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Surgical Technologists

SOC 29-2055.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers the full perioperative practice environment of hospital-based Surgical Technologists, from basic sterile-field maintenance and instrument handling in general surgery to complex specialty cases, departmental leadership, and workforce development.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Sterile field boundaries — recognize and maintain under direct supervision during routine surgical procedures in a hospital operating room.
  2. Sponge, needle, and instrument counts — perform initial and closing counts by following established protocols with supervision from a senior scrub technologist.
  3. Surgical hand scrub technique — execute step-by-step arm and hand scrubbing procedure according to department guidelines before entering the sterile field.
  4. Sterile gowning and gloving — assist surgical team members in donning gloves, masks, and sterile clothing under the guidance of a circulating nurse.
  5. Patient positioning and draping — help position patients on the operating table and apply sterile surgical drapes following standard exposure-prevention protocols.
  6. Basic surgical instruments — identify common instruments by name and function during orientation rotations in general surgery cases.
  7. Tissue specimen handling — collect, label, and transfer specimens to designated containers under direct instruction from the surgeon or charge nurse.
  8. Equipment sterilization — wash and process reusable instruments using germicides and autoclaves in accordance with facility sterilization policies.
  9. Surgical supply preparation — gather and arrange required supplies on the back table before a scheduled procedure using a surgeon preference card.
  10. Medical software and documentation — enter basic case data into the operating room information system with oversight from an experienced team member.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Sterile field integrity — monitor and sustain a proper sterile field throughout varied surgical procedures with minimal prompting from the surgical team.
  2. Instrument and sponge reconciliation — conduct accurate pre- and post-operative counts independently and communicate discrepancies to the circulating nurse in a timely manner.
  3. Scrub team preparation — guide new team members through the scrubbing and gowning process, ensuring compliance with aseptic technique in the OR.
  4. Intraoperative instrument passing — anticipate surgeon needs and hand instruments, retractors, and sutures efficiently during routine general and specialty cases.
  5. Patient draping and positioning — set up and apply sterile drapes for multiple procedure types, adapting to patient anatomy and surgical access requirements.
  6. Technical assistance coordination — provide reliable support to surgeons and anesthesiologists by managing instrument tables and responding promptly to verbal directions.
  7. Specimen care and chain of custody — prepare, label, and document tissue specimens for laboratory analysis, maintaining proper chain of custody throughout.
  8. Sterilization quality assurance — verify that sterilization cycles meet required standards and document results in the facility's sterilization tracking database.
  9. Time management in the OR — organize back table setup and turnover tasks to meet scheduled case start times across multiple daily procedures.
  10. Critical incident recognition — identify breaks in sterile technique or equipment anomalies and report them promptly to the appropriate team member during live cases.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex sterile field management — maintain and troubleshoot the sterile field autonomously during multi-team, high-acuity surgical cases including trauma and cardiovascular procedures.
  2. Count discrepancy resolution — apply critical thinking to investigate and resolve sponge, needle, or instrument count discrepancies before wound closure under time pressure.
  3. Full-scope scrub service — scrub independently on the full range of surgical specialties, from orthopedics to neurosurgery, adapting technique to each discipline's requirements.
  4. Surgeon-level technical anticipation — predict instrument and supply needs throughout complex operative sequences, enabling uninterrupted surgical flow with minimal verbal communication.
  5. Non-routine patient preparation — manage positioning and draping for unusual anatomical presentations, robotic-assisted setups, and specialized equipment configurations.
  6. Intraoperative problem solving — evaluate and respond to unexpected equipment failures or supply shortfalls during live surgery, implementing contingency solutions without disrupting the operative field.
  7. Specimen integrity assurance — oversee preparation, preservation, and hand-off of multiple concurrent tissue specimens, ensuring pathology requirements are met for all case types.
  8. Sterilization program oversight — evaluate the efficacy of sterilization and disinfection processes across instrument categories, escalating concerns through proper safety channels.
  9. OR technology proficiency — utilize medical software, electronic documentation platforms, and cloud-based case management tools to maintain accurate records across a full case load.
  10. Active learning and specialty adaptation — independently study emerging surgical techniques and instrumentation to maintain competency as new procedures are adopted by the surgical service.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Sterile technique standards — establish and enforce evidence-based sterile field protocols across the surgical suite, reducing infection rates at the departmental level.
