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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Illinois

Sterile Processing Tech

Decatur, IL · On-site

$17.14 - $26.56/hr

... Sterile Processing Lead Technician to facilitate daily plan for instrumentation need and turnaround. * Collaborates with instrument vendors, nursing and equipment tech personnel to actively ...

Sterile Processing Tech

Decatur, IL · On-site

$17.14 - $26.56/hr

... Sterile Processing Lead Technician to facilitate daily plan for instrumentation need and turnaround. * Collaborates with instrument vendors, nursing and equipment tech personnel to actively ...

Sterile Processing Tech

Decatur, IL · On-site

$17.14 - $26.56/hr

... Sterile Processing Lead Technician to facilitate daily plan for instrumentation need and turnaround. * Collaborates with instrument vendors, nursing and equipment tech personnel to actively ...

Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time/Part Time: (40 hours) per week * Hours: 2:00pm-10:30pm rotating weekends and holidays required What you will need: * Education: GED/High ...

Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time/Part Time: (40 hours) per week * Hours: 2:00pm-10:30pm rotating weekends and holidays required What you will need: * Education: GED/High ...

Sterile Processing Tech - Days

Skokie, IL · On-site

$19.89 - $28.84/hr

Position: Certified Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time/Part Time: (40 hours) per week * Hours: 6:00am-2:30pm rotating weekends and holidays required What you will need:

Sterile Processing Tech - Days

Skokie, IL · On-site

$19.89 - $28.84/hr

Position: Certified Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time/Part Time: (40 hours) per week * Hours: 6:00am-2:30pm rotating weekends and holidays required What you will need:

Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time/Part Time: (40 hours) per week * Hours: 2:00pm-10:30pm rotating weekends and holidays required What you will need: * Education: GED/High ...

Sterile Processing Tech - Nights

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.89 - $28.84/hr

Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Chicago, IL * Full Time/Part Time: 40 hours per week * Hours: 10:00pm-6:30am rotating weekends and holidays What you will need: * Education: GED/High School ...

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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$26

$42

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing tech in Illinois is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $32.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

How much does an entry level sterile processing technician make with no experience?

An entry-level sterile processing technician with no experience typically earns between $30,000 and $40,000 annually. Starting salaries can vary based on location, healthcare facility, and certifications such as CBSPD or IAHCSMM, with some positions offering additional benefits or shift differentials.

Is it hard to get hired as an entry level sterile processing tech?

Entry level sterile processing technicians typically find it accessible to get hired, especially if they have a high school diploma and basic knowledge of sterilization procedures. Employers often provide on-the-job training, and certifications such as the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) can improve job prospects. Strong attention to detail and familiarity with sterilization tools are valuable for securing a position.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,415 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Sterile Processing Tech

Memorial Health

Decatur, IL • On-site

$17.14 - $26.56/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Memorial Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 177 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

420th of 895 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Min
USD $17.14/Hr.
Max
USD $26.56/Hr.
Overview
  • Full time
  • Evening shift, 2pm - 10:30 pm
  • Weekend rotation

Assists with support of efficient and effective packaging, decontamination and handling of sterile medical products. Completes training in all of the areas of assembly, phones/case carts and decontamination and to pass a competency requirement of the department. At the completion of orientation, responsible for processing and reprocessing of reusable products as well as preparation of case cart. Participates in activities to analyze and improve sterile processing performance and support safety. Manages supplies, instrumentation, instrumentation repairs and equipment repair activities.
Qualifications
Education:
  • Graduation from high school or the equivalent required.

Licensure/Certification/Registry:
  • Certification as a Central Service Technician preferred within 18 months.

Experience:
  • Successful completion of orientation programs and competency requirements required within four months of hire.

Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Knowledgeable in the storage, handling and distribution of sterile medical products.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of surgical attire, aseptic techniques, event-related sterility, monitoring of environmental conditions, traffic patterns and other practices influencing maintenance of a sterile filed.
  • Demonstrates competence in the use of decontamination equipment, flash sterilization, and instrument sterilization.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of fire safety and evacuation routes.
  • Demonstrates excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Basic proficiency with personal computers and their associated applications.
  • Possess the ability to regularly lift, push and pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Demonstrates the ability to multi-task autonomously while working on multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
  • Demonstrates creativity, flexibility and the ability to resolve atypical problems.

Responsibilities
  1. Performs cleaning, inspection and protective measures after instrumentation use to ensure proper operation. Promptly identifies any defects and malfunctions. Takes proper steps in plan for repair or loaners from external vendors. Appropriately reports instrumentation and equipment removed from service for repair. Inspects items returned from repair prior to replacing into service.

  1. Consults with Sterile Processing Manager or Sterile Processing Lead Technician to facilitate daily plan for instrumentation need and turnaround.

  1. Collaborates with instrument vendors, nursing and equipment tech personnel to actively contribute to the instrumentation turnaround planned for specific surgical cases are available and prepared for use.

  1. Demonstrates competence in the use of decontamination equipment, flash/container sterilization and implements instrument sterilization.

  1. Examines the surgical environment for conditions that pose a safety risk and takes action to minimize risk.

  1. Verbally and nonverbally demonstrates a willingness to support organizational change and assists with the development of a plan to accomplish change. Functions to support a culture of teamwork and safety.

  1. Demonstrates knowledge of surgical attire, aseptic technique, event-related sterility, monitoring of environmental conditions, traffic patterns and other practices influencing maintenance of a sterile field.

  1. Demonstrates compliance with safety principles. Recognizes and reports unsafe conditions and contributes to their resolution. Demonstrates knowledge of fire safety and evacuation routes.

  1. Handles floor stock medications or medications delivered from pharmacy directly or through the pneumatic tube system. Relocates these medications, in original containers, to designated secure storage locations or delivers to the appropriate licensed staff.

  1. Performs other related work as required or requested.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

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