ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Reading, PA

Compass Group

HOUSEKEEPER

Pottstown, PA · On-site

$18.39/hr

... Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Summary: Performs light cleaning duties to maintain establishments, including hotels, restaurants and hospitals, in a ...

Compass Group

PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT

Pottsville, PA · On-site

$17/hr

... Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Summary: Provides visual and audible observation of assigned patients under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN) and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSterile Processing Tech JobsEntry Level Sterile Processing Tech JobsEntry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Reading, PA

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech information

See Reading, PA salary details

$13

$26

$42

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing tech in Reading, PA is $26.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $31.88 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 Reading, PA?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Reading, PA are:

What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA 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 Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,919 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Supervisory Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing)-Chief

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Lebanon, PA • On-site

$99K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

This position is located in Sterile Processing Service (SPS), Lebanon VA Medical Center, Lebanon, Pennsylvania. This position provides leadership by identifying and maintaining SPS standards, for the practice of all services and care lines, and contributes to the fulfillment of the Mission of the clinical areas.
Qualifications:Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements:
  • United States Citizenship. Citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Chapter 3, Section A, paragraph 3g.)
  • Experience. Six months of experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides an understanding of the work; or
  • Education. One year above high school that included at least 6 semester hours in health care related courses such as sterile processing, nursing assistant, hospital corpsman, and operating room and surgical technician courses or other courses related to the position; or
  • Experience/Education Combination. Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable.
  • Certification. None.
  • English Language Proficiency. MSTs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3j, this part.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Grade Determinations: GS-10
  • Experience. One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
  • Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
  1. Ability to implement and incorporate regulations, policies, and procedures to manage SPS operations.
  2. Ability to evaluate new products and equipment, develop options, and make recommendations.
  3. Ability to integrate SPS managerial duties, which includes strategic planning of facility organizational goals and integration of SPS vision and values within the organizational mission.
  4. Ability to perform a full range of supervisory duties, including assigning, planning and evaluating work, recommending awards, approving leave, identifying training needs, and resolving staff issues.
  5. Skill to initiate and lead interdisciplinary groups in order to facilitate daily SPS functions.
  6. Ability to analyze and interpret fiscal data in order to forecast resource and equipment needs.
Preferrred Experience:
  1. VHA SPS Certification or any other nationally recognized certification such as HSPA's, CRCST or CBSPD certification program.
  2. SPS Experience.
  3. Management experience.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
Physical Requirements: You will be asked to participate in a pre-employment evaluation [or examination] as part of the pre-employment process for this position. Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.Education:Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER

Apply