  2. Competency education and training — design and deliver orientation curricula and skills assessments for new surgical technologists and student scrub technicians in the OR setting.
  3. Surgical team coordination leadership — lead pre-operative briefings and coordinate cross-functional roles among surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists to optimize case efficiency and safety.
  4. Policy development for count procedures — author and implement department-wide sponge, needle, and instrument count policies aligned with AORN guidelines and accreditation standards.
  5. Mentorship and performance development — coach developing technologists through structured feedback, simulation exercises, and progressive case assignments across surgical specialties.
  6. Material resource management — oversee surgical supply inventories, vendor relationships, and preference-card standardization to control costs while sustaining clinical readiness.
  7. Quality improvement leadership — lead root-cause analyses of adverse events and near-misses, translating findings into sustained process improvements across the perioperative department.
  8. Technology adoption and integration — evaluate and champion new surgical information systems, sterilization tracking platforms, and OR scheduling software for departmental implementation.
  9. Cross-departmental collaboration — serve as the surgical technology liaison to pathology, central sterile processing, and infection control teams to ensure seamless perioperative workflows.
  10. Strategic workforce planning — advise surgical services leadership on staffing models, scope-of-practice considerations, and professional development pathways for the surgical technology workforce.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted instrument identification — uses AI-powered image recognition tools to cross-reference surgical instrument names and functions during preparation, building familiarity with complex instrument sets.
Developing
  1. Pre-operative checklist verification — consults AI-driven checklist systems to confirm sponge, needle, and instrument counts align with procedural requirements, while independently performing the manual count as the authoritative record Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Sterile field protocol lookup — queries AI reference tools for facility-specific or procedure-specific sterile field guidelines, then applies the retrieved protocols under direct human oversight WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Intraoperative monitoring support — integrates AI-generated alerts from surgical suite monitoring systems into real-time situational awareness, filtering signal from noise while retaining independent judgment on patient safety interventions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Surgical team coordination briefing — uses AI scheduling and role-assignment tools to prepare handoff summaries before and after procedures, while personally confirming task assignments with the surgical team WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Procedure-specific setup optimization — directs AI planning tools to generate instrument tray configurations for scheduled procedures, then validates and adjusts the output against surgeon preferences and sterile protocol.
Advanced
  1. Critical-event pattern recognition — evaluates AI-flagged anomalies in intraoperative monitoring data against direct field observation, making the final call on escalation to the surgeon or anesthesiologist Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. AI workflow governance — assesses the reliability limits of AI checklist and monitoring tools in the perioperative environment, advising the surgical team on when to override or disregard AI outputs to preserve patient safety Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Monitoring
Score: 57.9 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication12 statements
Emerging
  1. Surgical team terminology — learns and uses basic OR vocabulary to relay instrument names and supply requests during supervised procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Count communication — verbally confirms sponge, needle, and instrument counts with circulating nurse at designated checkpoints under direct supervision O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Patient preparation communication — relays pre-operative instructions and positioning requirements to patients using clear, calm language before surgery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Intraoperative relay — communicates surgeon instrument requests and supply needs to circulating nurse with increasing speed and accuracy during live procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Specimen labeling communication — verbally confirms tissue specimen identity, source, and handling requirements with surgical nurse before dispatch to laboratory O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Sterile field alerts — communicates potential sterility breaks to the surgical team promptly and using established protocol language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Surgeon anticipation communication — interprets procedural cues and announces upcoming instrument needs to circulating staff without explicit prompting during standard surgical cases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Count discrepancy reporting — articulates count discrepancies clearly to the surgeon and charge nurse, providing specific details to support resolution before wound closure O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-discipline briefing — conveys patient preparation status, sterile field readiness, and equipment availability to anesthesiologists and surgeons at pre-incision time-out Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mentored count communication — coaches new surgical technologists on precise verbal count protocols and documentation communication, reinforcing zero-error standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Complex case coordination communication — leads pre-operative instrument briefings for multi-team specialty procedures, ensuring all members share accurate expectations for equipment sequencing and sterile field management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Adverse event communication — structures clear, factual accounts of intraoperative incidents for incident reports and team debriefs, supporting quality improvement processes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Scrub role ownership — accepts personal responsibility for assigned scrub duties and sterile field maintenance under senior technologist guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Supply preparedness initiative — identifies missing or low supplies on the instrument table and reports them to the circulating nurse before the procedure