What is the Surgical Technologist Apprenticeship Program?

This nine-month, full-time paid training program prepares individuals who have little to no medical background to deliver safe, patient-centered care as a surgical technologist in the operating room. Training consists of classroom instruction, skills labs and clinical experiences with a variety of preceptors (trainers) at one of our hospital facilities.

Nine months of paid training will consist of:

• Three months of classroom instruction, simulation lab training and clinical hours as a surgical technologist apprentice
• Six months of hands-on, clinical experience as a surgical technologist in orientation

Where will the classes be held?

Classes and skills labs will be held at Norton Healthcare Pavilion in downtown Louisville. Some travel between hospital locations may be required.

What hours do I work during the program?

This is a full-time, 40-hour per week program. The hours will vary, between 6 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. during the nine-month program.

What happens after I complete the program?

When you successfully complete the program, you will remain employed with Norton Healthcare as a full-time surgical technologist. You will continue the on-the-job training portion of the course with a variety of preceptors. When you have completed that training, you will transition to your role as a full-time surgical technologist at the facility into which you were initially hired.

What do I need to wear or purchase while in the program?

You must follow Norton Healthcare’s appearance and attire policy when in class, including universal source control (masking) requirements. If you have scrubs from a previous position, you may wear them to class. All learning materials will be provided, and you will not need to purchase any other items for the program. In the operating room, you will be provided with surgical scrubs at your home facility.

Will I need to pass exams and skills checkoffs to complete the program? 

You must achieve an average of at least 80% on all knowledge assessments and exams. You must satisfactorily pass clinical skills competency checkoffs during the program.

Am I eligible for certification after successfully completing the program?

Surgical technologists are not required to be certified in Kentucky or at Norton Healthcare. This program is a paid training program and does not meet the criteria needed to obtain certification in surgical technology. Opportunities are available to connect with local educational institutions to become certified following successful completion of the Surgical Technologist Apprenticeship Program. Those opportunities have their own entry requirements and qualifications.

How do I apply?

To be considered for a surgical technologist apprentice role, you will need to apply to the job posting on NortonHealthcareCareers.com. A recruiter will reach out to you to discuss next steps.

How can I get more information about the program?

You can email recruitment@nortonhealthcare.org. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.