Surgical Technologist in New Jersey
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NJ
How to Become a Surgical Technologist in New Jersey
To become a Surgical Technologist in New Jersey, individuals must either complete a nationally or regionally accredited educational program for surgical technologists or hold and maintain a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). While New Jersey does not issue a state license, it does have specific requirements for practicing in healthcare facilities. Applicants must pass the NBSTSA CST exam and a comprehensive background check.
Surgical Technologist Requirements in New Jersey
| Detail | New Jersey |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Medical Examiners |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | Completion of a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited surgical technology program. |
| Exam | NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam ($350) |
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 30.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | New Jersey law mandates that all surgical technologists must graduate from an accredited program or hold a certified surgical technologist credential from a recognized organization. Applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. The state does not have a specific minimum age requirement for surgical technologists. |
Source: New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Medical Examiners
Surgical Technologist Salary in New Jersey
The median surgical technologist salary in New Jersey is $71,370 per year, which is 13.6% above the national median of $62,830.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $46,200 |
| 25th | $60,820 |
| 50th (median) | $71,370 |
| 75th | $80,830 |
| 90th (experienced) | $95,860 |
New Jersey employs approximately 2,720 surgical technologists.
Surgical Technologist Job Outlook
AI Impact on Surgical Technologists
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.48/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Surgical Technologist in New Jersey Worth It?
Factors to consider: New Jersey's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.