1

Instrument Technician Sterile Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Sterile Processing Instrument Technician Lead, under general supervision follows robust processes in Decontamination, Processing and Sterilization by cleaning instruments and equipment ensuring ...

The Sterile Processing Instrument Technician Lead, under general supervision follows robust processes in Decontamination, Processing and Sterilization by cleaning instruments and equipment ensuring ...

The Sterile Processing Instrument Technician Lead, under general supervision follows robust processes in Decontamination, Processing and Sterilization by cleaning instruments and equipment ensuring ...

The Sterile Processing Instrument Technician Lead, under general supervision follows robust processes in Decontamination, Processing and Sterilization by cleaning instruments and equipment ensuring ...

Showing results 21-40

Instrument Technician Sterile Processing information

See salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do instrument technician sterile processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument technician sterile processing in the United States is $23.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an instrument technician sterile processing?

Instrument Technician Sterile Processing professionals, also known as Sterile Processing Technicians or Central Sterile Processing Technicians, are responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing medical instruments and equipment used in surgeries and other medical procedures. They ensure that all tools are free of contaminants and properly assembled for use by healthcare providers. Their work is crucial for infection prevention in hospitals and clinics, supporting patient safety and effective healthcare delivery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instrument technician sterile processing?

To thrive as an Instrument Technician in Sterile Processing, you need knowledge of sterilization procedures, infection control, and medical instrumentation, typically backed by a high school diploma and completion of a sterile processing technician program or certification (such as CRCST). Familiarity with sterilizers, autoclaves, tracking software, and quality assurance systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong organizational skills are soft skills that help technicians excel in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring surgical instruments are properly sterilized and available, directly impacting patient safety and surgical outcomes.

What are some common challenges an instrument technician sterile processing might face, and how can they be addressed?

Instrument Technicians in Sterile Processing often encounter challenges such as staying up-to-date with evolving sterilization protocols, managing high workloads during peak surgical periods, and ensuring meticulous attention to detail to prevent contamination. These challenges can be addressed through ongoing training, effective communication with surgical and nursing staff, and strong time-management skills. Many facilities also promote teamwork and mentorship to help new technicians acclimate and maintain high standards of patient safety.

What is the difference between Instrument Technician Sterile Processing vs Operating Room Technician?

AspectInstrument Technician Sterile ProcessingOperating Room Technician
CertificationsCertified Sterile Processing Technician (CBSPD or IAHCSMM)Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentSterile processing departments, hospitals, clinicsOperating rooms, surgical suites
Primary ResponsibilitiesCleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining surgical instrumentsAssisting during surgeries, preparing operating rooms

While both roles support surgical procedures, Instrument Technician Sterile Processing focuses on sterilizing and maintaining surgical instruments, whereas Operating Room Technicians assist directly during surgeries. Certifications differ, but both require knowledge of sterile techniques and work in hospital settings. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to become a sterile instrument technician?

To become a sterile instrument technician, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of a formal training program or certification in sterile processing or surgical technology. On-the-job training is common, and knowledge of sterilization techniques, infection control, and use of sterilizers and cleaning equipment is essential.

Where do instrument technicians sterile processing make the most money?

Instrument technicians in sterile processing tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater healthcare demand, such as metropolitan areas or states with competitive healthcare markets. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in large hospitals or specialized facilities can also increase earning potential.
More about Instrument Technician Sterile Processing jobs

What cities are hiring for Instrument Technician Sterile Processing jobs?

Cities with the most Instrument Technician Sterile Processing job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Instrument Technician Sterile Processing jobs?

The top employers for Instrument Technician Sterile Processing jobs are:

What states have the most Instrument Technician Sterile Processing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Instrument Technician Sterile Processing jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Instrument Technician Sterile Processing jobs?

