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Entry Level Sterile Processing Jobs in Riverside, CA

Dental assistant

Corona, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

This is a great opportunity for both entry-level candidates and experienced assistants looking for ... process dental X-rays ✔ Perform basic lab tasks (models, trays) ✔ Maintain sterilization and ...

Dental assistant

Mira Loma, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Safety & Sterilization: Maintain rigorous infection control standards through aseptic techniques ... Hiring Process [1] Please apply through the Jobley application form ↓ [2] A recruiter will ...

Entry Level Sterile Processing information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$28

$45

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

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sterile processing in Riverside, CA is $28.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $34.62 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 Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Sterile Processing jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Sterile Processing job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,660 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Temporary Sterile Processing Technician I

County of Riverside

Riverside, CA • On-site

$41K/yr

Temporary

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

For questions regarding this position, please contact the Recruiter listed in the Supplemental Information section. ABOUT THE POSITION The County of Riverside's Human Resources Temporary Assignment Program (TAP) is seeking a Temporary Sterile Processing Technician I to support Riverside University Health System, Medical Center, in Moreno Valley. Under close supervision, cleans, sterilizes, prepares, and issues medical instruments, equipment and supplies; performs minor maintenance and repairs on medical equipment; and performs other related duties as required.

The Sterile Processing Technician I is the entry level classification in the Sterile Processing Technician series and reports to the Supervising Sterile Processing Technician, Sterile Processing Manager or equivalent level manager. Incumbents receive initial training in the techniques and procedures essential to the classification's duties. The Sterile Processing Technician I is distinguished from the Sterile Processing Technician II in that the latter is the fully qualified journey level in the series.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge of cleaning procedures, be comfortable with extensive walking, and be able to pull heavy carts. Work schedule: 12 hour shifts 7am-7pm Monday-Sunday, or 12 hour shifts 7pm-7am Monday-Sunday Meet the Team. Riverside University Health System-Medical Center consistently receives national recognition for its progressive and innovative care, as well as being known as one of the top employers in the region.

The 439-bed Medical Center is a designated Stroke Center, Level II Trauma Center, and the only Pediatric ICU in the region. Can you see yourself here. For more information on RUHS-Medical Center, please visitwww.ruhealth.org

About TAP The Temporary Assignment Program (TAP) recruits and hires temporary employees for all County departments. TAP assignments are a great way to learn about working for the County while working on a temporary, at-will basis. Click here to learn more about TAP: https://rc-hr.com/temporary-medical-assignment-program-tapmap TAP Benefits: https://rc-hr.com/files/users/user116/COR_2026_TAP_Guide_FINAL.pdf(Download PDF reader)(Download PDF reader) EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES Inspect, test, clean, decontaminate, and sterilize returned reusable medical equipment and surgical equipment, supplies and instrumentation, ensuring all parts have been returned and are operable, selecting appropriate cleaning agents and decontamination and sterilization processes; perform minor maintenance and repairs on medical equipment as needed

Identify and assemble medical and surgical instrumentation and supplies using count sheets; package in accordance with sterilization technique to be used; generate and attach labels and billing codes; sterilize, and if required, aerate. Assemble instruments and supplies for surgery or case/specialty cart procedures using pick lists; distribute sterilized supplies and patient care equipment, maintaining required inventory levels throughout hospital and clinics; check correctness of requisitions and accuracy of inventory and issue supplies; issue prescribed medical supplies and equipment to patients. Create and maintain accurate equipment tracking, inventory, sterilization, and testing records and logs using a computer, laser wand, or scanner for barcode entry; run reports.

Store and maintain all sterile supplies and respiratory therapy equipment; stock and maintain processing areas; clean and test sterilizers; keep storage areas clean and orderly; inspect, fold and stack sterilized linen. Ensure that department policies and procedures are followed. Provide vacation and temporary relief as required.

