Surgical Technologist at WVU Medicine: Join Our Team!

Role Overview

As a Surgical Technologist at WVU Medicine, you will play a vital role in providing intraoperative care to patients. You will function as a scrub person, assisting the surgical team during operative procedures. Your primary responsibilities include maintaining a sterile field, preparing and passing instruments, and ensuring the safety and well-being of patients in the operating room. This role requires a high level of attention to detail, technical skill, and the ability to work collaboratively with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

A Day in the Life

Your day as a Surgical Technologist may include:

• Preparing the operating room by setting up sterile instruments and equipment.
• Assisting in the positioning and prepping of patients for surgery.
• Maintaining a sterile field throughout the surgical procedure.
• Anticipating the needs of the surgeon and passing instruments, sutures, and other supplies.
• Performing sponge, instrument, and needle counts with the circulating RN.
• Assisting with wound closure and dressing application.
• Cleaning and sterilizing instruments and equipment after the procedure.
• Restocking supplies and preparing the operating room for the next case.

Why Fairmont and Morgantown, West Virginia?

Fairmont and Morgantown, West Virginia, offer a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, these cities provide stunning natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, or simply exploring the countryside, you'll find plenty to do in your free time. Plus, with a low cost of living and a friendly, welcoming community, Fairmont and Morgantown are great places to live and work.

Morgantown is home to West Virginia University, providing a vibrant college town atmosphere with numerous cultural and entertainment options. Fairmont is a short drive away, offering a quieter, more family-friendly environment. Both cities are within easy driving distance of major metropolitan areas like Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C., making it easy to access even more amenities and attractions.

Career Path

WVU Medicine is committed to the professional growth and development of its employees. As a Surgical Technologist, you may have opportunities to advance your career through:

• Specialization in a particular surgical area, such as orthopedics, cardiac surgery, or neurosurgery.
• Certification in surgical technology (CST).
• Leadership roles, such as surgical team lead or supervisor.
• Continuing education and training programs to enhance your skills and knowledge.

Salary & Benefits

WVU Medicine offers a competitive salary and benefits package to its employees. The estimated salary range for a Surgical Technologist in Fairmont and Morgantown, West Virginia, is $45,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to salary, WVU Medicine provides a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Paid time off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Retirement plan with employer matching or contribution
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement or assistance
• Employee discounts
• Wellness programs

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for its employees. We value teamwork, collaboration, and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care. Our employees are our greatest asset, and we strive to create a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. At WVU Medicine, you'll be part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our patients and the communities we serve.

How to Apply

To apply for the Surgical Technologist position at WVU Medicine, please click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page and complete the application in full. Be sure to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, and to include any certifications or licenses you may hold. We look forward to hearing from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position?

   The minimum qualifications include current licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with two years of scrub experience, OR completion of a Surgical Technology Program with surgical technologist certification, OR completion of a summer surgical tech extern program with surgical technologist certification. You must also obtain certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) within 30 days of hire.

2. Is prior experience required for this role?

   While not required, one year of Surgical Technology experience is strongly preferred. Advanced knowledge in a desired specialty is also preferred.

3. What are the physical requirements of the job?

   The role requires the ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods, lift up to 40 pounds, and push/pull heavy loaded carts up to 200 lbs. You must also possess visual, hearing, and oral acuity, along with manual dexterity and technical ability, and be able to wear lead for extended periods of time.

4. What are the core duties and responsibilities of a Surgical Technologist?

   Core duties include utilizing aseptic technique, assisting the circulating RN in maintaining a sterile field, performing sponge, instrument, and needle counts, assisting with gowning and gloving surgeons, passing sterile instruments, assisting with patient transportation and positioning, preparing supplies and equipment, assisting with sterilization and maintenance of supplies, monitoring inventory, assisting with cleaning duties, performing equipment checks, and assisting with patient charges.

5. What opportunities are there for professional development?

   WVU Medicine offers opportunities for specialization, certification, leadership roles, and continuing education and training programs.

6. What benefits does WVU Medicine offer?

   WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, and wellness programs.

7. What is the work environment like?

   The work environment involves exposure to communicable diseases, blood and body fluids, and hazardous materials. You will be required to wear specialized protective equipment, such as masks, gowns, and gloves, and to adhere to strict safety protocols.

8. What is the call requirement for this position?

   This position requires the ability to respond to calls with a response time of 30 minutes.

9. Is there a mentorship aspect to this role?

   Yes, this role includes serving as a mentor to the team and supporting the development of level one technologists.

10. How does WVU Medicine support its employees?

    WVU Medicine is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment. We value teamwork, collaboration, and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care. Our employees are our greatest asset, and we strive to create a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.