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Entry Level Sterile Processing Jobs in Washington

Whether you are an experienced professional or a high-potential entry-level candidate, we provide ... Prepare treatment rooms, organize sterile instruments, and set up materials required for daily ...

Whether you are an experienced professional or a high-potential entry-level candidate, we provide ... Prepare treatment rooms, organize sterile instruments, and set up materials required for daily ...

Sterilization: Ensure all dental instruments and treatment rooms are sterilized and disinfected ... Preferences Entry-Level Candidates Welcome: We are happy to welcome recent graduates or those new ...

Dental hygienist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$68 - $75/hr

... sterilization Utilize intraoral cameras and take digital radiographs Educate and communicate ... (entry-level candidates with strong skills considered) Excellent communication and patient ...

Dental hygienist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$68 - $75/hr

... sterilization Utilize intraoral cameras and take digital radiographs Educate and communicate ... (entry-level candidates with strong skills considered) Excellent communication and patient ...

Sterilization: Ensure all dental instruments and treatment rooms are sterilized and disinfected ... Hiring Process [1] Please apply through the Jobley application form ↓ [2] A recruiter will ...

Entry Level Sterile Processing information

See Washington salary details

$15

$31

$49

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

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing in Washington is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $37.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,769 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Surgical Technologist Instructor

Howard Community College

Columbia, MD • On-site

$44 - $50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
About Us
Howard Community College (HCC) is an exciting place to work, learn, and grow! We are proud to have received the Great Colleges to Work For honor for 12 consecutive years, 2009-2020.
Howard Community College values diversity among its faculty, staff and student population. We are an innovative institution that is committed to responding to the ever-changing needs and interests of a diverse and dynamic community. No matter where you want to go in your career, you can get there from here!
Position Title
Surgical Technologist Instructor
FLSA
Non-Exempt
FT/PT
Part Time
Hours Per Week
Up to 25
Work Schedule
Monday-Friday
Position Salary Range
$44-50 hourly
Summary
The Surgical Technologist Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality instruction to students enrolled in the Surgical Technologist Training Program. This role includes teaching classroom theory, lab skills, and clinical competencies aligned with national certification standards and Maryland healthcare regulations. The instructor fosters a supportive learning environment that prepares students for entry-level roles in surgical services and promotes success in the operating room setting.
Essential Role Responsibilities
• Develop and deliver engaging curriculum aligned with national surgical technology standards and Maryland workforce requirements.
• Teach classroom, lab, and clinical components of the Surgical Technologist program.
• Utilize the learning management system (LMS), Canvas, to facilitate online and hybrid learning.
• Evaluate student performance through written exams, skill demonstrations, and clinical assessments.
• Maintain accurate student records, attendance, and grading through Canvas.
• Ensure compliance with state and national regulations governing surgical technology education.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to support student learning and program development. • Provide mentorship and guidance to students pursuing careers in surgical services.
• Participate in professional development and maintain current licensure and certifications.
Minimum Education Required
Experience Required
• Must hold one of the following:
- Current Maryland Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing with no disciplinary actions, with recent operating room experience.
- Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential through NBSTSA or NCCT, with active certification and operating room experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of recent experience in surgical services or operating room settings.
• Previous teaching or training experience is strongly preferred.
• Completion or readiness to complete instructional preparation (e.g., Train the Trainer or equivalent) to teach at Howard Community College.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to student success and academic excellence.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience teaching in secondary education, community college, or adult education settings.
• Familiarity with online learning platforms and instructional technology.
• Experience with sterile processing, perioperative safety, or interdisciplinary surgical teams.
Minimum and Preferred Qualifications
Physical Demand Summary
Division
Workforce, Career, & Community Education
Department
Workforce Career & Community Education
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
NB242P
Number of Vacancies
3
Best Consideration Date
08/28/2026
Job Open Date
03/05/2026
Job Close Date
Continuous Recruitment?
Applicant Instructions
*Pre-employment criminal background investigation is a condition of employment.
HCC is interested in all qualified applicants who are eligible to work in the United States. However, HCC will generally not sponsor applicants for work visas. Due to HCC policy, only employees living in states contiguous to Maryland are eligible for work at HCC and include Virginia, West Virginia, Washington DC, Pennsylvania. Candidates must live in the commutable area or willing to relocate at their own expense if offered the position because HCC does not offer relocation benefits.
Please complete the entire HCC Employment Application (Candidates will be evaluated on completing the college's application in full).
Quick Link for Internal Postings
https://howardcc.peopleadmin.com/postings/5386
EEO Statement
Howard Community College (HCC) is an Equal Employment Opportunity & Affirmative Action employer & values diversity within its faculty, staff & student population. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.
HCC understands that persons with specific disabilities may need assistance with the job application process and/or with the interview process. For confidential assistance with the job application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at 443-518-1100.

Howard Community College logo

About Howard Community College

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howard Community College (HCC) is an exciting place to work, learn, and grow! We are proud to have received the Great Colleges to Work For honor for 12 consecutive years, 2009-2020. Howard Community College values diversity among its faculty, staff and student population. We are an innovative institution that is committed to responding to the ever-changing needs and interests of a diverse and dynamic community. No matter where you want to go in your career, you can get there from here!

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, MD, US

Year founded

1966