2

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in California

We continuously invest in the latest technology and innovation - which means you'll always be ... The SPD Technician II is an experienced sterile processing professional responsible for complex ...

We continuously invest in the latest technology and innovation - which means you'll always be ... The SPD Technician II is an experienced sterile processing professional responsible for complex ...

We continuously invest in the latest technology and innovation - which means you'll always be ... The SPD Technician II is an experienced sterile processing professional responsible for complex ...

Travel Sterile Processing Tech

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Medlivo is seeking a travel Sterile Processing Technician for a travel job in San Luis Obispo, California. & Requirements * Specialty: Sterile Processing Technician * Discipline: Allied Health ...

New

Certified Sterile Processing Technician * Duration: 13.0 weeks * Shift Details: Evening Shift/Tuesday - Friday, 10 hours 1200-2230. * Shift Type: 2nd 8h * Location: Sonora, CA * Unit: Sterile ...

$17.30 - $26.81/hr

  • Medical

If you are a Sterile Processing Technician who's interested in working for a regional leader in healthcare, delivering compassionate care and improving the lives of those in our communities, join the ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$43

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

As of Aug 14, 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 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:

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 - Sterile Processing - Full Time 8 Hour Days (Non-Exempt) (Union)

Keck Medicine of USC

Los Angeles, CA

$27.45 - $46.68/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Keck Medicine of USC rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

299th of 1,059 rated hospitals


Job description

Under general supervision of the Sterile Processing Supervisor or Sterile Processing Educator, the Sterile Processing Technician (SPT)II serve with basic knowledge of Sterile Processing techniques/skills and is responsible for decontaminating, operationally checking, assembling, sterilizing, and distributing reusable surgical/clinical instrumentation and implants throughout the organization. Operate Steam (autoclave) and H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) sterilizers, sonic equipment, automated washers and heat sealers. Store, date, rotate and distribute reusable surgical/clinical instrumentation. All in accordance with department and manufacturer IFU guidelines.

Essential Duties

  • Assemble and package surgical/clinic procedure instrument sets following protocols established by electronic count sheets and manufacturer IFU. Operationally check instrumentation for functionality and cleanliness

  • Disassemble instruments/equipment, remove gross contamination, manually wash instruments, decontaminate and load automated washers according to manufacturer's instructions for use (IFU).

  • Operate and maintain sterilization and disinfection equipment according to established protocols and professional standards. Maintain sterilization documentation related to items processed, quality assurance, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

  • Dispense sterile instrumentation to appropriate locations in the Sterile Storage and OR. Maintain sterile inventory through par level maintenance, stock rotation, and quality assurance. Proper distribution of sterile clinic instrumentation..

  • Maintain timely and efficient process flows through communication with outside departments and sterile processing technicians in other assignments. Train and assist other Sterile Processing Technicians in the duties listed above.

  • Troubleshoot and address routine equipment, instrument, and customer issues. Interface with OR, ancillary departments, and other customers to resolve issues. Receive loaner trays via Casechek and communicate with outside companies to help resolve instrument issues.

  • Prepares loads, operates equipment involved in sterilization processes.

  • Must be knowledgeable of and adhere to all SPD policies/procedures/SOPs in performance of duties.

  • Prepares OR case carts and places any missing items on the OR shortage list. Inspects packages for indications of proper sterilization.

  • Obtain knowledge of documentation and logging of information and use of the Censitrac tracking system

  • May train or provide guidance or work direction to the Sterile Processing Technician I as needed.

  • Performs all other duties as assigned.


Required Qualifications

  • Req High School or equivalent

  • Req Specialized/technical training Completion of a Sterile Processing Program or an accredited Surgical Technician program. If no completion of program, must have an additional three years of experience as a Sterile Processing Tech.

  • If no completion of program, must have an additional three years of experience as a Sterile Processing Tech.

  • Req 1 year Sterile Processing

  • Req Basic knowledge of computer systems including Windows OS, keyboard and mouse operation.

  • Req Ability to operate complex machinery including washers, ultrasonic cleaners, and sterilizers.

  • Req Demonstrated ability to competently perform multiple, complex tasks.

  • Req Knowledge of medical terminology

Required Licenses/Certifications

  • Req Sterile Processing Certification Current Certification as a Sterile Processing Technician through an accredited organization (HSPA, CBSPD) or Valid Certified Surgical Tech (CST) or Surgery-Certified Credential (TS-C) from CAAHEP or ABHES certification (Must be maintained by renewal before expiration date).

  • Req Fire Life Safety Training (LA City) If no card upon hire, one must be obtained within 30 days of hire and maintained by renewal before expiration date. (Required within LA City only)

Keck Hospital of USC, a 343-bed acute care hospital, provides exceptional and innovative care for complex medical and surgical conditions across a wide range of specialties. The hospital's world-renowned physicians deliver compassionate, customized, patient-centered care and treat the most acutely ill patients with highly innovative techniques and treatment plans. As a leading academic medical center, hundreds of clinical trials are currently taking place at Keck Hospital and its affiliated research institutions, giving patients access to novel and promising therapies that are generally not available elsewhere. Every day at Keck Hospital, physicians, nurses and staff go beyond the science of exceptional medicine to bring patients breakthroughs in the art of caring. Join this world-class team providing highly specialized care, up-to-the-minute research, and innovative clinical trials.
The hourly rate range for this position is $27.45 - $46.68.
When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$151681.htmld

What Keck Medicine of USC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom