program.
• Current certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or equivalent required.
• Current BLS certification required.

Experience

• Minimum 2 years of surgical technologist experience required.
• Orthopaedic surgery experience is strongly preferred.
• Experience in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of orthopaedic instrumentation and implants.
• Proficiency with power tools and specialty orthopaedic equipment.
• Knowledge of sterile technique and infection control standards.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced surgical environment.
• Strong attention to detail and teamwork skills.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged standing during surgical procedures.
• Ability to lift and move surgical trays and equipment (up to 30 pounds).
• Manual dexterity to handle instruments and equipment precisely.
• Ability to bend, reach, and move quickly within the operating room environment.
• Visual acuity is sufficient to distinguish between fine detail and color variations.