Working as a surgical technologist can be a rewarding and challenging career, with opportunities to make a difference in people's lives. New Orleans, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is an attractive place to pursue a career in surgical technology. If you're considering a career as a surgical tech in New Orleans, one of the most important factors to consider is the salary.
Average Surgical Tech Salary in New Orleans
The average salary for a surgical technologist in New Orleans can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and employer. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for surgical technologists in the New Orleans-Metairie, LA Metropolitan Division was $44,490 in May 2020. However, salaries can range from around $35,000 to over $60,000 per year, depending on the specific employer and the individual's level of experience.

Salary by Employer Type
Surgical technologists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and physician offices. Salaries can vary depending on the type of employer, with hospitals typically offering higher salaries than outpatient surgical centers or physician offices.
Here are some average salary ranges for surgical technologists in New Orleans, by employer type:
- Hospitals: $45,000 - $65,000 per year
- Outpatient surgical centers: $40,000 - $60,000 per year
- Physician offices: $35,000 - $55,000 per year
Salary by Level of Experience
As with most careers, salaries for surgical technologists in New Orleans can vary depending on the individual's level of experience. More experienced surgical technologists can earn higher salaries, with some experienced techs earning over $70,000 per year.
Here are some average salary ranges for surgical technologists in New Orleans, by level of experience:
- Entry-level (0-2 years of experience): $35,000 - $50,000 per year
- Mid-level (2-5 years of experience): $45,000 - $65,000 per year
- Experienced (5-10 years of experience): $55,000 - $75,000 per year
- Senior-level (10+ years of experience): $65,000 - $85,000 per year

Education and Certification
While not always required, having a postsecondary certificate or associate's degree in surgical technology can be beneficial for career advancement and higher salaries. Additionally, becoming certified as a surgical technologist (CST) can also lead to higher salaries and greater job opportunities.
Here are some average salary ranges for surgical technologists in New Orleans, by education level:
- Postsecondary certificate: $40,000 - $60,000 per year
- Associate's degree: $45,000 - $70,000 per year
- Bachelor's degree: $50,000 - $80,000 per year
Job Outlook and Growth Opportunities
The job outlook for surgical technologists in New Orleans is positive, with the BLS predicting a 3% growth in employment opportunities for surgical technologists nationwide from 2020 to 2030. This growth is driven by an increasing demand for healthcare services, particularly in the surgical sector.
In addition to job growth, there are also opportunities for career advancement and professional development in the field of surgical technology. Experienced surgical technologists can move into leadership roles or pursue specialized certifications, such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) credential.

Conclusion
Working as a surgical technologist in New Orleans can be a rewarding and challenging career, with opportunities for career advancement and professional growth. While salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and employer, the average salary for a surgical technologist in New Orleans is around $44,490 per year. By pursuing education and certification, and gaining experience in the field, surgical technologists can increase their earning potential and achieve a successful and fulfilling career.






What is the average salary for a surgical technologist in New Orleans?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist in New Orleans is around $44,490 per year.
What factors affect the salary of a surgical technologist in New Orleans?
+Salaries for surgical technologists in New Orleans can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and employer.
What is the job outlook for surgical technologists in New Orleans?
+The job outlook for surgical technologists in New Orleans is positive, with a predicted 3% growth in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030.