CST

Essentia Health is seeking a dedicated CST to join our Healthcare & Medical Services team. In this role, you will support surgeons and clinical staff by preparing operating rooms, ensuring proper sterilization of instruments, and assisting during surgical procedures. You’ll collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team to deliver safe, patient-centered care. Essentia Health offers a culture of compassion, innovation, and teamwork, with strong support for professional development, work-life balance, and community involvement. Grow your skills in a collaborative environment that values diversity and holistic care.
Prepare operating rooms and ensure all necessary instruments, equipment, and supplies are available and functional for scheduled procedures
Set up sterile fields and apply strict aseptic technique in accordance with infection prevention standards and facility policies
Assist with patient positioning, skin preparation, and draping under the direction of the surgical team
Anticipate surgeon and procedural needs by selecting and passing instruments, sutures, and supplies throughout the operation
Maintain accurate counts of sponges, needles, and instruments with the circulating nurse to support patient safety and prevent retained items
Handle specimens according to established protocols, ensuring proper labeling, documentation, and timely delivery
Operate and care for specialized surgical equipment and instruments, reporting any malfunctions or safety concerns
Assist with application of dressings, transfer of patients, and turnover of operating rooms between cases, including cleaning and restocking
Document usage of supplies, implants, and equipment accurately in the electronic or paper record as required
Participate in preoperative briefings, postoperative debriefings, and quality improvement activities to enhance patient outcomes and workflow efficiency
Collaborate respectfully with surgeons, anesthesia providers, nurses, and support staff, contributing to a positive, team-based work environment
Engage in ongoing professional development, education, and cross-training in various surgical specialties in alignment with Essentia Health’s standards and initiatives
Surgical instrumentation knowledge across common specialties (e.g., general, orthopedics, OB/GYN, ENT)
Aseptic and sterile technique
Operating room equipment setup and operation
Instrument and sponge/needle counting procedures
Surgical procedure workflow and surgeon preference management
Infection prevention and control practices
Specimen handling and labeling
Patient positioning and safety in the OR
Basic anatomy and physiology related to surgical care
Electronic health record and perioperative documentation basics
Communication and teamwork in a perioperative environment
Attention to detail and situational awareness in high-acuity settings
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
401k
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) – NBSTSA required or obtained within specified timeframe
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
Eligibility to work in a surgical/operative setting under state regulations
Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology or Operating Room Technology program