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Entry Level Sterile Processing Jobs in Tennessee

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

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 ...

Guida's Dairy

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 ...

Iff

Laboratory Analyst III

Memphis, TN · On-site

... the entry level under close supervision performing routine tasks in processing or preparing ... Calibrate, clean, sterilize, and maintain all appropriate equipment and work areas * Prepare ...

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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 18, 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:
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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.
CIP OPERATOR

CIP OPERATOR

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

Athens, TN • On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Dairy Farmers Of America rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 163 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 58 rated farming

Job description

General Purpose

Complete proper clean up and sanitation tasks to ensure optimum quality products. 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 equipment for proper cleaning/sanitizing per manufacturer instructions
  • Operate the CIP (clean-in-place) system to clean and sanitize equipment, tanks, and pipelines
  • Complete basic preventive maintenance of gaskets, seals, "O" rings, plates, etc., on all product contact surfaces as needed by the Master Sanitation Schedule
  • Complete record keeping items such as, but not limited to, identifying cleaning cycle times on charts, measuring cleaning concentration, examining flow rates, assessing heat up temperature, and sanitizing by chemical strengths
  • Perform the basic housekeeping to include clean floors, walls, ceiling, air vents, lights, etc., of the plant, equipment, and exterior of all equipment
  • Accomplish pre-operations check on all product contact surfaces including pumps, valves, agitators, alcoves, and clamps before starting up
  • Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties
  • Collect required samples needed for quality assurance testing
  • Ensure all paperwork is filled out in a clear, legible, and accurate format and completed with required information
  • Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with SOP's
  • Utilizing continuous improvement mindset, assist in identifying opportunities to improve processes
  • Report any food safety and food quality related issues to management immediately
  • Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
  • Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
  • The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required.Other duties may be assigned as required

Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Warehouse, production, or general work experience preferred
  • Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Able to effectively work in a team environment
  • Able to legibly write entries for record keeping
  • Able to use company computer systems
  • Able to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
  • Able to follow directions
  • Able to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans

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