If you're considering a career as a surgical technologist in Arkansas, one of the most important factors to consider is the potential salary. As with any profession, salaries can vary depending on location, experience, and other factors. In this article, we'll explore the average surgical tech salary in Arkansas, as well as the factors that can influence earnings.
Arkansas Surgical Tech Salary Overview
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for surgical technologists in Arkansas was $45,610 in May 2020. This is slightly lower than the national median salary of $48,330. However, it's essential to note that salaries can vary depending on the specific location within the state.
Salary Ranges in Arkansas Cities
Here are some average salary ranges for surgical technologists in different cities in Arkansas:
- Little Rock: $43,610 - $55,110 per year
- Fort Smith: $42,310 - $53,810 per year
- Fayetteville: $44,610 - $56,110 per year
- Springdale: $43,110 - $54,610 per year
- Jonesboro: $41,310 - $52,810 per year
Factors Affecting Surgical Tech Salary in Arkansas
Several factors can influence a surgical technologist's salary in Arkansas. Here are some of the most significant factors to consider:
Experience
As with any profession, experience plays a crucial role in determining salary. More experienced surgical technologists can expect higher salaries. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for surgical technologists with less than 2 years of experience was $42,610 in May 2020, while those with 2-4 years of experience earned a median salary of $45,610.
Education and Certification
Having a degree from an accredited surgical technology program and obtaining certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) can also impact salary. Certified surgical technologists tend to earn higher salaries than non-certified professionals.
Location
As mentioned earlier, location can significantly affect salary. Surgical technologists working in urban areas tend to earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas.
Employer Type
The type of employer can also influence salary. Surgical technologists working in hospitals tend to earn higher salaries than those working in outpatient care centers or private practices.
Job Outlook for Surgical Technologists in Arkansas
The job outlook for surgical technologists in Arkansas is positive. According to the BLS, employment of surgical technologists in the state is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the national average.
Industry Trends
Several industry trends are driving the demand for surgical technologists in Arkansas:
- An aging population: As the population ages, there will be an increased demand for surgical services, including joint replacements, cataract surgery, and other procedures.
- Advances in medical technology: Advances in medical technology will require skilled surgical technologists to operate and maintain equipment.
- Increased focus on patient safety: The need for trained surgical technologists to ensure patient safety during surgical procedures will continue to drive demand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the average surgical tech salary in Arkansas is around $45,610 per year, although salaries can vary depending on location, experience, education, and other factors. The job outlook for surgical technologists in the state is positive, with employment projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the surgical tech salary in Arkansas. If you're considering a career as a surgical technologist, we encourage you to explore the many opportunities available in the state.
What is the average salary for surgical technologists in Arkansas?
+The average salary for surgical technologists in Arkansas is around $45,610 per year.
What factors can affect a surgical technologist's salary in Arkansas?
+Several factors can affect a surgical technologist's salary in Arkansas, including experience, education, certification, location, and employer type.
What is the job outlook for surgical technologists in Arkansas?
+The job outlook for surgical technologists in Arkansas is positive, with employment projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030.