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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Washington

Sterile Processing Tech

Olney, MD · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred Experience * 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or * Relevant hospital experience may be ...

Sterile Processing Tech

Olney, MD · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred Experience * 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or * Relevant hospital experience may be ...

Sterile Processing Tech

Olney, MD · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred Experience * 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or * Relevant hospital experience may be ...

Sterile Processing Tech

Olney, MD · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred Experience * 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or * Relevant hospital experience may be ...

Sterile Processing Tech 2

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$22.76 - $37.10/hr

The Sterile Processing Tech 2 decontaminates instruments in a safe and appropriate manner. * Assembles instrumentation accurately and efficiently and ensures sterility of all processed items.

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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech information

See Washington salary details

$15

$31

$49

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

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing tech in Washington is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $37.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech, and why are they important?

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 are Entry Level Sterile Processing Techs?

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.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,769 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Sterile Processing Tech

MedStar Health

Olney, MD • On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Medstar Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 239 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

About the Job
General Summary of Position
Under direct supervision of the Team Lead performs specific sterile processing functions for the operating room and other patient care units as deemed operationally necessary following approved infection control quality assurance and departmental policies and procedures.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Clinical/Technical: Performs sterile processing functions. Cleans and decontaminates reusable medical devices following manufacturer's instructions and established policies. Inspects assembles packages and sterilizes reusable medical devices following manufacturer's instructions and established procedures. Transports all patient care equipment to SPD decontamination area. Manually cleans and disinfects select patient care equipment. Cleans and sterilizes loaner instrumentation as required to department policy procedure and IFUs. Cleans supply carts and operational equipment including ultrasonic cleaner washers and sterilizers as required by departmental policy and procedures. Examine test and monitor reprocessing equipment to ensure they are operating properly prior to daily use.
  • Coordination: Coordinates and maintains instruments and supplies according to department standards. Restocks supply carts in designated areas utilizing inventory control methods. Documents all cleaning activities in designated records. Returns clean patient care equipment to staging area. Records and maintains accurate daily records of all sterilization functions according to regulatory agencies and quality assurance standards.
  • Development: Maintains current knowledge certification and licensure. Identifies learning opportunities and initiates actions to address these education needs. Attends continuing education programs. Attends hospital sponsored training programs as required by the department. Meets all mandatory obligations.
  • Organizational knowledge: Works effectively within and between departments. Participates on inter-departmental teams and committees communicating unit knowledge as appropriate or participates in hospital related activities. Provides department/unit with information and knowledge acquired during participation with interdepartmental teams and committees. Demonstrates a constructive approach during all interactions with staff supervisors and managers both inside and outside the unit.
  • Minimal Qualifications
    Education
    • High School Diploma or GED or equivalent required
    • Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred
    Experience
    • 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or
    • Relevant hospital experience may be considered preferred
    Licenses and Certifications
    • Certification as Central Service Technician preferred
    Knowledge Skills and Abilities
    • Basic Computer skills required
    • Ability to read write speak and comprehend English.
    • HIPAA policies on Confidentiality
    • Ability to work in a fast-paced Healthcare Services environment
    • Ability to perform tasks simultaneously while maintaining quality
    • Ability to actively engage in the department's performance improvement activities
    • Extensive knowledge of instrumentation preferred

    This position has a hiring range of
    USD $18.70 - USD $32.72 /Hr.

    What Medstar Health employees say

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    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

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    About Medstar Health

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    MedStar Health is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for people in Maryland and the Washington, D.C., region, while advancing the practice of medicine through education, innovation, and research. Our team of 32,000 includes physicians, nurses, residents, fellows, and many other clinical and non-clinical associates working in a variety of settings across our health system, including 10 hospitals and more than 300 community-based locations, the largest home health provider in the region, and highly respected institutes dedicated to research and innovation. As the medical education and clinical partner of Georgetown University for more than 20 years, MedStar Health is dedicated not only to teaching the next generation of doctors, but also to the continuing education, professional development, and personal fulfillment of our whole team. Together, we use the best of our minds and the best of our hearts to serve our patients, those who care for them, and our communities. It's how we treat people.

    Industry

    Health care and social assistance

    Company size

    10,000+ Employees

    Headquarters location

    Columbia, MD, US

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