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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Washington

UHS

STERILE PROCESSING TECHNICIAN (CERTIFIED)

Washington, DC · On-site

$21.59 - $31.31/hr

Minimum two years of sterile processing experience as a certified SPD Tech. * CRCST or equivalent ... certification (CSPDT) . Additional certifications preferred. * Strong communication, organization ...

UHS

STERILE PROCESSING TECHNICIAN (CERTIFIED)

Washington, DC · On-site

$21.59 - $29.15/hr

Minimum two years of sterile processing experience as a certified SPD Tech. * CRCST or equivalent certification (CSPDT). Additional certifications preferred. * Strong communication, organization, and ...

MedStar Health

SPD Technl

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

CSPDT - Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Tech within 1 Year required or * CSPM - Certified in Sterile Processing Management Knowledge Skills and Abilities * Able to communicate ...

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Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech information

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

As of Sep 2, 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 Supervisor

Inova Primary Care

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 261 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital is looking for a dedicated Sterile Processing Supervisor to join the team! This role will be a full-time Day/Evening Shift: Monday to Friday, 11:00am-7:30pm. We offer great pay based on experience, plus, don't forget about our other amazing benefits and perks! 

Inova is consistently ranked as a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation. 

Inova Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, and more

Sterile Processing Supervisor Job Responsibilities:

  • Looks at the OR schedule to prioritize instrumentation that is needed.
  • Differentiates by specialty based on OR schedule.
  • Provides alternate solutions when instrumentation is not available.
  • In collaboration with the OR charge nurse, reviews OR schedules and add-on cases, anticipating needs and/or conflicts with instrumentation, and offers alternative instrumentation as indicated.
  • Collaborates with Unit Management and sales representatives to coordinate loaner instrumentation and product evaluation/changes.
  • Assembles instrumentation accurately and efficiently and ensures sterility of all processed items.
  • Investigates problems/concerns and utilizes proactive problem-solving to meet customer needs.
  • Collects and analyzes data to improve work processes and makes recommendations to resolve problems and facilitate desired outcomes.
  • Responsible for daily review of all charts and biological/chemical tests from all sterilizers and following established protocols for positive biological results.
  • Other duties as assigned.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: High School diploma or GED 
  • 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.
  • Certification 
    • CRCST or CBSPD certification from The International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (CRCST) or Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) upon start
    • Certified Sterile Processing Management (CSPM) or Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL) certification to be obtained in one year of assignment if not already certified.

We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare. 

Inova Health is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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