begins Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Sterile field stewardship — takes proactive ownership of sterile field integrity throughout procedures, independently correcting minor breaks without waiting for direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Junior staff support — demonstrates correct gowning, gloving, and draping techniques to student surgical technologists during supervised learning experiences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Case setup leadership — directs the preparation and organization of the instrument table for complex surgical cases, assigning sub-tasks to support staff and ensuring readiness before patient entry Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Team time-out facilitation — reinforces the surgical time-out process by prompting all team members to confirm patient identity, procedure, and site before incision O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Specimen chain-of-custody oversight — leads proper labeling, documentation, and handoff of multiple tissue specimens during high-volume cases to prevent error O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Departmental protocol leadership — leads development or revision of instrument count and sterile field protocols, gaining buy-in from surgical nursing and surgeon leadership Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Crisis response leadership — guides the surgical team through equipment failures or count discrepancies mid-procedure by calmly coordinating corrective action without disrupting surgical flow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Orientation program leadership — designs and leads structured onboarding experiences for new surgical technologists, setting performance standards and providing structured feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Error self-reflection — identifies personal mistakes in count procedures or sterile technique after cases and seeks clarification from preceptors to correct knowledge gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning strategy awareness — recognizes which surgical specialties or instrument sets require additional study and allocates personal preparation time accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Pre-case mental rehearsal — reviews surgeon preference cards and procedure steps before entering the OR to anticipate instrument sequences and potential complications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance self-monitoring — tracks personal accuracy on instrument counts and sterile field maintenance across cases, identifying patterns in recurring errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cognitive load management — recognizes when task complexity during multi-surgeon or emergency cases exceeds typical cognitive load and activates deliberate verification habits to maintain accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill gap self-assessment — evaluates own proficiency across surgical specialties and requests targeted case assignments or continuing education to address identified weaknesses Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Reflective practice modeling — demonstrates structured post-case self-evaluation to less experienced technologists, normalizing error analysis as a professional development tool Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive learning integration — synthesizes feedback from surgeons, nurses, and self-observation to continuously refine personal scrub technique and instrument anticipation strategies across evolving surgical technologies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Count anomaly recognition — identifies a discrepancy between expected and actual sponge or instrument counts and reports it to the circulating nurse for verification Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sterility breach identification — distinguishes between sterile and non-sterile conditions on the instrument table and flags questionable items before use Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Instrument readiness evaluation — assesses functionality and sterility of specialized instruments before and during cases, removing defective items from the sterile field before they cause harm Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Surgeon preference analysis — evaluates surgeon preference cards alongside procedure requirements to determine when standard setups must be modified for specific patient or case variables O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intraoperative problem solving — analyzes unexpected instrument shortages or equipment malfunctions mid-procedure and identifies the fastest safe resolution without violating sterile technique Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Specimen integrity evaluation — assesses tissue specimen condition, container appropriateness, and labeling completeness before authorizing handoff to circulating nurse for laboratory transport O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Risk anticipation — evaluates surgical case complexity, patient positioning demands, and supply inventory to identify potential intraoperative risks and prepares contingency instrument sets proactively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Protocol gap analysis — evaluates existing count and sterile field procedures against adverse event data and published best practices, recommending evidence-based improvements to department leadership Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Complex case critical review — leads pre-operative review of unusual or high-risk cases, synthesizing surgical plan, patient factors, and available equipment to develop optimal instrument and supply strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Scrub-circulate teamwork — coordinates with the circulating nurse to obtain additional supplies during procedures while maintaining position at the sterile field Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Surgeon assist responsiveness — responds promptly to surgeon and assistant requests for instruments, sutures, and retractors during basic operative cases O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Anesthesia team coordination — collaborates with anesthesiologists on patient positioning, equipment placement, and airway access needs before and during procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-role case support — assists surgical nurses and surgeon assistants simultaneously during complex procedures, managing competing requests without disrupting operative flow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Interdisciplinary time-out participation — actively contributes to and reinforces the surgical time-out as a full team member, ensuring all disciplines confirm critical safety checks O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emergency response collaboration — coordinates with the full surgical team during intraoperative emergencies, maintaining sterile field integrity while supporting rapid supply and instrument access Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Specialty team integration — adapts scrub role behaviors and instrument sequencing practices to align with the preferences and workflows of rotating specialist surgeons across multiple service lines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-functional process improvement — partners with surgical nurses, surgeons, and sterile processing staff to redesign instrument tray configurations, reducing setup time and count errors across the department Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Trauma team surgical support — functions as an integrated member of rapid-response trauma surgical teams, anticipating evolving needs and adjusting sterile field management in real time without disrupting team coordination Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Sterile field honesty — reports personal sterile technique violations immediately and accurately, even when self-reporting may result in corrective feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient dignity commitment — maintains patient privacy and physical coverage during positioning and draping, treating every patient with respect regardless of case urgency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Count accountability — accepts full personal responsibility for count accuracy on assigned cases and does not proceed to closure without resolving discrepancies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct maintenance — upholds calm, respectful demeanor toward all team members in high-pressure operative environments, avoiding interpersonal conflict that disrupts surgical care Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical specimen handling — ensures tissue specimens are handled, labeled, and transferred with complete accuracy and chain-of-custody integrity, refusing to cut procedural corners under time pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Infection control integrity — maintains sterilization and germicide protocols without shortcuts, even when OR turnover pressure is high, protecting patient safety above efficiency demands Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Transparent error reporting — documents and reports intraoperative errors or near-misses accurately in incident reporting systems, supporting a culture of safety and institutional learning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical standards modeling — demonstrates consistent professional integrity across all cases and interactions, serving as a behavioral standard for new surgical technologists and support staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety culture advocacy — champions patient safety and ethical practice standards in departmental meetings and quality improvement forums, influencing policy and peer behavior beyond individual case responsibility Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Setup adaptation — generates alternative instrument table arrangements when standard layouts are impractical due to room configuration or equipment availability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem workaround identification — identifies a substitute instrument or supply when a preferred item is unavailable, verifying the alternative with the surgeon before use Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Custom case preparation — develops tailored instrument and supply configurations for unusual surgical procedures not covered by existing surgeon preference cards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Efficiency innovation — proposes modifications to sterile draping sequences or instrument organization that reduce setup time without compromising sterility standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Improvised sterile field solutions — devises safe, sterile solutions for unexpected intraoperative equipment failures, generating options for the surgeon to evaluate without halting the procedure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Simulation scenario design — creates realistic practice scenarios for instrument identification and count drills that expose new technologists to low-frequency but high-stakes case challenges Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Instrument tray redesign — leads creative redesign of specialty instrument trays based on observed operative inefficiencies, collaborating with surgeons and sterile processing to pilot and evaluate new configurations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Technology integration creativity — identifies and proposes innovative uses of emerging surgical technology or robotic instrument systems into scrub role workflows, developing new sterile field management approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts correction from surgeons and preceptors on sterile technique or instrument handling without defensiveness and applies changes in subsequent cases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. New specialty willingness — volunteers to scrub unfamiliar surgical specialties as a learning opportunity rather than defaulting to comfortable, familiar case types Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill challenge pursuit — requests assignment to increasingly complex surgical cases to accelerate proficiency across specialties and procedural categories Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Error learning integration — analyzes count errors or sterile breaks from previous cases to extract specific corrective actions and applies them systematically going forward Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Continuing education engagement — pursues relevant continuing education in surgical technology advances, instrument sterilization standards, and new procedural techniques to maintain and expand clinical competence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Constructive criticism utilization — actively solicits post-case feedback from surgeons and circulating nurses, using specific observations to refine scrub technique and instrument anticipation skills Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Certification advancement — pursues advanced certifications or specialty credentials in surgical technology as evidence of commitment to professional mastery beyond minimum requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mastery mentoring — shares personal learning strategies and professional development pathways with junior surgical technologists, demonstrating that sustained effort produces expertise in complex surgical environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Institutional learning contribution — presents case-based lessons learned at departmental in-services, converting personal