Join St. Francis–Emory Healthcare, a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St. Francis also delivers advanced heart, orthopedic, and women’s care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.

Job Summary

The Certified Surgical Technician (CST) works under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse to assist in surgical operations. The CST is responsible for ensuring the surgical suite is prepared, maintaining a sterile environment, passing instruments to surgeons during procedures, and assisting in room turnover. The CST plays a vital role in patient safety, infection control, and operational efficiency in the surgical setting.

Essential Functions

Prepare the operating room with sterile instruments, equipment, supplies, and solutions required for surgical procedures
Maintain aseptic technique and sterile field throughout the procedure
Pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon and surgical team during procedures
Accurately track sponges, needles, and instruments before, during, and after surgical procedures to ensure nothing is retained
Assist with room turnover before and after procedures, including waste disposal and equipment reprocessing
Operate and monitor sterilization equipment in accordance with AAMI, AORN, TJC, and OSHA standards
Assist in processing specimens for laboratory analysis
Ensure proper documentation of instrument counts, procedures, and sterilization indicators
Comply with infection control, personal protective equipment, and safety protocols
Support performance improvement and risk management initiatives
Maintain readiness and functionality of surgical instruments and equipment

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

Must read, write, and communicate effectively in English
Demonstrated knowledge of surgical procedures, instrumentation, and sterile techniques
Strong attention to detail and ability to work accurately under pressure
Effective interpersonal and team collaboration skills
Must demonstrate regular and reliable attendance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent required
Successful completion of a program in surgical technology accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) required

Licenses/Certifications

Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential required within time frame required by facility policy
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required
De-escalation training required within time frame required by facility policy

Experience

12 to 18 months of acute care operating room experience preferred

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