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Autoclave Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Autoclave Operator information

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$4

$13

$15

How much do autoclave operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for autoclave operator in Michigan is $13.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.92 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an autoclave operator?

An Autoclave Operator is a skilled technician responsible for operating and maintaining autoclave machines, which use high pressure and temperature to sterilize equipment, materials, or to cure composites and other products. They ensure that items are loaded correctly, monitor cycles, and verify that sterilization or curing meets safety and quality standards. Autoclave Operators often work in healthcare, manufacturing, or research settings where strict hygiene or material properties are critical. Their role also includes routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and documentation of sterilization or processing procedures.

What does an autoclave operator do?

An autoclave is a powerful heated machine used for chemical reactions using high pressure and temperatures, such as steam sterilization. Autoclave operators operate and monitor this specialized pressure chamber in different settings. They work in hospitals or other healthcare facilities sterilizing surgical devices and other medical instruments. You may also function as an autoclave operator for a manufacturer of rubber products or yarn. In this position, you utilize the machine to vulcanize rubber or cure rubber composites and preset and preshrink yarn.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an autoclave operator?

To thrive as an Autoclave Operator, you need a solid understanding of sterilization processes, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with autoclave machinery, pressure gauges, temperature controls, and sometimes certification in hazardous materials handling or OSHA compliance is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong organizational skills help operators maintain strict safety and quality standards. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure effective sterilization, prevent contamination, and maintain workplace safety in industries like healthcare and manufacturing.

What are some typical challenges an autoclave operator might face during daily operations?

Autoclave Operators often encounter challenges like maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring correct loading to achieve consistent sterilization or material treatment. They must also carefully monitor temperature, pressure, and timing to avoid process deviations, which can impact product quality or safety. Effective communication with maintenance teams and quality control staff is essential for quickly resolving issues and maintaining workflow efficiency.

What is the difference between Autoclave Operator vs Sterilization Technician?

AspectAutoclave OperatorSterilization Technician
CertificationsOften requires OSHA or industry-specific safety trainingTypically requires sterilization or healthcare-related certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, laboratories, medical device manufacturingHospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical facilities
Job FocusOperating autoclaves to sterilize equipment and materialsPreparing, monitoring, and documenting sterilization processes

Both roles involve sterilization processes, but Autoclave Operators primarily focus on operating autoclaves in industrial or manufacturing settings, while Sterilization Technicians work mainly in healthcare environments ensuring proper sterilization of medical tools. Certifications and work environments overlap but differ based on industry specifics.

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What job categories do people searching Autoclave Operator jobs in Michigan look for?

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Autoclave Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autoclave Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,803 per year, or $13.4 per hour.

Plant Operator 2:30 PM - 11 PM -6649

Daniels Health

Taylor, MI

$20/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Daniels Health rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

We are looking to hire a Plant Operator for our Daniels’ medical waste treatment facility in Shakopee, MN. A Plant Operator has a widely varying role, from checking in containers, double checking paperwork, moving/unloading specific waste containers, and operating a forklift to load an autoclave. The ideal Plant Operator is an individual who likes variety in their work and can think through practical problems. Hi-Lo experience preferred. 
 
Taylor MI
 
Get to know us! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFLPhhgexzE
What will your job involve?
  • Weigh incoming regulated medical waste containers using the weighbridge
  • Load and operate the autoclave machine (waste treatment equipment)
  • Recertify 55‑gallon drums for safe reuse
  • Count universal waste (lightbulbs, batteries, etc.) and add them to manifests
  • Lift up to 75 lbs and handle 55‑gallon drums throughout the shift
  • Stand for extended periods in a non‑office, industrial setting
  • Follow written processes and safety procedures every time
  • Complete paperwork accurately and double‑check counts and labels
  • Spot and report issues with containers, paperwork, or equipment right away
  • Work closely with teammates and supervisors to keep the plant running smoothly
  • Help train others once you are competent in specific tasks
What are we looking for?
  • Experience in a labor‑intensive, warehouse, industrial, or manufacturing job 
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds safely and repeatedly 
  • Proven reliability and tenure with previous employers 
  • Comfortable working around medical and universal waste with PPE
  • Willingness to take a 5 panel urine drug screening
  • Willingness to take a 7 year background check
  • Basic math and ability to read/record weights accurately
  • Familiarity with weighbridge/scale systems
  • Proven longevity with employers
  • “Can‑do” attitude and commitment to safe, efficient work
Why work for us?
  • Job stability – as an essential service to healthcare we are non-seasonal and recession proof.
  • Consistent work hours- Monday to Friday 1st Shift (2:30 PM - 11 PM)
  • Benefits: Full time roles are provided benefits, sick leave and vacation leave from day one!
  • Permanent position – This is a Full-time permanent role of 40 hours per week!
  • Competitive salary – This position is offering a set rate (non-Negotiable) of $20.00 per hour!
Who are we?
We are a healthcare service company providing safety systems and medical waste collection for hospitals, medical centers, surgical centers, nursing homes and an array of customers within the healthcare setting. Our focus is delivering quality and safety-focused medical waste management services that reduce needlestick injuries, positively impact infection control and reduce environmental burden. As a service to our customers we dispose and treat medical waste on site at our treatment facilities across the U.S.


Daniels Health & Sharpsmart is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. Daniels Health & Sharpsmart prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Daniels Health & Sharpsmart  conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

Daniels Health conducts background checks and drug testing as part of the post‑offer hiring process.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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