CST median $60,610 vs ATT median ~$48,610 | BLS May 2024
Surgical Tech vs Anesthesia Tech Salary 2026
Surgical technologists earn approximately $12,000 more at the median than anesthesia technologists, with a clearer career ladder via CSFA, specialty, and lead-tech roles. Both work in the OR ecosystem, but the scopes and pay ceilings are meaningfully different.
Side-by-side
| Attribute | Surgical tech (CST) | Anesthesia tech (ATT) |
|---|---|---|
| BLS SOC code | 29-2055 | 31-9099 (with sub) |
| Median annual | $60,610 | $48,610 |
| Median hourly | $29.14 | $23.37 |
| Training pathway | 12-24 month CST program | OJT or 12-mo certificate |
| Credential | CST (required by most employers) | CerATT (voluntary) |
| Scope | Sterile field, instrument pass, anticipation | Equipment prep, machine support, airway cart |
| Advancement | CSFA, specialty, charge, lead | Lead ATT, anesthesia services coordinator |
| Senior ceiling (90th) | $89,740 | ~$68,000 |
Anesthesia technologist not separately broken out by BLS in OEWS; estimates based on SOC 31-9099 (healthcare support workers, all other) anesthesia subcategory.
Why CSTs typically out-earn ATTs
- Credential rigor. CST through NBSTSA is a standardized national exam required by most US hospital employers. CerATT (through ASATT) is voluntary; many employers train anesthesia techs on the job without formal credentialing.
- Scope responsibility. The CST is one of the named members of the surgical team for billing and quality reporting. The ATT is an equipment-support role.
- Specialty advancement. CSTs can credential into CSFA, CVOR, transplant, and robotics. ATTs have fewer formal specialty paths.
- Lead/management trajectory. Lead CST and surgical services coordinator paths are well-established. Lead ATT roles exist but in smaller departments and at lower pay grades.
Sources
- BLS OEWS May 2024, SOC 29-2055: bls.gov/oes/current/oes292055.htm
- BLS OEWS May 2024, SOC 31-9099 healthcare support workers (anesthesia tech subcategory): bls.gov/oes/current/oes319099.htm
- ASATT (American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians) CerATT information: asatt.org