2

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Oregon

Sterile Processing DATE LAST REVIEWED: July 2026 OUR VISION: Creating America's healthiest ... Leads the educational implementation of new instrumentation, equipment, technologies, products, and ...

Sterile Processing Apprentice PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center | Springfield, OR Full Time | ... Work with advanced medical technology. Learn industry-standard sterilization, decontamination, and ...

Sterile Processing DATE LAST REVIEWED: July 2026 OUR VISION: Creating America's healthiest ... Leads the educational implementation of new instrumentation, equipment, technologies, products, and ...

Description Sterile Processing Apprentice PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center | Springfield, OR ... Work with advanced medical technology. Learn industry-standard sterilization, decontamination, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$29

$46

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing tech in Oregon is $29.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $35.10 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 cities in Oregon are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,462 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Samaritan Health Services rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

498th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

  • JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE
    • Responsible for processing and maintaining instruments, equipment, and supplies in assigned areas. Works with management to provide sterile instruments and equipment, prepares procedure and surgical case carts, and assists in the optimal functioning of assigned areas.
  • DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION
    • The Sterile Processing team significantly contribute to patient care at Samaritan Health Services by preparing equipment and rooms for surgery. We are responsible for the cleaning, decontamination, disinfection and sterilization of surgical instrumentation and medical devices to remove bioburden that can cause healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs).
  • EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS
    • High School diploma or equivalent required.
    • National Certification such as CSPDT or CRCST required.
  • KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
    • Customer Service - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer service. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services and evaluation of customer satisfaction. 
    • Communication - Effective written and oral communication skills to explain complex issues, exchange information between team members, and tactfully discuss issues. Ability to perform group presentations and listen to and understand complex information and ideas. 
    • Compliance - Ability to evaluate information to determine compliance with laws, regulations, or standards. Use knowledge and judgment skills to determine whether events or processes comply. 
    • Team Building - Ability to work, function and communicate on a multi-disciplinary team. Possess the knowledge and skills to develop constructive and cooperative working relationships with others and maintain them over time. 
    • Monitoring - Ability to monitor performance of self, other individuals, or processes to make improvements or take corrective action. Ability to watch gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly. Ability to evaluate problems and work toward solutions.
    • Confidentiality - Knowledge of State and Federal (HIPAA) laws pertaining to confidentiality of protected health information. Ability to comply with laws and maintain confidentiality of patient information.
  • PHYSICAL DEMANDS
    • Rarely
      (1 - 10% of the time)

      Occasionally
      (11 - 33% of the time)

      Frequently
      (34 - 66% of the time)

      Continually
      (67 – 100% of the time)

      CLIMB - STAIRS

      LIFT (Overhead: 54" and above) 0 - 20 Lbs

      CRAWL (hands & knees)

      SIT

      WALK - INCLINE

      CARRY 1-handed, 0 - 20 pounds

      SQUAT Static (hold >30 sec)

      BEND FORWARD at waist

      KNEEL (on knees)

      ROTATE TRUNK Sitting

      WALK – LEVEL SURFACE

      LIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 20 - 40 Lbs

      LIFT (Knee to chest: 24"-54") 20 - 40 Lbs

      LIFT (Waist to Eye: up to 54") 20 – 40 Lbs

      CARRY 2-handed, 20 - 40 pounds

      SQUAT Repetitive

      REACH - Forward

      REACH - Upward

      ROTATE TRUNK Standing

      MANUAL DEXTERITY Hands/wrists

      FINGER DEXTERITY

      PINCH Fingers

      GRASP Hand/Fist

      PUSH (0 - 20 pounds force)

      PULL (0 - 20 pounds force)

      STAND


What Samaritan Health Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom