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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Rhode Island

SPD tech

Providence, RI

$19.97 - $32.96/hr

The Central Sterile Technician reports to the Manager Sterile Processing. Under the direction of the Lead Sterile Processing Technician, performs duties to reprocess surgical instruments and medical ...

The Central Sterile Technician reports to the Manager Sterile Processing. Under the direction of the Lead Sterile Processing Technician, performs duties to reprocess surgical instruments and medical ...

The Central Sterile Technician reports to the Manager Sterile Processing. Under the direction of the Lead Sterile Processing Technician, performs duties to reprocess surgical instruments and medical ...

The Central Sterile Technician reports to the Manager Sterile Processing. Under the direction of the Lead Sterile Processing Technician, performs duties to reprocess surgical instruments and medical ...

SPD Tech

Providence, RI

$19.97 - $32.96/hr

The Central Sterile Technician reports to the Manager Sterile Processing. Under the direction of the Lead Sterile Processing Technician, performs duties to reprocess surgical instruments and medical ...

The Central Sterile Technician reports to the Manager Sterile Processing. Under the direction of the Lead Sterile Processing Technician, performs duties to reprocess surgical instruments and medical ...

The Central Sterile Technician reports to the Manager Sterile Processing. Under the direction of the Lead Sterile Processing Technician, performs duties to reprocess surgical instruments and medical ...

The Central Sterile Technician reports to the Manager Sterile Processing. Under the direction of the Lead Sterile Processing Technician, performs duties to reprocess surgical instruments and medical ...

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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech information

See Rhode Island salary details

$13

$26

$42

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing tech in Rhode Island is $26.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.52 and $32.50 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 Rhode Island?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,003 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Sterile Processing Technician

Brown University Health

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Brown University Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

500th of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description

SUMMARY Under the direction of the Sterile Processing Manager and or direction of the Sterile Processing Supervisor, identifies, inspects, assembles and sterilizes equipment, supplies and procedure trays. Packages, cleans and decontaminates routine surgical instruments, patient care equipment and monitors sterilizers and associated equipment. Responsible for stocking of supplies and instruments and orients and trains other Technicians.

Displays familiarity with case cart process, instrument pick lists and instrument repair process. Demonstrates willingness to learn all aspects of the Sterile Processing Department including, but not limited to, surgical services, outside clinics Orthopedics, Cardiac, Neuro, Vascular, Transplant and Gynecological Instrumentation, Implant trays, Power equipment, Flexible endoscopes and the Instrument Management System. Brown University Health employees are expected to successfully role model the organization's values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence as these values guide our everyday actions with patients, customers and one another.

RESPONSIBILITIES Ensures proper decontamination of surgical instruments, syringes, and equipment in order to clean, identify and inspect. Processes procedure trays, instruments sets, orthopedic sets and equipment through the decontamination room according to established cleaning procedures. Performs leak test and decontamination for various endoscopes according to established procedures.

Utilizes detergents, disinfectants, and washers in a prescribed manner for proper cleaning/decontamination and drying, following standard precautions with no more than two documented errors annually. Ensures proper assembly and packaging of instrument sets to allow proper sterilization. Inspects instrument sets for cleanliness.

Checks or tests instrumentation for sharpness, burrs and function. Assembles and wraps instrument equipment trays following the established procedure for each tray. Labels and initials all assembled procedure trays making sure that all quality control monitors have been placed accurately.

Operates steam (flash and prevac), EPS Scope Processor and other equipment relating to sterilization of supplies, according to written Q.A. procedures. Identifies and checks instruments for proper operation and overall condition according to established procedures with no more than two documented errors annually

Conducts biological monitoring for all sterilizers. Performs Bowie-Dick and biological testing of all sterilizers in the department and operating room daily in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations. Incubates, interprets and records results of all biological tests.

Immediately implements recall procedures when positive biological testing is encountered, notifying all affected departments, Sterile Processing Supervisor. Prepares O.R. case carts and performs Distribution rounds

Maintains prescribed inventory levels for each cart. Ensures proper rotation of all supplies and carts within and out of the department, as observed by supervisors. Prints operating room schedule pick lists according to procedure and accurately assembles case carts for surgery.

Performs distribution and pick-up daily on nursing units for instrumentation. Monitors the workflow and communication of designated shifts to ensure the completion of work assignments. Assumes the role of SPD Tech Charge person when assigned and to assist in the assignment of workload to SPD Techs when in charge, taking in consideration priority of work and skill of employee as demonstrated by assignments being completed on time.

Completes all required documentation (shift reports) when assigned charge responsibility. Answers telephone in a courteous manner according to department policy, maintaining complete and accurate records of all messages and requests. Coordinates the day-to-day needs of the operating room based on schedule and communicates effectively to SPD department.

Incorporates these needs into own daily assignments. Submits suggestions to facilitate the workflow of the department. Maintains a clean and safe work environment.

Contributes to the efficient operation of the department. Cleans, inspects and maintains equipment according to written procedures, as observed by supervisors. Performs routine cleaning of all areas and carts as scheduled and/or when needed.

Adheres to all safety procedures with particular attention to the operation of sterilizers. Promotes professional image by adhering to the established dress code of the hospital and wearing the name badge as evidenced by supervisor's observation. Maintains confidentiality of information obtained in the performance of duties.

Maintains inventory control systems for procedure trays and equipment. Monitors supply availability during performance of duties and reports low levels to group leaders or supervisor. Supports training and orientation of new personnel to department.

Assists and works with orientating new staff to various department assignments. Demonstrates to new staff required applications/techniques within assignments. Decontamination Instrument Inspection Tray Assembly Packaging Sterilizers - Steam-Sterrad-System Sterile Storage Distribution Case Carts Participates in the completion of SPD Tech competencies with new staff member and management team.

Contributes in team meeting when precepting new employees. STANDARD STAFFING LEVEL RESPONSIBILITIES Complies with established departmental policies, procedures and objectives. Demonstrates use of Quality Improvement in daily operations.

Complies with all health and safety regulations and requirements. Respects diverse views and approaches, demonstrates Standards of Respect, and contributes to creating and maintaining an environment of professionalism, tolerance, civility and acceptance toward all employees, patients, and visitors. Maintains regular, reliable, and predictable attendance.

Performs other similar and related duties as required or directed. BASIC KNOWLEDGE High School Graduate or equivalent with the ability to read, write and speak fluent English. Having a Sterile Processing Certification through the Health Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) or its equivalent is preferred.

EXPERIENCE Required three to six months previous related work experience demonstrating familiarity with surgical instrumentation, decontamination and sterilization techniques, and stock room functions. Such experience may have been obtained by performing related duties in central services, surgical reprocessing, or a surgical stock room. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Visual and manual dexterity to operate automatic washers and sterilization equipment according to equipment operating instructions.

Physical ability to stand for long periods of time, to lift and carry moderately heavy surgical trays, to push carts into sterilization unit and to receive and store supplies, materials and equipment. General hospital environment with normal conditions associated with patient care. INDEPENDENT ACTION Follow policies and procedures referring complex situations to supervisor.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY None. Pay Range $27.09 - $28.27 Location Rhode Island Hospital - 593 Eddy Street Providence, Rhode Island 02903 Work Type M-F 10:00pm - 6:30am, Weekend and Holiday Rotation Work Shift Night Driving Required No Union International Brotherhood Teamsters Brown University Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Apply


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