growth experiences into shared knowledge that elevates team performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Sustained attention practice — maintains focused attention on the sterile field and instrument table throughout full surgical cases, resisting distractions in a high-stimulation OR environment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under correction — receives intraoperative correction from surgeons without visible emotional disruption, maintaining task focus and composure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Situational awareness cultivation — monitors simultaneous inputs including surgeon requests, count status, and sterile field integrity without losing track of any single responsibility during procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Pre-case centering — uses deliberate preparation routines before entering the OR to establish focused, calm attentiveness before high-complexity or emergency cases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intraoperative attention management — sustains precise attention to instrument sequencing and sterile field status across multi-hour procedures, maintaining accuracy through fatigue and environmental pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress response regulation — manages physiological and emotional stress responses during trauma or emergency cases, maintaining controlled, deliberate actions that protect patient safety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Intentional handoff awareness — approaches patient-to-OR transfer, positioning, and draping with deliberate, unhurried attention to detail, preventing positioning injuries and exposure incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful crisis navigation — models calm, deliberate decision-making during intraoperative emergencies, stabilizing team focus and preventing panic-driven sterile field or count errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Attention resilience coaching — teaches junior surgical technologists specific attention management strategies for sustaining focus during long or complex cases, reinforcing the connection between mindfulness and patient safety outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical endurance commitment — maintains required standing position and sustained manual dexterity throughout full-length surgical cases without requesting relief inappropriately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty tolerance — performs assigned scrub duties calmly when surgical plans change unexpectedly mid-procedure, adapting without expressing distress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. High-stakes persistence — continues accurate instrument tracking and count management during procedures complicated by intraoperative bleeding, equipment failure, or patient deterioration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Count discrepancy resilience — pursues resolution of count discrepancies methodically and without panic, sustaining procedural discipline even when closure is delayed and team tension is elevated Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Emergency case stamina — performs at full technical capacity during unscheduled emergency surgical cases that extend beyond normal shift hours, maintaining sterile field standards and count accuracy under fatigue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adverse outcome processing — returns to full professional performance following cases with poor patient outcomes, managing emotional impact without allowing grief or distress to compromise subsequent patient care Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Sustained multi-case performance — maintains technical precision and sterile discipline across consecutive surgical cases during high-volume operative days without degradation in count accuracy or field management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Resilience role modeling — demonstrates consistent composure and technical excellence through prolonged high-acuity operative periods, visibly anchoring team morale during demanding circumstances Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic adversity navigation — advocates for safer staffing and rest protocols when persistent schedule demands threaten surgical team performance and patient safety, demonstrating courageous professionalism Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Surgical Technician · Cardiovascular Operating Room Technologist (CVOR Technologist) · Certified Surgical Technician · Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) · Operating Room Surgical Technician (OR St) · Operating Room Surgical Technologist · Operating Room Technician (OR Tech) · Operating Room Technologist (OR Tech) · Scrub Technician · Surgery Technician (Surgery Tech) · Surgical Orderly · Surgical Scrub Technician
RAPIDS apprenticeships
0227 · Surgical Technician
O*NET skills
MonitoringActive ListeningOperations MonitoringCoordinationCritical ThinkingTime ManagementSpeakingReading ComprehensionActive LearningLearning StrategiesSocial PerceptivenessOperation and ControlEquipment MaintenanceJudgment and Decision MakingComplex Problem SolvingManagement of Material ResourcesInstructingService Orientation
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceMedicine and DentistryEnglish LanguageEducation and Training
Abilities
Oral ComprehensionNear VisionProblem SensitivitySpeech RecognitionArm-Hand SteadinessSelective AttentionManual DexterityOral ExpressionInformation OrderingPerceptual Speed
Work styles
Attention to DetailDependabilityCautiousnessCooperationSelf-ControlStress Tolerance
Technology
Data base user interface and query softwareMedical softwareElectronic mail softwareCloud-based data access and sharing softwareGraphics or photo imaging softwareInternet browser softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareOperating system softwareWord processing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Maintain a proper sterile field during surgical procedures.
  2. Count sponges, needles, and instruments before and after operation.
  3. Scrub arms and hands and assist the surgical team to scrub and put on gloves, masks, and surgical clothing.
  4. Provide technical assistance to surgeons, surgical nurses, or anesthesiologists.
  5. Prepare patients for surgery, including positioning patients on the operating table and covering them with sterile surgical drapes to prevent exposure.
  6. Hand instruments and supplies to surgeons and surgeons' assistants, hold retractors and cut sutures, and perform other tasks as directed by surgeon during operation.
  7. Prepare, care for, and dispose of tissue specimens taken for laboratory analysis.
  8. Wash and sterilize equipment, using germicides and sterilizers.
CIP education codes
51.081151.090951.1012

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.