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How much do sterile core tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile core tech in the United States is $26.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sterile Core Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sterile Core Tech, you need a solid understanding of sterilization techniques, infection control, and medical equipment handling, often supported by a high school diploma and certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilization tracking systems, and inventory management software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential to ensure patient safety, prevent infections, and maintain efficient surgical and clinical operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Sterile Core Techs in a hospital setting?

Sterile Core Techs often encounter the challenge of managing a fast-paced workflow, especially during peak surgical hours when multiple procedures require sterile instruments simultaneously. They must maintain strict attention to detail to ensure all equipment is properly sterilized and assembled according to protocol, as any lapse can impact patient safety. Additionally, Sterile Core Techs frequently collaborate with surgical teams, requiring clear communication and adaptability to address urgent needs or last-minute changes. Managing inventory and staying updated with new sterilization techniques are also important aspects of the role.

What does a Sterile Core Tech do?

A Sterile Core Tech, also known as a Sterile Processing Technician, is responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing medical instruments and equipment in healthcare settings. They ensure that all surgical tools and supplies are properly disinfected and safe for use in medical procedures. This role is vital for preventing infections and supporting the smooth operation of operating rooms and other clinical areas.

What is the difference between Sterile Core Tech vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSterile Core TechSurgical Technologist
CertificationsCertified Surgical Tech (CST) often preferredCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, sterile environmentsOperating rooms, surgical settings, hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing sterile fields, sterilizing equipment, assisting during surgeriesSetting up operating rooms, passing instruments, maintaining sterile conditions

Both Sterile Core Tech and Surgical Technologists work in sterile surgical environments, assisting in surgeries and preparing equipment. The main difference lies in job titles and specific responsibilities, but certifications and work settings overlap significantly.

Infographic showing various Sterile Core Tech job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,128 per year, or $26 per hour.
Sterile Processing Technician Associate

Sterile Processing Technician Associate

Allina Health

Coon Rapids, MN • On-site

$21.24 - $29.82/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Allina Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 258 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 865 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Location Address:
4050 Coon Rapids Blvd NWCoon Rapids, MN 55433-2522
Date Posted:
May 21, 2026
Department:
38018470 Mercy Sterile Processing
Shift:
Evening/Night (United States of America)
Shift Length:
8 hour shift
Hours Per Week:
40
Union Contract:
SEIU-4-Mercy Service Workers-SMC
Weekend Rotation:
Occasional
Job Summary:
Allina Health is a not-for-profit health system that cares for individuals, families and communities throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin. If you value putting patients first, consider a career at Allina Health. Our mission is to provide exceptional care as we prevent illness, restore health and provide comfort to all who entrust us with their care. This includes you and your loved ones. We are committed to providing whole person care, investing in your well-being, and enriching your career.
Key Position Details:
  • 1.0 FTE (80 hours per two-week pay period)
  • 8-hour evening/night shifts
  • Occasional weekends

Job Description:
Orientation and training provided for up to one year to learn sterile processing. This training includes decontamination, cleaning, sterilization and processing of supplies and equipment, following guidelines from federal and state agencies, manufacturer and hospital infection control. Provides opportunity to learn and complete tasks in preparation for certification examination.
Principle Responsibilities
  • Demonstrates skill in preparation of surgical instruments (all elements may not be assigned in this level)
    • Performs decontamination, assembly and sterilization of surgical instrumentation per department policy and procedures.
    • Assures instruments are clean and free of foreign matter in preparation for sterilization.
    • Assembles instruments sets and trays accurately.
    • Packages and labels items for correct sterilization method.
  • Performs work following safety standards and protocols (all elements may not be assigned in this level)
    • Follows infection control guidelines when working in decontamination.
    • Demonstrates appropriate use of washers/disinfectors, ultrasonic machine, high level disinfection and other department equipment.
    • Operates sterilizers safely, documenting loads according to standards.
    • Processes and interprets biological controls and tests per guidelines, document for each procedure.
    • Reports potentially unsafe situations and malfunctioning equipment to supervisor or lead.
    • Conducts quality assurance checks on required equipment per department guidelines.
  • May provide support for Case Carts, Sterile Core and other areas as assigned
    • Pulls cases for next day, add-on and emergency procedures accurately.
    • Completes the appropriate paperwork for compliant charging and billing or case.
    • Follow tasks assignment list when working in the sterile core.
    • Responds to urgent request with accuracy and efficiency.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Must be 18 years of age with education and/or experience needed to meet required functional competencies as listed on the job description

Preferred Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Vocational or Technical Training-Completion of Instrument Specialist/Central Supply program or Surgical Technology program
  • 0 to 2 years in sterile processing 1 year

Licenses/Certifications
  • Certified Sterile Processing Technician - The Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) required CBSPD within 1-1/2 Yrs or
  • Certified Sterile Processing Technician - The Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) this requirement not applicable if in 3 month program
  • Certified Registered Central Service Tech CRCST within 1-1/2 Yrs required
  • Certified Registered Central Service Tech This requirement not applicable if in 3 month program

Physical Demands
  • Medium Work:
  • Lifting weight up to 50 lbs. occasionally, up to 25 lbs. frequently

Pay Range
Pay Range: $21.24 to $29.82 per hour
The pay described reflects the base hourly pay range. Your starting rate would depend on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, your experience, education, and the union agreement (if applicable). Shift, weekend and/or other differentials may be available to increase your pay rate for certain shifts or work.
Benefit Summary
Allina Health believes the best way to provide safe and compassionate care for our patients is by nurturing the passion of those who care for them. That's why we devote extraordinary resources to help you grow and thrive - not only as a professional but also as a whole person. When you join our team, you have access to a wealth of valuable employee benefits that support the total well-being - mind, body, spirit and community - of you and your family members.
Allina Health is all in on your well-being. Because well-being means something different to everyone, our award-winning program provides you with the resources you need to help you navigate your personal journey. This includes well-being dollars, dedicated well-being navigators, and many programs, activities, articles, videos, personal coaching and tools to support you on your journey.
In addition, Allina Health offers employee resources groups (ERGs) -- voluntary, employee-led groups that serve as a resource for members and organizations by fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with the organization's mission, values, goals, business practices, and objectives. Allina Health also engages employees in various community involvement and volunteering events.
Benefits include:
  • Medical/Dental
  • PTO/Time Away
  • Retirement Savings Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-term/Long-term Disability
  • Voluntary Benefits (vision, legal, critical illness)
  • Tuition Reimbursement or Continuing Medical Education as applicable
  • Student Loan Support Benefits to navigate the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Allina Health is a 501(c)(3) eligible employer

*Benefit eligibility/offerings are determined by FTE and if you are represented by a union.

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