For Instrument Technician Sterile Processing jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Instrument Technician Sterile Processing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,665 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Instrument Technician - Sterile Processing (SPD)

Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian

Newport Beach, CA • On-site

$21.44 - $40.29/hr

Full-time, Other

Re-posted 25 days ago


Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 1,065 rated hospitals


Job description


Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Responsible for care, cleaning, handling and reprocessing of instruments and equipment. Knowledge of instrumentation blood and body fluid precautions, disinfection techniques, and methods of sterilization. Takes inventory, orders, and stocks supplies within the department. Is responsible for indirect nursing care of patients as related to instrumentation for neonate, child, and adolescent, adult, and geriatric.
Responsible for providing coordination and assembly of surgery case carts. The processes include instrument and inventory management, restocking, proactive identification of supply/instrumentation needs, gathering of supplies needed for a specific case, and assist with O.R. sterilization processes. Knowledge of supplies, instrumentation, disinfection techniques, and methods of sterilization.
Based on experience, Hoag does have a career ladder for Instrument Technicians ranging from level 1 - 5.
Exemption Status
Non-exempt
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full-time, 8 hour shifts
Hours / Pay period (2 weeks)
Available hours: 80 (Full-time)
Schedule Details 2nd shift: 2:30pm - 11:00pm (applicable for shift differential)
3rd shift: 11:00pm - 7:30am (applicable for shift differential)
Shift Differential
Yes, 2nd shift
Yes, 3rd Shift
Responsibilities
  • Operates Decontamination equipment according to established Policy and Procedures and Manufacturer guidelines. Decontaminates and cleans instruments and equipment adhering to hospital policies for universal precautions.
  • Inspects instruments and equipment to insure proper functioning, and notifies supervisor of unserviceable items.
  • Assembles and wraps trays for sterilization following established procedures for completeness, labeling, and documentation.
  • Loads and operates sterilizers according to established policies and procedures, documents the contents and processing information according to departmental policy.
  • Performs quality assurance monitors and documentation for sterilization, including Bowie Dick, biological testing, chemical indicators, according to established policies and procedures.
  • Communicates in timely manner with end user departments when sterilization or supplies are delayed or when a delay is anticipated so that alternative measures can be implemented to support other department's requirements for sterile instruments or supplies.
  • Performs assigned cleaning duties as scheduled to insure a clean and orderly environment.
  • Accurately completes inventory lists for trays and surgeon preference cards, signs, and dates.
  • Responds to requests from OR rooms with urgency and by priority.
  • Anticipates OR nurses needs to prevent any problems from occurring.
  • Writes self-evaluation and is able to recognize areas for growth and improvement. Participates with SPD Manager to plan realistic goals.
  • Works at establishing a good rapport and good working relationship with departments and interdepartmental personnel.
  • Participates in quality improvement activities for departmental and section specific processes.
  • Exercises authority when appropriate, recognizing needs and directing activities to departmental advantage. Uses initiative to resolve problems with appropriate action and follow through, including documentation for Performance Improvement.
  • Consistent scanning in SQ.Track.
  • Consistent log-in/log-out of systems, including but not limited to SQ.Track.
  • Ensure that quality patient care is delivered to all patients on a 24-hour basis, and the unit is maintained in accordance with professional and regulatory standards and the philosophy and goals of Hoag.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education, Training, and Experience Required:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Knowledge of surgical terminology, instrumentation, and supplies.
  • Basic computer skills. Sterile processing experience.

Skills or Other Qualifications Required:
  • Demonstrates effective communication, interpersonal skills, organizational ability, knowledge of proper body mechanics, safety measures and infection prevention.
  • Ability to follow instructions and knowledge of section specific test information and instrumentation may be required.

License or Certifications Preferred:
  • HSPA CRCST certification (Certification for levels 4 and 5 required) or CBSPD certification.

What Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian logo

About Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian, located in Newport Beach, CA, US, is a leading health care provider within the healthcare industry. Their official website is hoag.org. Hoag is a nonprofit, regional health care delivery network in Orange County, California, that treats over 30,000 inpatients and 450,000 outpatients annually. Founded in 1952, the hospital has stood as a pillar of health in the community for over six decades. Committed to providing the highest quality care to patients, Hoag offers a range of comprehensive services including cancer care, women's health services, heart and vascular service, orthopedics, neurosciences and spine care.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Newport Beach, CA, US