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Entry Level Sterile Processing Jobs in Portland, OR

Dental Expressions

Dental assistant

Lake Oswego, OR

$25 - $30/hr

... Sterilize and prepare dental instruments between procedures Breakdown and set up operatories ... highly desirable Entry-level dental assistants with relevant training and certifications are ...

All JobsSterile Processing JobsEntry Level Sterile Processing JobsEntry Level Sterile Processing Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Sterile Processing information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$29

$46

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing in Portland, OR is $29.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $35.19 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs in Portland, OR are:
Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,646 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Lead Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing)

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Portland, OR • On-site

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

The Lead Medical Supply Technician is responsible for the lead duties in the Sterile Processing Service. Incumbent must be able to direct and lead SPS personnel and communicate effectively to ensure user unit needs are met on a consistent basis. Must be organized and detail oriented to provide direction to Medical Supply Technicians GS-0622-3/4/5/6 as to complete tasks in a timely accurate manner.Qualifications:Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements:
  • United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
  • Experience and/or Education
    1. Experience. Six months of experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides an understanding of the work; or
    2. Education. One year above high school that included at least 6 semester hours in health care related courses such as sterile processing, nursing assistant, hospital corpsman, and operating room and surgical technician courses or other courses related to the position; or
    3. Experience/Education Combination. Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable.
    4. English Language Proficiency. MSTs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3j, this part.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Grade Determinations:The following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates.
GS-07 Lead Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing)
  • Experience. One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
  • Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
    1. Ability to instruct staff on the correct procedures and protocols for completing assignments.
    2. Skill in communicating with staff to ensure compliance with written directives, rules and regulations.
    3. Skill in interpersonal relationships in dealing with employees, team leaders, and managers.
    4. Knowledge of sterility principles in order to instruct staff on decontamination procedures.
    5. Ability to lead individuals, manage priorities, and schedule work assignments.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-7.
Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.Education:Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER

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