Travel Surgical Technologist
Peoria, IL
Med Ninjas
5x8 hrs, Days

Job Title: Surgical Technologist II – Open Heart
Specialty: Cardiothoracic / Open Heart Surgery
Position Type: Travel Contract

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled Surgical Technologist II specializing in Open Heart Surgery to support surgeons and the operating room team during complex surgical and invasive procedures. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong sterile technique, excellent knowledge of surgical instruments, and the ability to anticipate surgical needs while maintaining patient safety and an efficient operative environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Surgical Preparation and Sterile Technique

• Prepare and maintain the sterile field before surgical procedures.

• Ensure instruments, equipment, sutures, and supplies are complete, functional, and readily available.

• Organize the back table and Mayo stand efficiently.

• Prepare appropriate equipment and supplies for planned and unexpected surgical needs.

• Follow infection prevention and sterile technique protocols.

2. Intraoperative Surgical Support

• Scrub for routine and complex surgical procedures across various specialties.

• Assist surgeons by anticipating procedural steps, techniques, and instrument requirements.

• Demonstrate proficiency in first scrub, second scrub, first assisting, and second circulating duties as assigned and permitted by role and facility policy.

• Operate the Mayo stand independently and adapt to surgeon preferences.

• Respond promptly to changes in surgical procedures and unexpected intraoperative events.

• Remain calm and focused during emergencies, including uncontrolled bleeding and changes from laparoscopic to open procedures.

3. Instrument and Equipment Management

• Ensure the availability of appropriate surgical instruments and supplies.

• Anticipate the need for additional equipment and prevent unnecessary interruptions.

• Perform surgical counts in collaboration with the circulating RN.

• Support proper sequencing of surgical instruments and supplies.

• Use resources efficiently and avoid unnecessary opening of sterile supplies.

4. Patient Safety and Communication

• Protect patient privacy and dignity throughout the surgical process.

• Observe patient safety practices during induction and surgical procedures.

• Communicate clearly with surgeons, circulating nurses, and other OR team members.

• Identify changing procedural needs and communicate urgent concerns promptly.

• Follow established policies for surgical counts, sterile technique, and intraoperative safety.

5. Teamwork and Unit Operations

• Assist with surgical closure, dressing application, patient transfer, and room turnover as assigned.

• Participate in required on-call coverage.

• Remain flexible with assignments across designated operating room areas.

• Support colleagues and contribute to efficient unit operations.

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and maintain a positive, collaborative work environment.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in a related field or certificate of completion in Surgical Technology.

• Current BLS certification from the American Heart Association (AHA).

• Strong knowledge of surgical instruments, sterile technique, and operating room procedures.

• Ability to anticipate surgical needs and respond effectively to emergencies.

• Excellent communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.

Preferred Experience

Experience in cardiothoracic and open heart surgery is highly relevant to this position. Confirm the facility's minimum experience requirements and specific open heart competencies before submission.

Certifications Checklist

• BLS – AHA: Required

• Surgical Technology Associate Degree or Certificate: Required