Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric
O*NET 29-1242.00 · SOC 29-1242
Orthopedic Surgeon is a solid career choice. Median pay is $359k a year with +4% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 400 openings a year. AI exposure: Low.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Repair fractured bones using plates, screws, or rods
- →Perform joint replacement surgeries on hips and knees
- →Examine X-rays and MRIs to diagnose musculoskeletal injuries
- →Reconstruct torn ligaments using arthroscopic surgical techniques
- →Fit patients with casts or braces after bone injuries
Education & How to Get In
Orthopedic Surgeon roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Orthopedic Surgeon involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Orthopedic Surgeon?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Orthopedic Surgeon Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric is projected to grow 4% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Orthopedic Surgeon make?
The median Orthopedic Surgeon earns $359k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Orthopedic Surgeon jobs?
Our model puts Orthopedic Surgeon at 22 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is low risk, AI-resistant. The main drivers: 30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Orthopedic Surgeon a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Orthopedic Surgeon?
Orthopedic Surgeon roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become an Orthopedic Surgeon?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Orthopedic Surgeon career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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