Equipment pick-ups, delivery, and cleaning (including IV pumps, epidural pumps crash carts) MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: Graduation from high school, possession of a Certificate of Proficiency issued by the California State Board of Education, or attainment of a satisfactory score on a G.E.D. examination. Experience: None required

Knowledge of: The more common medical equipment and instruments used in a hospital setting. Ability to: Learn aseptic and sterile techniques; learn the terminology of parts and supplies associated with area of assignment; follow oral and written directions; work cooperatively with others; keep simple records. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Other Requirements Possession of a valid California Driver's License may be required.

What's Next?Open to All Applicants This recruitment is open to all applicants. For questions regarding this recruitment Please contact Carolina Pichardo at 951-955-3138 or at cpichardo@rivco.org. For general inquiries, please allow up to 2 business days to receive a response

________________________________________________________________________________________ APPLICATION INFORMATION Veteran's Preference The County has a Veterans Preference Policy applicable to new hires. To qualify, attach the required documents to your job application. Documents include a copy of your (or your spouse's) Member-4 Form DD-214 indicating dates of service.

For spousal preference, and as applicable, the following documents: a copy of your marriage certificate, spouse's death certificate, a letter of spouse's disability and/or letter of service-related death (if available) from the U.S. Veteran's Administration. For privacy reasons, it is recommended that you remove your social security information from the document(s)

A Human Resources Representative will review the materials and determine if you qualify for veterans' preference. For complete details and documentation requirements, please review the Veterans Preference Policy, C-3 here: https://rivcocob.org/board-policies Reasonable Accommodations The County of Riverside is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Qualified individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process should contact the recruiter for the position noted above

For additional information and/or to obtain the appropriate form for requesting a reasonable accommodation, please visit the Disability Access Office web page located at: https://rc-hr.com/disability Work Location and Telework In-person attendance is the standard work expectation for County of Riverside assignments. Certain assignments may be eligible for a hybrid telework schedule; however, telework arrangements are subject to management approval, operational needs, and/or may be modified or discontinued at any time. Employees who telework are expected to be able to report to their assigned worksite on short notice or as operational needs require

Unless otherwise specified for a particular position, employees are expected to reside in California following appointment. Limited exceptions may apply. Applicants should contact the assigned recruiter for additional information regarding work location expectations, telework eligibility, and residency requirements.

Proof of Education If using education to qualify or when requested by the recruiter, upload a copy of any license(s), official/unofficial transcript(s), degrees, and/or related employment documents to your NeoGov account at the time of application and before the closing date. Official or unofficial transcripts will be accepted. If your education was completed outside of the United States, you will need to provide a copy of your Foreign Education Equivalency evaluation from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc.

(AICE). Work Authorization Requirement Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application. The County of Riverside does not participate in visa sponsorship programs, including H1-B visas, and will not provide sponsorship for any employment-based visas.

Equal Opportunity Employer The County of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the County of Riverside to provide equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition (cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, or denial of medical and family care leave, or any other non-job-related factors.

Pre-Employment All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment requirements including a criminal background investigation, which involves fingerprinting. (A felony or misdemeanor conviction may disqualify the applicant from County employment). A pre-employment physical examination and background check may be required.

Probationary Period As an Approved Local Merit System, all County of Riverside employees, except those serving "At Will," are subject to the probationary period provisions as specified in the applicable Memorandum of Understanding, County Resolution, or Salary Ordinance. Temporary and Per Diem employees serve at the pleasure of the agency/department head. General Information Current County of Riverside and/or current employees of the hiring department may receive priority consideration.

Qualified candidates may be considered for future County vacancies. Job postings may close without notice based on application volume. Submit your complete application by the recruitment close date; no late applications are accepted.

Ensure all relevant experience/education is reflected on your application/resume, as a failure to demonstrate position requirements may disqualify applicants. A description of job duties directly copied from the job classification or job posting will not be considered. Please read and follow any special application instructions on this posting.

Click the 'Apply' link located on this page to submit your application. For additional instructions on the application process, examinations, Veteran's preference, pre-employment accommodation or other employment questions, please refer to our web site, www.rc-hr.com. If you are experiencing technical problems, you may contact the governmentjobs.com applicant support desk Monday through Friday, 6 am to 5 pm Pacific Time at support@governmentjobs.com or toll-free 1-855-524-5627.