Surgical Technologist in North Dakota
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for ND
How to Become a Surgical Technologist in North Dakota
To become a Surgical Technologist in North Dakota, individuals must register with the North Dakota Board of Nursing as an Unlicensed Assistive Personnel (UAP). This typically involves completing a surgical technology program accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES. While national certification, such as the NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, is not a state mandate, many employers prefer or require it. The registration requires an application fee of $50 and renewal every two years with 24 continuing education hours.
Surgical Technologist Requirements in North Dakota
| Detail | North Dakota |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | North Dakota Board of Nursing |
| 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 | $50 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | North Dakota requires registration with the Board of Nursing as an Unlicensed Assistive Personnel (UAP). Applicants must be at least 18 years old and complete a background check. While national certification (CST) is not explicitly mandated by the state, it is often preferred or required by employers. Renewal requires maintaining national certification or completing 24 continuing education hours per cycle. |
Source: North Dakota Board of Nursing
Surgical Technologist Salary in North Dakota
The median surgical technologist salary in North Dakota is $59,990 per year, which is 4.5% below the national median of $62,830.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $48,110 |
| 25th | $50,620 |
| 50th (median) | $59,990 |
| 75th | $62,340 |
| 90th (experienced) | $66,220 |
North Dakota employs approximately 270 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 North Dakota Worth It?
Factors to consider: North Dakota's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.