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Central Processing Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Central Processing information

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$16

$28

$54

How much do central processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for central processing in Washington is $28.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $33.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a central processing?

Central Processing workers, often called Central Sterile Processing Technicians, are responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing medical instruments and equipment in hospitals and surgical centers. They ensure that all surgical tools and devices are free from contaminants to prevent infections and support patient safety. Their work is crucial in maintaining high standards of hygiene and efficient workflow in healthcare settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a central processing technician?

To thrive as a Central Processing Technician, you need knowledge of sterilization techniques, infection control standards, and equipment handling, often supported by a high school diploma and a certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with autoclaves, washer-disinfectors, inventory management software, and tracking systems is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies are vital to ensure the safe and timely delivery of sterile instruments, directly impacting patient care and surgical outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by central processing technicians, and how can new hires effectively manage them?

Central Processing technicians often encounter challenges such as staying up-to-date with evolving sterilization protocols, managing high workloads during peak hours, and ensuring meticulous attention to detail to prevent contamination. New hires can effectively manage these challenges by regularly participating in training sessions, maintaining open communication with surgical and nursing staff, and developing strong organizational habits to prioritize urgent tasks. Building teamwork skills and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can also provide valuable support in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Central Processing vs Data Entry Clerk?

AspectCentral ProcessingData Entry Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in data managementHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic computer skills
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, often in banking, healthcare, or government sectorsOffice or remote settings, primarily in administrative environments
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial institutions, healthcare providers, government agenciesBusinesses, administrative offices, data management companies

Central Processing involves managing and overseeing the processing of transactions or data at a higher level, often involving supervision and quality control. Data Entry Clerks focus on inputting data accurately into systems. While both roles require attention to detail and computer skills, Central Processing roles typically involve more responsibility and oversight compared to Data Entry Clerks.

What do central processing techs do?

Central processing technicians operate and maintain laboratory equipment used to analyze blood, tissue, and other samples. They prepare specimens, ensure proper labeling and documentation, and follow safety protocols to support diagnostic testing in healthcare settings.

What are popular job titles related to Central Processing jobs in Washington?

For Central Processing jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Central Processing jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Central Processing jobs in Washington are:

Central Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Central Processing job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,012 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Laboratory Section Specialist- Central Processing- Microbiology

Inova

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 261 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Inova Fairfax Medical Campus is looking for a dedicated Laboratory Section Specialist to join the Central Processing Laboratory team: This role will be Full-Time Day Shift: Monday-Friday 7am-3:30pm

Inova is consistently ranked a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, flexible work schedules, and remote and hybrid career opportunities.

Laboratory Section Specialist Job Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for designing team member schedules and assignments to ensure the proper/timely completion of work, the health/safety of team members and the overall efficient operation of the section; Directs the daily technical operations of the section while maintaining quality standards and procedures in order to meet CAP, The Joint Commission, AABB, CLIA and other regulatory agency requirements.
  • Follows standard protocol for patient/donor identification and specimen/blood product labeling including final verification.
  • Minimizes the number of corrected reports not attributed to auto verification or specimen conditions beyond technical control.
  • Leads and/or actively participates in quality improvement projects and team member engagement by enhancing team development and hospital/system goals.
  • Operating systems and methodologies in order to produce timely and accurate data for patients, quality control and proficiency testing is required.
  • Performs required maintenance procedures such as troubleshooting, corrective action and documentation for all procedures and instrumentation.
  • May perform additional duties as assigned.
  •  

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, Histo/Cyto Technology, Chemistry, Biology, or Physical Science
  • Years of Experience: 4 years of experience required.
  • Certification: ASCP Certification consistent with the scope of responsibility (MLS/MT,MLT, HT, HTL, BB, C, H, M, CT) or American Medical Technologists (AMT), or Laboratory Technologist Certification (HEW)., Medical Lab Tech (American Society of Clinical Pathologist - ASCP) or equivalent.

We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare. 

Inova Health System is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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