What Is an Anesthesia Technician?
An anesthesia technician (also called an anesthesia technologist or anesthesia tech) assists doctors and nurses in delivering anesthesia during surgery. They set up equipment, prepare medicines, and help clean up. They work in places like operating rooms, intensive care units, and emergency departments.
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Average Pay in the United States
A. Hourly Wage
- On ZipRecruiter (August 2025), the average pay is about $54.78 per hour, which equals approximately $113,937 per year.
- A different source (Indeed) reports an average of $29.72 per hour.
B. Annual Salary (Glassdoor)
- Glassdoor shows an average of $56,402 per year, or $27 per hour.
- For “Anesthesia Tech” specifically, Glassdoor lists about $54,922 per year, or $26 per hour.
C. PayScale
- Payscale (June 2025) gives an average of $20.43 per hour, with total pay ranging from about $33,000 to $65,000 per year.
D. Vivian
- A much lower figure: $24.67 per hour.
Why Do Numbers Vary So Much?
Different sources and methods cause wide differences. ZipRecruiter tends to reflect active job postings and may show high-end pay. Glassdoor focuses on employee submissions. PayScale and Vivian use self-reported data and surveys. Location, job title differences (tech vs. technologist), experience level, and employer type all affect pay. In short: context matters.
Example Ranges
Source Wage (Hourly) Salary (Yearly) ZipRecruiter: $54.78/hr, $113,937/yr Indeed, $29.72/hr– Glassdoor $27–$26/hr $55K–$56K/yr PayScale $20.43/hr, $33K–$65K/yr Vivian $24.67/hr–
Regional Highlights
- In California, Indeed shows about $37.61 per hour, roughly 27% above the national average.
- Tallo reports salaries in California around $62,000 per year, with entry-level at $50,000 and experienced techs earning over $75,000.
Summary in Simple Words
If you work as an anesthesia technician in the U.S., your pay can range a lot:
- Low end: $20 per hour or about $40,000 per year
- Mid-range: around $27–$30 per hour or $55,000–$60,000 per year
- High end: $55 per hour or over $110,000 per year, especially in top-paying cities or for experienced roles
California tends to pay more than many other states. Your pay also depends on where you work (city or state), how many years you’ve done this job, and whether you have extra training or certifications.
Conclusion
Working as an anesthesia technician can pay well, especially if you’re in a high-demand area, have experience, or hold certifications. Though pay varies—from $20/hour to $55+/hour—the job offers job stability and rewarding work in healthcare. In states like California, the average is stronger than most.
FAQs
Why are there so many different salary numbers?
Because different data sources use different methods—some use employer job ads, others use surveys or employee reports. Also, pay varies based on location, experience, certifications, and job title (tech vs. technologist).
Does experience help you earn more?
Yes. In California, entry-level techs might start at $50,000/year, while those with more experience and certification can earn over $75,000/year.
Which states or cities pay the most?
ZipRecruiter shows very high average salaries (over $140K/year) in places like the San Francisco Bay Area, East Bay (CA), and Lake Marcel-Stillwater (WA). However, make sure to compare with the cost of living, which can be higher in those areas. In general, California tends to pay above average.
Is the job market good for anesthesia techs?
Yes. Given the growing need for healthcare workers, there are many job opportunities. Hospitals and surgical centers need trained staff for anesthesia and operating rooms.
Can certifications raise your pay?
Likely. With certifications like Cer.A.T.T. (Certified Anesthesia Technologist), techs may be able to earn more and gain better job opportunities.
What’s the highest pay reported?
ZipRecruiter lists up to $192/hour (which means over $400,000/year)—these are rare outliers. More typical top-end is in the range of $75,000–$110,000/year, depending on location and experience.