2

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Riverside, CA

... medication orders and processing status. Minimum Education and Experience Qualification ... technology, and government industries. Through our core purpose of positively impacting lives, w ...

About the Role The Surgical Tech is responsible for assisting with direct patient care activities ... collection, sterile processing, Title 22, JCAHO) as they relate while performing all ...

Surgical Tech

Tustin, CA · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

... collection, sterile processing, Title 22, JCAHO) as they relate while performing all ... Graduate of an Accredited Surgical Tech Program * Must demonstrate customer service skills ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$28

$45

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 Riverside, CA is $28.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $34.62 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 cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,660 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Sterile Processing Clerk - Ontario Advanced Surgery Center

SCA Health

Ontario, CA • On-site

$25 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


SCA Health rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

269th of 889 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

At SCA Health, we believe health care is about people – the patients we serve, the physicians we support and the teammates who push us forward. Behind every successful facility, procedure or innovation is a team of 15,000+ professionals working together, learning from each other and living out the mission, vision and values that define our organization. 

As part of Optum, SCA Health is redefining specialty care by developing more accessible, patient-centered practice solutions for a network of more than 370 ambulatory surgical centers, over 400 specialty physician practice clinics and numerous labs and surgical hospitals. Our work spans a broad spectrum of services, all designed to support physicians, health systems and employers in delivering efficient, value-based care to patients without compromising quality or autonomy.  

What sets SCA Health apart isn’t just what we do, it’s how we do it. Each decision we make is rooted in seven core values

  • Clinical quality 
  • Integrity 
  • Service excellence 
  • Teamwork 
  • Accountability 
  • Continuous improvement 
  • Inclusion 

Our values aren’t empty words – they inform our attitudes, actions and culture. At SCA Health, your work directly impacts patients, physicians and communities. Here, you’ll find opportunities to build your career alongside a team that values your expertise, invests in your success, and shares a common mission to care for patients, serve physicians and improve health care in America.    

At SCA Health, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your health, well-being, and financial future. Our offerings include medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k plan with company match, paid time off, life and disability insurance, and more. Please visit, https://careers.sca.health/why-sca, to learn more about our benefits.

Your ideas should inspire change. If you join our team, they will


Responsibilities

The Sterile Processing Clerk (Instrument Processing Technician) is responsible for maintaining instruments and equipment in an optimal fashion and preparing instrumentation, equipment, and sterile supplies for the surgical patient.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Functions as an Instrument Processing Technician under the direction of the Clinical Leader/Registered Nurse.
  • Knowledge of sterilization procedures, aseptic technique, and maintenance and care of instruments and equipment.
  • Knowledge of standards and engages in practices and procedures of sterile technique.
  • Cleans and/or disinfects instruments and equipment after use and returns it to the proper area, in appropriate sequence, for storage and/or processing.
  • Differentiates sterilization and disinfection methods required for specific instruments and equipment.
  • Cleans, wraps, sterilizes, and disinfects instruments and equipment and maintains the functions of the instrument processing area/department.
  • Responsible for crossover duties in other areas such as purchasing supplies and inventory management in proper areas according to facility policy and management guidance.

Qualifications
  • High school graduate or GED required.
  • Understanding of sterilization and high-level disinfection technologies including industry standardized principles and practice in sterilization and disinfection required.
  • Prior experience in instrument processing preferred.
  • Prior experience as a surgical technologist/procedure technologist preferred.
  • Successful completion of BCLS Course within 90 days of employment required or documentation of current BCLS certification.
  • Certification in instrument processing is preferred.
USD $25.00/Hr. USD $38.00/Hr.Qualifications:
  • High school graduate or GED required.
  • Understanding of sterilization and high-level disinfection technologies including industry standardized principles and practice in sterilization and disinfection required.
  • Prior experience in instrument processing preferred.
  • Prior experience as a surgical technologist/procedure technologist preferred.
  • Successful completion of BCLS Course within 90 days of employment required or documentation of current BCLS certification.
  • Certification in instrument processing is preferred.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

What SCA Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom