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Entry Level Sterile Processing Jobs in Tennessee

Steris Corporation

Repair Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

This is an entry level job - we will train you! * In this position, you will perform surgical ... sterile processing, industrial sewing, and jewelry repair. Maintenance, construction, welding ...

Innovate 32

Registered Dental Assistant I

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

... an entry-level clinical assistant who builds on sterile tech fundamentals to begin actively ... Take and process dental radiographs accurately and in compliance with state regulations and ...

Innovate 32

Registered Dental Assistant I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

... an entry-level clinical assistant who builds on sterile tech fundamentals to begin actively ... Take and process dental radiographs accurately and in compliance with state regulations and ...

Innovate 32

Registered Dental Assistant I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

... an entry-level clinical assistant who builds on sterile tech fundamentals to begin actively ... Take and process dental radiographs accurately and in compliance with state regulations and ...

Mayfield Dairy Farms

CIP OPERATOR

Athens, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Ensure products and processes are clean and sterile by following regulatory standards and established Company policies and procedures. Job Duties and Responsibilities * Assemble and disassemble ...

Dairiconcepts, L.P.

CIP OPERATOR

Athens, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Ensure products and processes are clean and sterile by following regulatory standards and established Company policies and procedures. Job Duties and Responsibilities * Assemble and disassemble ...

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All JobsSterile Processing JobsEntry Level Sterile Processing JobsEntry Level Sterile Processing Jobs in Tennessee

Entry Level Sterile Processing information

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$12

$24

$39

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

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing in Tennessee is $24.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is sterile processing tech an entry level job?

Sterile processing technicians typically qualify for entry-level positions, as the role often requires minimal prior experience and can be learned on the job. Many employers provide training, and certifications such as the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) can enhance job prospects. Basic skills include attention to detail, knowledge of sterilization procedures, and familiarity with medical equipment cleaning tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Sterile Processing Technician, and why are they important?

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.

How to start a sterile processing career?

To start a sterile processing career, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a sterile processing training program or certification, such as the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST). Gaining hands-on experience in a healthcare environment and understanding sterilization procedures, infection control, and the use of sterilization equipment are essential steps to entering this field.

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 tech?

Getting hired as a sterile processing technician can be competitive, but entry-level positions are often available for those with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant certifications, such as the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), can improve job prospects, and familiarity with sterilization equipment and infection control procedures is beneficial.

Will sterile processing be replaced by AI?

Sterile processing technicians play a crucial role in cleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining surgical instruments, and while AI and automation are increasingly used for inventory management and tracking, the core tasks require human oversight and manual skills. AI is unlikely to fully replace sterile processing jobs soon, but it may enhance efficiency and accuracy in certain aspects of the workflow. Certification and attention to safety standards remain essential for this role.

What are entry level sterile processing technicians?

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 most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee? For Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings:
Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 67% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,903 per year, or $25 per hour.
Repair Technician

Repair Technician

Steris Corporation

Nashville, TN • On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

STERIS rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Position Summary
  • When surgical instruments are sharpened and working properly, surgeons can focus on providing the best care for their patients. STERIS offers a variety of repair solutions to meet the needs of the Customer including onsite mobile repair services, in house repair lab services, or one of five national repair centers.
  • You do not have to have previous instrument repair experience to be considered. This is an entry level job - we will train you!
  • In this position, you will perform surgical instrument inspection, repair, and refurbishment in both a repair lab and in a field-based setting (driving and working in a mobile repair truck). Technicians deliver superior Customer Experience by providing timely and quality repairs to meet compliance standards.
  • This position may require occasional overnight travel.
  • This role requires daily travel by driving a company vehicle. If offered this position, STERIS will run a 7 year driving record check, as part of our onboarding process.
  • Location Note: On field service days, your commute will be to and from our truck storage facility in Hermitage. On repair lab days, you will be working in our repair lab on the north end of Nashville (near Skyline Hospital).

What You Will Do as a Repair Technician
  • Perform basic to intermediate inspection and repairs on surgical instrumentation using grinding wheels, buffing wheels, various hand and power tools, soldering, etc. Complexity of repairs and level of intricacy will vary.
  • You will work in the field on a mobile repair truck, inside a repair lab or inside a hospital, based on the needs of the Customer within the assigned territory.
  • Provide invoicing and documentation based on business need.
  • Provide support various locations within assigned territory depending on the service agreements, Customer needs, and staffing levels.

What STERIS Offers
We value our employees and are committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, well-being and financial future.
Here is a brief overview of what we offer:
  • Extensive hands-on training and development
  • Career progression path with STERIS Instrument Management Services and growth opportunities in other parts of STERIS
  • Competitive pay + quarterly incentive plan
  • Overtime opportunity
  • Annual merit review
  • Medical, vision, prescription, dental and life insurance
  • 401(k) with a company match
  • Paid time off that accrues from day one and paid holidays
  • Tuition assistance
  • Uniforms and all necessary tools provided
  • Business travel and all related expenses paid

The Experience, Skills, and Abilities Needed
• High school diploma or GED required
• At least 1 year of relevant experience*, or 1 year of experience at STERIS. All experience must be verifiable.
• Must be able to meet flexible schedules with early/late hours and occasional overnight/out of state travel, based on Customer and business needs.
• Must be able to pass a DOT medical/ physical exam and comply with all DOT regulations.
• Must have a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record (CDL not required) and maintain required vaccines.
• Ability to drive DOT regulated vehicle and conduct basic box truck safety checks.
• Must be at least 21 years old to meet the FMCSA age requirement for commercial interstate driving.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times and push instrument carts ranging from 10-150 pounds at times.
• Must be able to be compliant with hospital/customer credentialing requirements
*What is relevant work experience?
• Hands-on repair, assembly, or product testing and use of small hand tools is a plus. Examples are small engine repair, cell phone and electronics repair, testing, or re-builds, carpentry, circuit board assembly and repair, sterile processing, industrial sewing, and jewelry repair. Maintenance, construction, welding, fabrication, and automotive repair can also be relevant.
Pay range for this opportunity is $21.50 - $24.00. This position is eligible for bonus participation.
Minimum pay rates offered will comply with county/city minimums, if higher than range listed. Pay rates are based on a number of factors, including but not limited to local labor market costs, years of relevant experience, education, professional certifications, foreign language fluency, etc.
STERIS offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits portfolio. Click here for a complete list of benefits: STERIS Benefits
Open until position is filled.
STERIS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity to ensure that persons are recruited, hired, trained, transferred and promoted in all job groups regardless of race, color, religion, age, disability, national origin, citizenship status, military or veteran status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal, state or local law. We are not only committed to this policy by our status as a federal government contractor, but also we are strongly bound by the principle of equal employment opportunity.

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