What are the criterias to be hired as a Surgical Tech in most major hospitals?

I graduated from a Surgical Tech (vocational) school about 3 months ago and got my Diploma.. Since then, I've been applying for jobs left and right.. Career Services at the school has been trying their best to help me as well, but the best that they can do is e-mail me new leads.. From there, I apply.. I've applied to almost every opening for Surgical Techs and even Sterile Processing.. Most are done online, where I can attach a resume and cover letter.. I even mail hard copies for each job.. I follow up and I'm always forwarded to answering machines, so I leave messages.. Am I doing something wrong? I know that hospitals prefer to hire CERTIFIED techs, but in order to be certified, I would have to complete 130 cases (something like that).. I can't complete my 130 cases if I don't have a job. In externship, the most I've done was 50 cases.. Not that much.. So can anyone tell me if I'm doing something wrong? Or what are the criterias to be hired as a ST or Sterile Processing Tech?

It might sound crazy...but why not try the Temp. Agencies...it may only be a few days or a week here and there, but when you finally get to the quantity required for your certification...you should be home free... You will want to keep accurate records of where you worked, what you did, cases you've handled, etc. in case you need to 'prove' the work you've completed. If that doesn't work, you might try talking to any doctors you know who might be able to put a good word in for you. You'll get there...it just takes a little time...and, may even be part of the "test" to see how focused and disciplined you are...

Thank you. You're very kind. Report It