Sterile Processing Technician Jobs

What Is A Sterile Processing Technician?

A sterile processing tech is responsible for making sure that surgical equipment is clean and available. This obviously involves sterilizing equipment but also involves making sure that surgical equipment is working and available when needed.

Sterile processing technicians will work in tandem with clinical staff, taking in used surgical equipment, sterilizing it, testing its function, and ensuring that the equipment is available for the next surgical case. This job requires advanced training, as it involves handling potentially dangerous equipment contaminated with patients’ body fluids. Failing to sterilize equipment correctly can cause deadly infections in surgical patients, making the role of a sterile processing technician vitally important.

Sterile Processing Technician Duties

While the duties of a sterile processing technician center around cleaning and sterilizing medical equipment, they have a much wider scope. Sterile processing technician duties and responsibilities will include:

• Cleaning and sterilizing surgical equipment as well as other medical equipment
• Verifying that all equipment is undamaged and working correctly
• Documenting each piece of equipment that was sterilized
• Maintaining inventory of what equipment is available and if new equipment is needed
• Packing sterilized equipment correctly to ensure that it stays sterile
• Delivering equipment to different departments and ensuring it is accessible when needed
• Protecting themselves and others from biohazardous materials

To perform these duties, you are required to complete advanced training. While some states allow on-the-job training, this is a more difficult path.

Most people in this role complete a sterile processing technician certificate program that shows they have completed the necessary education.

Beyond a diploma, many people will get a sterile processing technician certification by taking an additional test after completing sterile processing technician school. The more educationally prepared one is for a role as a sterile processing tech, the better the chances of getting a job.

Sterile Processing Technician Salary & Job Outlook

As sterile processing technicians have a vital role in the safety of all patients undergoing a surgical procedure, the job outlook is highly favorable. With a projected growth of 10-14% by 2026, the demand for sterile processing technicians makes this a great career option.

The facilities with the highest paying sterile processing tech roles are in states like California, Nevada, Utah, North Dakota, New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

At Sunbelt, we are dedicated to finding you a role that works for your personal and financial needs. Join our team to discover a knowledgeable, committed, passionate, trustworthy and experienced partner.

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