Sterile Processing Technician

Job Summary:

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for the decontamination, high-level disinfection, assembly, sterilization, and distribution of surgical instruments, trays, and equipment. This role ensures that all surgical supplies meet strict sterility and quality standards to support patient care in various hospital units. The technician operates sterilization equipment, inspects instruments for cleanliness and function, manages inventory, and maintains documentation to comply with regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Inspect, assemble, package, and sterilize surgical instrument pans, procedural trays, technical equipment, and surgical case carts according to established protocols.
• Select appropriate packaging and sterilization methods, consulting with management as needed.
• Operate steam sterilizers, monitor gauges, load and unload sterilizers, and perform basic maintenance such as cleaning drain baskets.
• Prepare and interpret biological cultures and test packs to assure sterility and complete required documentation.
• Decontaminate surgical instruments and equipment, prevent cross-contamination, and maintain cleanliness of work areas and equipment.
• Receive, check, store, and document supplies from vendors and hospital areas; assist in maintaining inventory par levels.
• Document and fill surgical supply orders and deliver supplies to patient care areas as needed.
• Maintain records of equipment inventory, servicing schedules, and report equipment requiring repair.
• Perform daily quality assurance checks on sterile supplies, stock levels, sterility dates, and procedure carts.
• Complete critical documentation such as biological and sterilizer load sheets to ensure compliance with department and regulatory standards.

Required Skills & Certifications:

• Certified Sterile Processor credential (HSPA or CBSPD)
• BLS certification (American Heart Association)
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Sterile Processing Technician
• Experience working in a large hospital setting (500+ beds)
• Travel experience of at least 6 months in sterile processing roles
• Two professional references from the last two assignments

Preferred Skills & Certifications:

• Experience in a Level 1 trauma center environment
• Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (CER) certification
• Experience with orthopedic instrument trays

Special Considerations:

• Work includes evenings, weekends, holidays, and on-call/callback duties as per unit needs
• Strict adherence to infection control, sterility, and safety protocols
• Compliance with department, legal, and regulatory standards is mandatory

Scheduling:

• 40 hours per week with evening shifts
• Shift assignments include weekends, holidays, and on-call/callback as required by the unit