Anesthesia Tech

Anesthesia technicians are critical players in healthcare and patient wellbeing, offering essential support to anesthesiologists to make sure procedures run smoothly. With the rise in demand for skilled health workers, becoming an anesthesia tech is definitely a top-tier career choice.

How Much Do Anesthesia Techs Make?

An anesthesia tech salary varies on many factors like experience, location, and work setting. On average, anesthesia techs in the United States earn between $40,000 and $60,000 per year according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. However, with extra certifications and experience, anesthesia techs in certain locations or specialized healthcare settings can earn even more.

What Does an Anesthesia Tech Do?

Anesthesia tech job duties involve preparing and maintaining anesthesia equipment. These responsibilities typically include setting up anesthesia equipment and ensuring it is functioning correctly, cleaning and sterilizing equipment to maintain a safe, sterile environment, assisting anesthesiologists during procedures, performing routine checks on machines, and alerting medical staff to any issues that arise.

Is Being an Anesthesia Tech a Good Career?

While anesthesia techs might not always work with patients directly, being an anesthesia tech can be a rewarding career. With growing demand in the healthcare industry and the potential for advancement, many find it to be a fulfilling profession. Not to mention, there’s job stability and high demand, especially in hospital settings, as well as opportunities for professional growth and specialization.

How to Succeed as an Anesthesia Tech

To succeed as an anesthesia tech, one must have excellent communication skills, the ability to work well under pressure, stay organized and proactive about equipment maintenance, and be willing to continuously learn about new anesthesia techniques and technologies. Professionalism and a commitment to patient care are also essential traits that help anesthesia techs excel.

Where Do Anesthesia Techs Work?

Anesthesia techs are commonly employed in hospitals, but they can also work in various healthcare settings like outpatient surgery centers, specialty clinics, and dental offices. Most work in operating rooms or surgical centers, though they may also assist with anesthesia in intensive care units, labor and delivery, and emergency departments.

How to Become an Anesthesia Tech

Becoming an anesthesia tech involves a combination of education, certification, and hands-on training.

Education

Most anesthesia techs complete a formal education program, such as a certificate or associate degree, which includes courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and anesthesia equipment.

Certifications

While certification requirements vary by state, the Certified Anesthesia Technologist (Cer.A.T.T.) credential from the American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT) is widely recognized and can increase job prospects.

Where Are Anesthesia Techs Needed Most?

Anesthesia techs are in high demand nationwide, especially in urban hospitals, academic medical centers, and regions experiencing healthcare workforce shortages. Large hospital systems, particularly in states with high surgical volumes, such as California, Texas, and Florida, are among the largest employers.

View all allied specialties

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your questions about anesthesia tech jobs with Medical Solutions.

Simply apply here. You can also call us at 1.866.633.3548 and speak with a recruiter, who can answer your questions and send you an information packet. All we need to begin is your application and resume. Once we receive your information, we can begin discussing potential assignments that fit your profile. When you find a job you want, your recruiter will submit you for the job and walk you through the process from there.
Most assignments are 13 weeks in length, but we’ve seen them as short as four weeks and as long as 24. You are obligated to finish your assignment as contracted, but there is no contract binding you to work more assignments afterward. You can take a new assignment right after your last or take a break. It’s all up to you!
Your total compensation package — including your hourly pay, benefits, bonuses, reimbursements, etc. — is completely customized to fit your needs. Pay rates vary from assignment to assignment depending on location, the hospital, your specialty, and other factors.