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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in California

MTK Healthcare

Sterile Processing Tech

Chico, CA · On-site

Epic Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Sterile Processing Technician to join a dynamic healthcare team in a Level II trauma facility. This role is critical in ensuring the proper ...

Tenet Health

Sterile Processing Tech

Turlock, CA

Successful completion of Sterile Processing Program. Must be available to take call to ensure patient care needs are met. High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Must be able to read, write and ...

Shrinerschildrens

Sterile Processing Tech

Pasadena, CA

$26.25 - $48.74/hr

The Sterile Processing Technician decontaminates, cleans, assembles, requisitions, stores, and sterilizes supplies, instruments sets, and trays according to policy and procedure while using aseptic ...

HiredFirst

Sterile Processing Tech

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$1.5K/wk

Sterile Processing Technician (Contract) Location: California 93405 Contract Duration: 13 weeks * Pay: $11500/week * Schedule: 5 x 8-hour shifts * Shift: 2nd shift (Afternoon) * Hours: 2:00 PM - 10 ...

Tenet Health

Sterile Processing Tech

Turlock, CA

Successful completion of Sterile Processing Program. Must be available to take call to ensure patient care needs are met. High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Must be able to read, write and ...

Shriners Children's

Sterile Processing Tech

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$26.25 - $48.74/hr

The Sterile Processing Technician decontaminates, cleans, assembles, requisitions, stores, and sterilizes supplies, instruments sets, and trays according to policy and procedure while using aseptic ...

HENRY MAYO NEWHALL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

We continuously invest in the latest technology and innovation - which means you'll always be ... Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) through Healthcare Sterile Processing ...

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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech information

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How much do entry level sterile processing tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing tech in California is $27.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $32.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I get an entry level sterile processing tech job with no experience?

Entry level sterile processing technician positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training. Basic skills in cleanliness, attention to detail, and understanding of sterilization procedures are helpful, and obtaining certification such as the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) can improve job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level sterile processing tech?

To thrive as an Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech, you need a basic understanding of sterilization processes, infection control, and medical terminology, often supported by a high school diploma or completion of a sterile processing technician program. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilization equipment, and tracking systems like instrument management software is typically required, and certification such as CRCST is often preferred. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for ensuring patient safety and smooth workflow in healthcare environments. These skills and qualifications are important because they help maintain sterile conditions, prevent infections, and support the overall efficiency of surgical and medical procedures.

What is the difference between Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech vs Central Service Technician?

AspectEntry Level Sterile Processing TechCentral Service Technician
CertificationsTypically requires certification such as CBSPD or IAHCSMMOften requires similar certifications, may vary by employer
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgery centers, healthcare facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesCleaning, sterilizing, and preparing surgical instrumentsProcessing, sterilizing, and managing surgical tools and equipment
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare settings for sterile processingOften used interchangeably with sterile processing roles in healthcare

Both roles involve sterilizing and preparing surgical instruments, requiring similar certifications and working in healthcare environments. The terms are often used interchangeably, with slight variations depending on employer terminology. Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech and Central Service Technician roles are essential for maintaining sterile environments in medical facilities.

What is an entry level sterile processing tech?

Entry Level Sterile Processing Technicians are healthcare workers responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing medical instruments and equipment used in surgeries and other medical procedures. They ensure that all tools are free from contaminants to prevent infections and maintain patient safety. These technicians typically work in hospitals, surgical centers, and clinics, often as part of a larger sterile processing or central supply team. Their duties also include inventory management and following strict protocols for sterilization.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level sterile processing techs, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level sterile processing techs often face the challenge of adapting to strict protocols and working efficiently under time pressure. New techs must quickly learn to identify and handle a wide variety of medical instruments, ensuring each is cleaned and sterilized correctly. Attention to detail is crucial to prevent contamination and maintain patient safety. Building strong communication skills and seeking guidance from experienced colleagues can help overcome these challenges and foster confidence in daily responsibilities.

How to get hired as an entry level sterile processing tech?

