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Entry Level Sterile Processing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

... - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 ... Given relevant skills, interest, and experience, the applicant may also engage in processing drone ...

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

... - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 ... Given relevant skills, interest, and experience, the applicant may also engage in processing drone ...

Laboratory Assistant

Crete, IL · On-site

$16.50/hr

... sterile and safe work environment. Essential Functions and Responsibilities • Maintain clean ... YOUR PROFILE Qualifications Required • High school diploma or GED. Entry-level position. This ...

Lab Aide

Campus, IL

$14.75 - $20.50/hr

In your cover letter or during your interview process, we invite you to share how your professional ... PCR, immunofluorescence and immunoblotting Maintains laboratory stocks of sterile microfuge tubes ...

Lab Aide

Campus, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $20.50/hr

In your cover letter or during your interview process, we invite you to share how your professional ... PCR, immunofluorescence and immunoblotting Maintains laboratory stocks of sterile microfuge tubes ...

Lab Aide

Campus, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $20.50/hr

In your cover letter or during your interview process, we invite you to share how your professional ... PCR, immunofluorescence and immunoblotting Maintains laboratory stocks of sterile microfuge tubes ...

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 ... Ensure all laboratory equipment and work areas are clean, sterile, and in proper working order. May ...

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 ... Ensure all laboratory equipment and work areas are clean, sterile, and in proper working order. May ...

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 ... Ensure all laboratory equipment and work areas are clean, sterile, and in proper working order. May ...

Showing results 21-36

Entry Level Sterile Processing information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$26

$42

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing in Illinois is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $32.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level sterile processing technician?

Entry level sterile processing technicians are healthcare workers responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing medical instruments and equipment for use in hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers. They ensure that all tools are free from contaminants to prevent infection and maintain patient safety. These technicians typically work behind the scenes in sterile processing departments and follow strict protocols to handle instruments properly. Entry level positions usually require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is often provided, though certification can improve job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level sterile processing technician?

To thrive as an Entry Level Sterile Processing Technician, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, attention to detail, and basic understanding of infection control procedures. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilization equipment, and inventory management systems is typically required, along with certification such as the CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) being highly valued. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you excel in this role. These qualities ensure that all surgical instruments and medical equipment are properly sterilized, supporting patient safety and smooth healthcare operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level sterile processing technicians, and how can I prepare for them?

As an entry-level sterile processing technician, you may encounter challenges such as keeping up with a fast-paced workflow, learning the intricacies of various medical instruments, and maintaining strict adherence to sterilization protocols. It's important to have strong attention to detail, as even small errors can impact patient safety. To prepare, familiarize yourself with infection control standards, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and stay organized to efficiently handle instrument trays and documentation. Working collaboratively with surgical teams and communicating proactively will also help you succeed in this essential healthcare role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Sterile Processing vs Entry Level Surgical Technologist?

AspectEntry Level Sterile ProcessingEntry Level Surgical Technologist
CertificationsCPR, Sterile Processing Certification (e.g., CBSPD, IAHCSMM)Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentSterile processing departments, hospitals, clinicsOperating rooms, surgical suites
Job DutiesCleaning, sterilizing, and distributing surgical instrumentsAssisting during surgeries, passing instruments, maintaining sterile field

Entry Level Sterile Processing and Entry Level Surgical Technologist roles share certifications like CPR but differ in daily tasks and work environments. Sterile Processing focuses on instrument sterilization, while Surgical Technologists assist directly in surgeries. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, but they serve different functions within the surgical team.

Is it hard to get hired as a sterile processing technician?

Getting hired as a sterile processing technician can be straightforward for those with relevant certifications and basic technical skills, as many healthcare facilities seek entry-level staff. Prior experience is not always required, but knowledge of sterilization procedures and equipment can improve job prospects. The role often offers on-the-job training and a stable work environment, making entry easier for motivated candidates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% 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 $55,415 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Laboratory Technicians

University of Utah

Campus, IL • On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 619 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Details
Open Date 07/28/2026 Requisition Number PRN45738B Job Title Laboratory Technicians Working Title Laboratory Technician-Wang Lab Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S3 - Skilled, S2 - Intermediate, S1 - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary
TBD
VP Area Academic Affairs Department 00116 - School of Biological Sciences Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range $17 - $23 per hour Close Date 09/29/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary
Applicants are sought to fill a full-time position as Laboratory/Field Technician in the Dynamic Carbon and Ecosystems Lab (DYCE Lab; www.dycelab.net). The successful candidate will bring skills, experience, and/or interest in remote sensing, global ecology, geospatial software, field work, and drone technology. At a minimum, the successful applicant will be expected to contribute to coordinating field equipment, organizing and managing a dry lab environment, managing lab datasets, and assisting various researchers with their projects. Given relevant skills, interest, and experience, the applicant may also engage in processing drone-based remote sensing data to generate maps of ecosystem structure and composition, planning and conducting field campaigns in mountain and desert environments, and potentially leading research projects.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
Responsibilities
Perform laboratory tests, experiments, and analyses. Prepare and weigh samples for testing and analysis. Conduct tests, assays, and other protocols under the direction of a laboratory services manager, physician, nurse, or scientist. Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs). Ensure all laboratory equipment and work areas are clean, sterile, and in proper working order. May be responsible for calibration of instruments. Senior-level support role. Completes assignments with little supervision. May assist less-experienced team members.
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

Laboratory Technician, I: Requires little to no related experience.

Laboratory Technician, II: Requires at least 1 year of related experience.

Laboratory Technician, III: Requires 3+ years of related experience.
Preferences
  • Master's degree in Environmental Science, Geography, Ecology, or related fields.
  • Experience conducting field work, piloting drones, or processing drone data
  • Advanced GIS skills
  • Driver's License
  • Programming experience in R, Python, or similar languages
Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah NonDiscrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu

https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

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About University of Utah

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US