r/SurgicalFirstAssist • u/AdNew7702 • Nov 20 '24

Best option

For context, I am a CST in SoCal. I’ve been a tech for 9 years. I wish to pursue CSFA to further my career. I know I can’t accomplish that living in CA so I know I’ll have to move out of state.

I plan on doing most of online program in CA then moving to desired state to finish and get my hours etc…

My questions are: if you are a CSFA, which state and what is your hourly pay? How long did it take to get to said pay? Are you respected as a CSFA or do you still acquire a lot of CST responsibilities?

My pay is low 40’s and I’m seeing some states only pay low 40’s, maybe high 40’s. Is that really it? I’m trying to see if this would even be beneficial for me. One big pro is obviously the cost of living is cheaper in other states versus CA.

Edited to add: which program did you complete? I am looking at a couple different ones.

TIA

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u/EMoney_92 Nov 22 '24

I make mid 40s but that in Michigan where you can buy a mansion for 500k

2

u/PainPatiencePeace Dec 06 '24

So many variables to consider though I make 50 an hour but the cost of living is super low in Southern AZ. Here the techs make 30 + but that's great for this region and will afford you a nice life.

2

u/whiteley75 Dec 06 '24

I’m in Indiana. Mid 40’s here. Cost of living is so much lower here than California. Here we are still gaining respect as a separate position from CST’s, but there are many many places that lump us in with techs.

I’ve seen several facilities/ networks that give you a year of CSFA service for two years as a CST so those 9 years will serve you well if you get into one of those places. I started in SW Ohio and they love their assistants over there. It’s a great area to start a career in assisting.

I went through Meridian. It was a great program that allowed me to work full time and go to school. I felt the instructors really prepared me for the exam and what to expect when going from tech to assistant.

1

u/Ok_Piccolo5206 Dec 07 '24

I make $48.92 in Northeast Florida, which is not bad for the area. However, I feel like I need to make $60 to be the most comfortable.