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Central Sterile Processing Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

We are looking to hire a Sterile Processing Tech! As a Sterile Processing Tech at MercyOne Genesis ... Certified Registered Central Service Technician preferred Education : * High School diploma/GED or ...

We are looking to hire a Sterile Processing Tech! As a Sterile Processing Tech at MercyOne Genesis ... Certified Registered Central Service Technician preferred Education : * High School diploma/GED or ...

We are looking to hire a Sterile Processing Tech! As a Sterile Processing Tech at MercyOne Genesis ... Certified Registered Central Service Technician preferred Education : * High School diploma/GED or ...

We are looking to hire a Sterile Processing Tech! As a Sterile Processing Tech at MercyOne Genesis ... Certified Registered Central Service Technician preferred Education : * High School diploma/GED or ...

We are looking to hire a Sterile Processing Tech! As a Sterile Processing Tech at MercyOne Genesis ... Certified Registered Central Service Technician preferred Education : * High School diploma/GED or ...

We are looking to hire a Sterile Processing Tech! As a Sterile Processing Tech at MercyOne Genesis ... Certified Registered Central Service Technician preferred Education : * High School diploma/GED or ...

Central Processing Technician at Intermountain Healthcare Essential Functions Level I * Disassemble ... Issue sterile supplies to areas of the hospital or regional campuses. Issue and receive durable ...

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Central Sterile Processing information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$25

$41

How much do central sterile processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for central sterile processing in Iowa is $25.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $31.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a central sterile processing technician?

Central Sterile Processing technicians, often called sterile processing technicians or central service technicians, are healthcare workers responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing surgical instruments and medical equipment in hospitals and clinics. They ensure that all equipment is properly sanitized to prevent infections and maintain patient safety. These professionals play a critical role in supporting surgical teams by making sure that all tools are ready and safe for procedures. Their work is essential in maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance with healthcare regulations.

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

To thrive as a Central Sterile Processing Technician, you need a solid understanding of infection control, sterilization techniques, and medical instrumentation, typically supported by a high school diploma and certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilizers, tracking software, and adherence to regulatory standards is essential. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and teamwork in a clinical environment. These competencies are crucial for maintaining patient safety and supporting efficient surgical and procedural operations.

What are some common challenges faced by central sterile processing technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Central Sterile Processing Technicians often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of surgical instruments, maintaining strict adherence to sterilization protocols, and keeping up with evolving technology and regulatory standards. To address these challenges, technicians benefit from continuous training, strong attention to detail, and effective communication with surgical and nursing staff. Many facilities offer ongoing education and cross-training, which not only help technicians stay current but also open pathways for career advancement into supervisory or specialized roles.

What is the difference between Central Sterile Processing vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectCentral Sterile ProcessingSurgical Technologist
CertificationsCBSPD or IAHCSMM certificationCertified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentSterile processing departments, hospitals, clinicsOperating rooms, surgical suites
Job FocusSterilizing, disinfecting, and preparing surgical instrumentsAssisting during surgeries, passing instruments

While both roles support surgical procedures, Central Sterile Processing focuses on sterilizing and preparing instruments, whereas Surgical Technologists assist directly during surgeries. Both require specialized certifications and work in hospital environments, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

Is central sterile processing a good job?

Central sterile processing is a vital healthcare role involving sterilizing and preparing medical equipment, requiring attention to detail and knowledge of sterilization techniques. It offers stable employment, opportunities for certification, and typically involves working in a hospital or clinical environment. The job can be physically demanding but provides a steady career path with potential for advancement.

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

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

Infographic showing various Central Sterile Processing job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,713 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Manager Nursing Services-Central Sterile Processing-IMMC

UnityPoint Health

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

We're seeking a Sterile Processing Nurse Manager to lead a high-performing department that plays a critical role in patient safety and surgical excellence. In this role, you'll partner closely with OR teams, physicians, nurses, and clinical staff to ensure instrument readiness, regulatory compliance, and seamless support of patient care operations.

As the department leader, you'll have 24-hour accountability for Sterile Processing operations, creating a safe, engaging environment where team members can thrive and deliver exceptional outcomes.

What We're Looking For: A dynamic nursing leader with strong operational and people management skills, a passion for quality and patient safety, and the ability to inspire teams through change, collaboration, and innovation.

If you're ready to make a lasting impact on patient care while leading a vital healthcare team, we'd love to hear from you.


At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.  

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. Here are just a few:   

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.   
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.  
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.   

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. 

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.


As the Central Sterile Processing Nurse Manager, you will:

  • Lead department operations, including budget management, staffing, human resources, quality improvement, and performance monitoring.
  • Manage operational and capital budgets, financial performance, and resource utilization to achieve organizational goals.
  • Oversee recruitment, hiring, onboarding, staff development, competency management, retention, and performance reviews.
  • Drive quality, patient safety, and patient satisfaction initiatives through data analysis, performance metrics, and corrective action planning.
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory, accreditation, and safety standards, including OSHA, DNV, and Department of Public Health requirements.
  • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, continuous improvement, and evidence-based practice.
  • Develop and communicate departmental goals that align with the organization's strategic priorities.
  • Lead change management and process improvement initiatives using methodologies such as PDSA and Adaptive Design.
  • Build and maintain a positive work environment through employee engagement, coaching, mentoring, and career development.
  • Promote shared governance, collaboration, diversity, inclusion, and cultural competence across teams.
  • Serve as a trusted leader and role model, utilizing emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and effective communication skills.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary leaders to improve care coordination, operational effectiveness, customer satisfaction, and patient outcomes.

Education:

  • Graduate of an accredited school of nursing or IA Board of Nursing approved nursing program. 
  • Bachelor’s Degree Required; qualified candidates without a Bachelor’s degree are eligible but must submit an action plan  

     upon hire.  Bachelor’s to be completed within 3  years 

License(s)/Certification(s):

  • Current licensure in good standing to practice as a Registered Nurse in Iowa 

Experience:

  • Two or more years of progressing leadership positions in the healthcare environment.  
  • Two years of experience in the operating room setting preferred.

Other: 

  • Level 3 Medium Work:  Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995