Working in the medical field can be a rewarding and challenging career, especially in a state like Tennessee, where the demand for skilled healthcare professionals is on the rise. One of the key roles in any medical facility is that of a scrub tech, also known as a surgical technologist. In this article, we will explore the average salary of a scrub tech in Tennessee and provide insights into the job requirements, education, and career growth opportunities.
Average Salary of a Scrub Tech in Tennessee
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for a scrub tech in Tennessee is around $43,610. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, employer, level of experience, and education. Here are some average salary ranges for scrub techs in different cities in Tennessee:
- Nashville: $45,110 - $53,490
- Memphis: $42,190 - $51,110
- Knoxville: $40,510 - $49,490
- Chattanooga: $39,610 - $48,490
Job Requirements for Scrub Techs in Tennessee
To become a scrub tech in Tennessee, you typically need to have:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a surgical technologist program approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or Certified Operating Room Technician (CORT)
- Basic life support (BLS) certification
- Ability to lift 50 pounds or more
- Good communication and teamwork skills
Education and Training for Scrub Techs in Tennessee
To become a scrub tech in Tennessee, you can enroll in a surgical technologist program approved by CAAHEP. These programs are usually offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or universities and take around 12-18 months to complete. Some popular schools for scrub tech programs in Tennessee include:
- Concorde Career Colleges
- Lincoln Tech
- Universal Technical Institute
- Tennessee State University
Career Growth Opportunities for Scrub Techs in Tennessee
The demand for scrub techs in Tennessee is expected to grow 12% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the national average. This growth is driven by an aging population, an increase in surgical procedures, and a shortage of skilled healthcare professionals. With experience and additional education, scrub techs can move into leadership roles or specialize in a particular area, such as:
- Surgical first assistant
- Surgical coordinator
- Sterile processing technician
- Educator or instructor
Conclusion and Next Steps
Working as a scrub tech in Tennessee can be a rewarding and challenging career, with opportunities for growth and advancement. By understanding the average salary, job requirements, education, and training needed, you can make informed decisions about your career path. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a scrub tech in Tennessee, research schools and programs, and reach out to professionals in the field for guidance and advice.
Gallery of Tennessee Scrub Tech Salary and Career
FAQ Section
What is the average salary for a scrub tech in Tennessee?
+The average annual salary for a scrub tech in Tennessee is around $43,610.
What are the job requirements for scrub techs in Tennessee?
+To become a scrub tech in Tennessee, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a surgical technologist program approved by CAAHEP, certification as a CST or CORT, and basic life support certification.
What are the career growth opportunities for scrub techs in Tennessee?
+The demand for scrub techs in Tennessee is expected to grow 12% from 2020 to 2030. With experience and additional education, scrub techs can move into leadership roles or specialize in a particular area.