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Entry Level Sterile Processing Jobs in Chicago, IL

Dental Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

The DA1 is an entry level position responsible for chairside assisting to dental providers ... Provides instrumentation by working with Central Sterile Processing to sterilize and deliver ...

... Take and process dental x-rays adhering to safety protocols Educate patients on oral hygiene ... infection control and sterilization procedures Salary Range Full-time $38 - $42 per hour ...

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 ...

Entry Level Sterile Processing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$28

$45

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing in Chicago, IL is $28.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $34.18 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,910 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Clinical Research Coordinator I - Oral Health Research Staff

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$25 - $33.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

165th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department
BSD MED - Center for Health and the Social Sciences - Oral Health Research Staff
About the Department
The Center for Health and the Social Sciences (CHeSS), founded in 2005, strives to continue the legacy at the University of Chicago for being a leader in both research and training at the intersection of health and the social sciences. We foster innovation and collaboration, as well as excellence in research, scholarship, and training. CHeSS staff supports the writing and submission of grant applications and fundraising proposals, brainstorms and coordinates new research initiatives and projects, and provides expert research methods consultation during formative and operational phases of work. CHeSS programs work closely with the Section of Hospital Medicine on multiple clinical research studies.
Job Summary
The position is a Clinical Research Coordinator I - Oral Health Research Staff (CRCI) for POH and other clinical research studies. The Clinical Research Coordinator I - Oral Health Research Staff (CRCI) is an entry level researcher working with the Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. David Meltzer, Co-Investigator(s) and other study personnel, to support and provide guidance on the administration of the compliance, financial and other related aspects of the clinical study. In addition to CRC1, the position will also serve as a Dental Assistant (DA1) at The University of Chicago Medicine (UCM) Dental Research Study Clinic and will be responsible for chairside assisting to dental providers providing dental care to patients at the University of Chicago Medicine (UCM) Dental Research Study Clinic at its main campus in Hyde Park as well as other study sites, including mobile dental units.
Responsibilities
  • Supports, facilitates and coordinates daily study activities while working with investigators and other staff.
  • Educates patients about study procedures to be performed, the study visit schedule, what to report between and during visits, and the risks and benefits of the procedures.
  • Plans and coordinates the schedule for study non-clinical visits and activities.
  • With guidance from study protocols, investigators, and staff, conducts screening and informed consent for potential study enrollees, administer study questionnaires/surveys with study enrollees, collect intraoral images of study enrollees.
  • Protects patients and data confidentiality by ensuring security of research data and personal health information and compliance with federal regulations and sponsor protocols.
  • Prepares for or participate in quality assurance audits under supervision or following specific protocol procedures.
  • Participates in study-related documentation, such as protocol worksheets, procedural manuals, adverse event reports, institutional review board documents, or progress reports.
  • Recruit participants for other clinical research studies.
  • Provides services at UCM Dental Research Study Clinic as well as affiliated study sites including mobile dental units across Chicagoland area.
  • Helps patients feel comfortable before, during, and after dental treatment.
  • Prepares patient for dental treatment by welcoming, comforting, seating, and draping patient.
  • Schedules clinical appointments with patients in person and over the phone.
  • Asks about the patient's medical history, blood pressure, and pulse.
  • Documents measurements and treatments in the electronic dental record. Positions and passes instruments for dentist's access.
  • Suctions patient saliva and debris during treatments.
  • Maintains patient confidence by keeping information confidential.
  • Provides patients with instructions for oral self-care following dental treatments.
  • Teaches patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health; (e.g., tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling).
  • Provides information to patients and employees by answering questions and requests.
  • Prepares treatment room for patient by following prescribed procedures and protocols.
  • Adheres to infection control and sterilization procedures and prepare instruments and equipment.
  • Provides instrumentation by working with Central Sterile Processing to sterilize and deliver instruments to treatment area.
  • Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
  • Maintains dental supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies.
  • Available to work evening and weekend shifts as well.
  • Available to work at various UCM service areas and different locations across Chicagoland region, including South, West and North suburbs.
  • Accountable for all tasks in basic clinical studies.
  • Uses knowledge of clinical studies to coordinate the collection of analyzable clinical research data and/or samples.
  • Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
---
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree.

Experience:
  • Knowledge of medical terminology/environment.

Preferred Competencies
  • Work independently and as part of a team.
  • Commitment to providing a high level of service and high degree of professionalism.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Communicate with tact and diplomacy.
  • Absorb large amounts of information quickly.
  • Handle multiple tasks simultaneously and under tight deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and organizational skills.

Application Documents
  • Resume (required)
  • Cover Letter (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Research
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Drug Test Required
Yes
Health Screen Required
Yes
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Pay Rate Type
Salary
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Range
$50,000.00 - $65,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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