Surgical Technologist in South Carolina
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SC
How to Become a Surgical Technologist in South Carolina
To become a surgical technologist in South Carolina, individuals must successfully complete a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited surgical technology program and obtain the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). While there is no state-issued license, South Carolina law mandates this certification for practice. The certification must be renewed every two years with 30 hours of continuing education.
Surgical Technologist Requirements in South Carolina
| Detail | South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | South Carolina Board of Medical Examiners (oversees compliance, but does not issue licenses) |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | Completion of a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited surgical technology program. |
| Exam | NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam ($340) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 30.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | South Carolina law requires surgical technologists to hold a current certification from the NBSTSA to practice. There is no state-issued license or registration; employers are responsible for verification. Graduates may practice for up to three months after program completion before obtaining certification. Military training pathway available. A criminal background check is required for certification. |
Source: South Carolina Board of Medical Examiners (oversees compliance, but does not issue licenses)
Surgical Technologist Salary in South Carolina
The median surgical technologist salary in South Carolina is $60,780 per year, which is 3.3% below the national median of $62,830.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $35,270 |
| 25th | $50,110 |
| 50th (median) | $60,780 |
| 75th | $64,790 |
| 90th (experienced) | $72,640 |
South Carolina employs approximately 2,480 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 South Carolina Worth It?
Factors to consider: South Carolina's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.