To get hired as an entry-level sterile processing technician, candidates should complete a high school diploma or equivalent and obtain relevant certifications such as the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST). Experience with sterilization equipment and knowledge of infection control procedures are also valuable, and many employers provide on-the-job training for new hires.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing Tech jobs in California?

The most popular types of Sterile Processing Tech jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs in California?

For Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings:

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,437 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Sterile Processing Tech II

Northridge Hospital Medical Center

Northridge, CA

$26.79 - $33.66/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Dignity Health rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 284 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Sterile Processing Tech II, you will ensure patient safety and surgical efficiency by meticulously decontaminating, sterilizing, and assembling all medical instruments and equipment. Your precise work is fundamental to infection control and positive patient outcomes across clinical areas.
Every day, you will expertly process surgical instruments, maintain accurate documentation, test equipment, and manage inventory according to strict protocols. You'll adhere to infection control standards, troubleshoot equipment, and contribute to a safe, efficient sterile processing environment.
To be successful, you'll need exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational skills, excellent communication for coordination, and a profound commitment to sterile technique and patient safety. Self-motivation and adaptability are essential in this critical, fast-paced support service role.

Responsibilities: 

  • Cleans and decontaminates surgical instruments and other medical equipment following established policy and procedure.
  • Inspects, assembles, packages, and sterilizes medical devices following manufacturer's recommendations and established procedure.
  • Demonstrates a working knowledge and understanding of the principles of sterilization, asepsis, infection control, and universal safety precautions.
  • Understands and utilizes department logs or computers to document the processing steps. Use of hospital instrument tracking systems in all designated areas.
  • Disassembles, cleans, or decontaminates surgical instruments per manufacturer's recommendations, including but not limited to ultrasonic cleaning.
  • Maintains supply levels of all items required for daily use supplies and effectively communicates with those responsible for ordering.

This position is represented by SEIU-UHW and is covered by the terms and conditions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement.

Job Requirements

Requirements: 

  • High School / GED Graduate required.
  • Minimum of two years of experience with surgical instrumentation required.
  • Minimum two years prior sterile processing or surgical tech experience required. 
  • Completion of a Sterile Processing Program or surgical tech program required.
  • Certified and Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) required.
  • Certified Sterile Processing and Dist Supervisor (CSPDS) required. 
  • Certified Sterile Processing and Dist Tech (CSPDT-CBSPD) required. 
  • Current AHA BLS card required
  • Fire Card (within 90 days of hire) required.

Preferred: 

  • Associate's degree from an accredited institution preferred.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution preferred.
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1955, Dignity Health – Northridge Hospital Medical Center is a 394-bed, acute care, nonprofit community hospital located in Northridge, California. The hospital offers a full complement of award winning services, including the Leavey Cancer Center, a cardiovascular center, stroke center, the Center for Assault Treatment Services, a pediatric medical center, and the only pediatric trauma center in the San Fernando Valley. As a leading provider of compassionate, high-quality and affordable patient-centered care, we share a rich legacy with Dignity Health, one of the nation’s five largest health care systems. We are part of a 21-state network of nearly 9,000 physicians, 62,000 employees and more than 400 care centers. Visit here  dignityhealth.org/northridgehospital for more information.

One Community. One Mission. One California 


Pay Range
$26.79 - $33.66 /hour

What Dignity Health employees say

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About Dignity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We welcome the chance to help you feel your best. Excellent, affordable health care, delivered with compassion, is what we stand for. Since our founding in 1986, we've made it our goal to create environments that meet each patient's physical, mental, and spiritual needs. We also believe this healing philosophy promotes the wellbeing of our staff and the places they serve. Dignity Health is made up of more than 60,000 caregivers and staff who deliver excellent care to diverse communities in 21 states. Headquartered in San Francisco, Dignity Health is the fifth largest health system in the nation and the largest hospital provider in California. Through teamwork and innovation, faith and compassion, advocacy and action, we endeavor every day to keep you happy, healthy, and whole.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

1986

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