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Lead Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sterile Processing Tech

Modesto, CA · On-site

$1.2K - $1.3K/wk

Sterile Processing Tech (SPT) Facility: Instrumentam Address: Modesto CA Contract term: 13 Weeks Shift: Nights Hours per day: 8Hrs Guaranteed hours per week : 40Hrs Weekley gross : $1300.00 Company ...

The SPD Tech Lead provides functional direction and training to the SPD Techs and is the Subject ... Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) through Healthcare Sterile Processing ...

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Lead Sterile Processing Tech information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$43

How much do lead sterile processing tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead sterile processing tech in California is $27.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $32.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead sterile processing tech?

A Lead Sterile Processing Tech is a healthcare professional responsible for overseeing the sterilization and preparation of surgical instruments and medical equipment in hospitals or clinics. They supervise sterile processing staff, ensure compliance with safety and sterilization protocols, and help manage inventory and workflow. In addition to performing technical tasks, they often provide training and support to other technicians, and serve as a liaison between the sterile processing department and other hospital departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead sterile processing tech?

To thrive as a Lead Sterile Processing Tech, you need comprehensive knowledge of sterilization procedures, infection control, and decontamination techniques, typically supported by a high school diploma and certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with autoclaves, tracking software, and inventory management systems is crucial for managing surgical instrument workflow. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help coordinate team efforts and maintain compliance with safety standards. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring patient safety, regulatory compliance, and the smooth operation of surgical services.

What are some common challenges lead sterile processing techs face, and how can they effectively address them?

Lead Sterile Processing Techs often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing surgical schedules, maintaining strict compliance with sterilization protocols, and managing team workflow under pressure. Effective communication and organization are key to overcoming these challenges, as is staying current with industry standards and ongoing training. Collaborating closely with surgical teams and hospital staff helps ensure that instruments are processed efficiently and correctly, minimizing delays and supporting patient safety.

What is the difference between Lead Sterile Processing Tech vs Sterile Processing Technician?

AspectLead Sterile Processing TechSterile Processing Technician
CertificationsCPD, CRCST, or CBSPD; often requires leadership experienceCPD, CRCST, or CBSPD; entry to mid-level certification
Work EnvironmentSupervises team, manages workflow in hospital or surgical centerPerforms sterilization and processing tasks in sterile processing department
ResponsibilitiesOversees sterilization processes, trains staff, ensures compliancePrepares, sterilizes, and inspects surgical instruments

The Lead Sterile Processing Tech typically has more leadership duties, oversight responsibilities, and may require additional certifications. They coordinate team efforts and ensure compliance, whereas the Sterile Processing Technician focuses on executing sterilization tasks. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, but the lead position involves more supervisory and organizational responsibilities.

Infographic showing various Lead Sterile Processing Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,437 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Sterile Processing Tech Lead

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

$24.62 - $36.94/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

116th of 1,065 rated hospitals


Job description

Job Brief
1 Opening
Pay Range: STERILE PROCESS TECH LEAD - $24.62 to $36.94
Your Work Here Matters. Your Career Here Thrives.
Imagine coming to work every day knowing that what you do genuinely changes lives. At Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, that's not just a tagline - it's the reality for every member of our team.
We're not just a hospital. We're the heartbeat of the Santa Clarita Valley - a 357-bed, not-for-profit Level II Trauma Center that has been a trusted pillar of this community since 1975. And we're looking for passionate, driven professionals who want to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Where Clinical Excellence Meets Cutting-Edge Care
Here, you'll work alongside an award-winning team delivering some of the most advanced medical services in the region, including:
  • Comprehensive heart and vascular care
  • Advanced stroke treatment
  • Cancer care in partnership with Keck Medicine of USC
  • Women's imaging and breast health services
  • Emergency and trauma care
  • Cardiac rehabilitation and wellness programs

As a key part of Los Angeles County's STEMI receiving network, we provide lifesaving cardiac intervention through our state-of-the-art Roberta G. Veloz Cardiac Cath Lab. We continuously invest in the latest technology and innovation - which means you'll always be working at the forefront of modern medicine.
A Culture You'll Be Proud to Be Part Of
Our vision - To Be the Most Patient-Centric Hospital Anywhere - drives everything we do. But it's our people who make that vision a reality. Physicians, nurses, staff, and volunteers come together here in a culture rooted in compassion, collaboration, and excellence.
When you join Henry Mayo, you're not just accepting a job offer. You're joining a family that genuinely cares - about our patients, our community, and you.
Located in Beautiful Valencia, California
Nestled in the vibrant Santa Clarita Valley, you'll enjoy an exceptional quality of life both inside and outside of work - with top-rated schools, scenic surroundings, and a welcoming community that generations of families proudly call home.
Ready to make your mark? Join the team that's been setting the standard for compassionate, innovative healthcare for nearly 50 years. Your next great chapter starts here.
Job Summary:
The SPD Tech Lead provides functional direction and training to the SPD Techs and is the Subject Matter Expert (SME) responsible for complex decontamination, cleaning, assembling, packaging, sterilization, storage, and distribution of reusable surgical instrumentation and equipment. This position requires certification and demonstrated competency in all aspects of sterile processing operations and is primary point of contact for resolving issues and answering questions. The Lead assists with daily operational activities, training and workflow in collaboration with the SPD Supervisor and Manager.
What You'll Bring to the Team:
• Comprehensive knowledge of sterilization principles and methods
• Extensive knowledge of surgical instrument names, uses, and assembly
• Understanding of sterilizer operations and maintenance
• Knowledge of OSHA, Joint Commission, and AAMI standards
• Proficiency in infection control practices
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Computer proficiency (Meditech experience preferred)
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Leadership and mentoring capabilities

Licensure and Certification:
• Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) through Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), OR Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) through Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) through Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD)
Education:
• High School Graduate or GED equivalent
• Completion of accredited sterile processing technician program OR
• Evidence of extensive on-the-job training in sterile processing
Experience:

• Minimum 3 years of sterile processing experience required
• Experience with all sterilization methods and equipment
• Demonstrated knowledge of surgical instrumentation

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