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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Washington

Inova

Sterile Processing Technician 2

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$22.10 - $33.15/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.

Inova

Sterile Processing Technician Lead

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$24.17 - $39.40/hr

The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently. * Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.

Inova

Sterile Processing Technician Lead

Leesburg, VA · On-site

The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently. * Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.

Inova

Sterile Processing Technician Lead

Leesburg, VA · On-site

The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently. * Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.

Inova

Sterile Processing Technician Lead

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$24.17 - $39.40/hr

The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently. * Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.

Inova

Sterile Processing Supervisor

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$34.20 - $55.75/hr

Experience : Three years of Sterile Processing and/or OR Tech experience required. Enrollment in sterile processing technician course. Course completion within one year of being hired.

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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 Sep 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 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Washington?

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

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

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

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:

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,769 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

STERILE PROCESSING TECH PRN

Johns Hopkins Healthcare

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago

Johns Hopkins Medicine rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 233 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Suburban Hospital, a member of Johns Hopkins Medicine, is a community-based hospital serving Montgomery County and the surrounding region. A career at Suburban Hospital offers the opportunity to be part of Johns Hopkins while working alongside a collaborative team of healthcare professionals.
What Awaits You?
  • Flexible PRN scheduling
  • Career growth and professional development
  • A diverse and collaborative work environment
  • The opportunity to support high-quality surgical care and patient safety

The PRN Sterile Processing Technician inspects, cleans, assembles, and sterilizes surgical instruments and equipment. This position operates cleaning and sterilization equipment and prepares instruments and supplies for steam and low-temperature sterilization. The technician also ensures that processed instruments are complete, properly documented, and available to support surgical procedures.
Minimum Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Active Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) certification through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD)
  • Minimum of one year of proficient instrument-processing experience, including sterilization and instrument-set assembly

Salary Range: Minimum 33.50/hour - Maximum 33.50/hour. Compensation will be commensurate with equity and experience for roles of similar scope and responsibility. In cases where the range is displayed as a $0 amount, salary discussions will occur during candidate screening calls, before any subsequent compensation discussion is held between the candidate and any hiring authority.
The Hospital reserves the right to modify employee schedules as needed.
We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, where we embrace and celebrate our differences, where all employees feel valued, contribute to our mission of serving the community, and engage in equitable healthcare delivery and workforce practices.
Johns Hopkins Health System and its affiliates are drug-free workplace employers.
Johns Hopkins Health System and its affiliates are an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

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