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?

• Be part of a collaborative, team-focused OR environment
• Work closely with skilled surgeons and circulating RNs
• Opportunities for leadership and professional growth
• 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