Overview

Position TitleProgram Director, Surgical Technology & Surgical First Assistant Programs (Chattanooga, TN or Atlanta, GA)DescriptionAt Chattanooga College, team members help implement our strategy of "Where a small school can make a BIG difference!"The Program Director, Surgical Technology & Surgical First Assistant Programs provides academic leadership, program development, and instructional oversight to support student success, workforce readiness, and programmatic accreditation. This role is responsible for leading the development and implementation of Surgical Technology and Surgical First Assistant programs, ensuring alignment with CAAHEP and ARC/STSA standards, industry best practices, and institutional goals.Responsibilities include curriculum development, accreditation preparation, clinical affiliation development, instructional delivery, advisory committee leadership, and operating room competency validation. Ideal candidates must possess strong leadership, clinical expertise in surgical practice, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a developing program environment.This is a full-time instructional leadership role within the Division of Allied Health. The position requires significant interaction with students, faculty, staff, surgeons, perioperative teams, and clinical partners through online instruction, lab simulation, clinical coordination, and community engagement.The Program Director is expected to demonstrate expertise in:Surgical procedures and sterile techniqueOperating room protocols and patient safetySurgical instrumentation and technologyAccreditation and credentialing requirements (e.g., CST, CSFA pathways)The role requires the ability to support students in high-stress clinical environments, guide professional development, and ensure readiness for certification and employment in surgical settings.Employees in this role will:Advise and support students regarding academic progress, clinical performance, and certification readinessLead programmatic decision-makingEnsure compliance with accreditation, institutional, and regulatory requirementsPromote a culture of safety, professionalism, and excellence in surgical careThe role also supports institutional events such as Orientation, Graduation, advisory committee meetings, and employer engagement initiatives. A strong commitment to equity, access, and success for diverse and at-risk student populations is essential.Note: This position supports a developing program. The first year will focus on program development, accreditation preparation, clinical partnership development, and includes an online and lab-based teaching load. Chattanooga College may allow continued clinical practice in a surgical setting during the initial development phase. Upon accreditation approval and student enrollment, the role will transition into a fully engaged program leadership position.Salary RangeCommensurate with experience and program development phaseResponsibilitiesProvides academic leadership and oversight to Surgical Technology and Surgical First Assistant students, including regular evaluation of academic and clinical performance.Leads development and implementation of programs in alignment with institutional goals and CAAHEP/ARC-STSA accreditation standards.Oversees curriculum design, course sequencing, and instructional delivery (didactic, lab, and clinical).Develops and manages surgical skills labs, simulation experiences, and competency-based assessments.Establishes and maintains clinical affiliation agreements with hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and surgical practices.Ensures students achieve required clinical case logs, competencies, and exposure to surgical specialties (general, ortho, neuro, OB/GYN, etc.).Chairs the Program Advisory Committee to ensure curriculum relevance and alignment with employer needs and surgical workforce demands.Collaborates with surgeons, OR directors, and perioperative staff to enhance training quality and job placemen