The average salary for a surgical tech in Mississippi is approximately $46,000 per year. Entry-level surgical techs earn around $37,000 annually, while experienced professionals can make over $55,000. Salary varies based on certification, location, and healthcare facility type.
Average Surgical Tech Salary in Mississippi
Surgical techs in Mississippi earn an average salary of $46,000 per year, which is lower than the national average of $55,960 (BLS 2024). This equals about $22 per hour, though exact rates vary based on job type and employer. Data from Salary.com shows certified surgical technologists earn around $49,187 annually, or $23.65 per hour.
Salary Comparison Table
| Source | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salary.com | $49,187 | ~$23.65 | $44,207 – $54,119 | Certified Surgical Technologist (as of Sep 2024) |
| ZipRecruiter | $92,699 | $44.57 | N/A | Likely includes travel/contract positions |
| Talent.com | $81,661 | $39.26 | $63,733 (entry) – N/A | May include travel/agency roles |
| Indeed (statewide) | $1,663 per week | ~$41.58 | N/A | Based on reported jobs in MS |
| Indeed (Mississippi State) | $1,459 per week | ~$36.47 | N/A | Specific to Mississippi State, MS |
Salaries by Mississippi City
Jackson, Gulfport, Warren and Hattiesburg offer some of the highest surgical tech salaries in Mississippi. Jackson surgical techs often earn over $50,000 due to larger hospital systems like the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Gulfport and Biloxi also report higher pay, especially in trauma or specialty surgical units.
Salary by Experience and Certification
Entry-level surgical technologists in Mississippi earn around $37,000 annually, or $17–$18 per hour. Surgical techs with over five years of experience or a CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) credential often exceed $55,000 per year. Facilities typically offer higher wages for those trained in high-demand areas like orthopedic or cardiovascular surgery.
Pay Differences by Facility Type
Hospitals in Mississippi generally offer the highest pay for surgical techs, especially those with trauma or teaching programs. Outpatient centers and surgical clinics may pay slightly less but can provide more predictable schedules. VA hospitals and specialty facilities may include additional government-based benefits or bonuses.
Benefits Beyond Salary
In addition to base pay, many Mississippi employers offer:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off (PTO)
- Retirement plans
- Shift differentials for night/weekend work
- Sign-on bonuses for high-demand locations
These perks can add thousands of dollars to a surgical tech’s total annual compensation.
Career Outlook and Job Growth
Mississippi shows steady demand for surgical technologists, especially as older workers retire and surgical procedures increase. The BLS expects job growth of 5% nationally through 2030, and active jobs in the state consistently appear on hospital and staffing agency listings.
Popular Questions
Below are questions we get asked regularly.
How does working as a travel surgical tech in Mississippi impact salary compared to permanent staff roles?
Travel surgical techs in Mississippi often earn $80,000–$90,000 per year, nearly double permanent staff wages. These jobs pay more due to stipends, higher hourly rates, and contract bonuses.
Are there specific Mississippi hospitals or regions known for paying surgical techs more?
Yes. Jackson hospitals and the University of Mississippi Medical Center pay above average. Rural hospitals may offer sign-on bonuses or relocation assistance to attract techs.
What unique certifications or skills can increase a surgical tech’s salary in Mississippi?
Holding a CST certification, gaining experience with robotic surgery, or working in orthopedics or cardiovascular teams can significantly increase pay. Bilingual techs and those with leadership duties may also earn more.
How does the cost of living in Mississippi affect the real value of a surgical tech’s salary?
Mississippi has one of the lowest cost-of-living rates in the U.S. As a result, even a $46,000 salary can offer greater purchasing power than similar jobs in other states.
Final Points
Surgical technicians in Mississippi can expect solid earnings, especially with experience or certification. While average pay falls below the national average, lower living costs and extra job benefits make this role financially rewarding within the state.
