Surgical Technologist in Tennessee
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TN
How to Become a Surgical Technologist in Tennessee
To become a Surgical Technologist in Tennessee, individuals must meet specific employment qualifications set by the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission, though a state license is not issued. Key steps involve completing a nationally accredited surgical technology program and obtaining national certification, such as the NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or TS-C (NCCT) credential. While there isn't a state license, employers are responsible for verifying that surgical technologists meet the state's requirements, which also include annual continuing education.
Surgical Technologist Requirements in Tennessee
| Detail | Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Tennessee Health Facilities Commission |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | Completion of a nationally accredited surgical technology program (CAAHEP or ABHES) or a military surgical technology program. |
| Exam | NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam or TS-C (NCCT) ($350) |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Continuing Education | 15.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Tennessee law (TCA 68-57-101) requires surgical technologists to meet one of several qualifications for employment, but does not issue a state license. Qualifications include holding current national certification (CST or TS-C), completing an accredited program and obtaining certification within 18 months of hire, performing surgical technology services before May 21, 2007, or completing a military surgical technology program. Employers must verify qualifications. Minimum age of 18 is typically required for program enrollment. Background checks and drug screenings are also common for program admission. Current certification satisfies the annual 15 hours of continuing education. |
Surgical Technologist Salary in Tennessee
The median surgical technologist salary in Tennessee is $56,370 per year, which is 10.3% below the national median of $62,830.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $47,060 |
| 25th | $50,090 |
| 50th (median) | $56,370 |
| 75th | $62,850 |
| 90th (experienced) | $73,110 |
Tennessee employs approximately 2,470 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 Tennessee Worth It?
Factors to consider: Tennessee's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.