Surgical Technologist in South Dakota
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SD
How to Become a Surgical Technologist in South Dakota
To become a Surgical Technologist in South Dakota, individuals are not required to hold a state license, but national certification is generally expected by employers. The primary steps involve completing an accredited surgical technology program and passing the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam. Applicants should also be prepared for a comprehensive background check. South Dakota participates in interstate licensing compacts, and military personnel and their spouses may have specific pathways for licensure.
Surgical Technologist Requirements in South Dakota
| Detail | South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | South Dakota Board of Medical & Osteopathic 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 |
| Notes | South Dakota does not require a state license for surgical technologists, but national certification (CST) is typically expected by employers. Applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Renewal requires maintaining national certification. |
Source: South Dakota Board of Medical & Osteopathic Examiners
Surgical Technologist Salary in South Dakota
The median surgical technologist salary in South Dakota is $52,400 per year, which is 16.6% below the national median of $62,830.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $36,980 |
| 25th | $47,980 |
| 50th (median) | $52,400 |
| 75th | $61,060 |
| 90th (experienced) | $67,680 |
South Dakota employs approximately 580 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 Dakota Worth It?
Factors to consider: South Dakota's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.