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Sterile Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sterilizer Operator I

San Jose, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

The person in this position performs operator functions in the programming, loading & unloading of EO Sterilizers. * Completes work orders based on customer order requests/protocols. * Performs ...

Sterilizer Operator I

San Jose, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

The person in this position performs operator functions in the programming, loading & unloading of EO Sterilizers. * Completes work orders based on customer order requests/protocols. * Performs ...

Assists Operating Room Housekeeping with room turn over, terminal cleaning of Operating Room suites ... sterile as assigned and directed. Works under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) and ...

New

Assists Operating Room Housekeeping with room turn over, terminal cleaning of Operating Room suites ... sterile as assigned and directed. Works under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) and ...

New

Prepare and process general, trauma, and robotic surgical instrumentation for operating room use * Ensure accurate tracking, documentation, and compliance with infection control and sterilization ...

Prepare and process general, trauma, and robotic surgical instrumentation for operating room use * Ensure accurate tracking, documentation, and compliance with infection control and sterilization ...

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Sterile Operator information

What is a sterile operator?

Sterile Operators are professionals responsible for maintaining and operating equipment in sterile environments, typically within pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or healthcare manufacturing settings. Their primary duties include preparing, cleaning, and sterilizing equipment and workspaces to ensure products are free from contamination. Sterile Operators follow strict protocols for aseptic techniques, document their processes, and may also assist with packaging and quality control. Their role is crucial in ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical products and devices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sterile operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sterile Operator, you need knowledge of aseptic techniques, strong attention to detail, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sterilization equipment, cleanroom protocols, and compliance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards is essential, and certifications like cGMP training are often preferred. Effective communication, reliability, and the ability to follow strict procedures make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure the consistent production of contamination-free products and maintain safety and regulatory compliance in pharmaceutical or medical device environments.

What are some common challenges faced by sterile operators in maintaining aseptic conditions, and how are they typically addressed?

Sterile Operators often face challenges in maintaining strict aseptic conditions, such as avoiding contamination during equipment handling or gowning procedures. To address these, operators follow rigorous standard operating procedures (SOPs), undergo regular training, and participate in environmental monitoring programs. Collaboration with quality assurance teams and frequent audits also help ensure compliance with industry standards. Attention to detail and consistent communication with team members are essential to overcome these challenges and maintain product safety.

What is the difference between Sterile Operator vs Cleanroom Technician?

AspectSterile OperatorCleanroom Technician
CertificationsGMP, aseptic processing trainingCleanroom protocols, GMP
Work EnvironmentPharmaceutical/biotech manufacturing, sterile environmentsElectronics, aerospace, pharmaceutical cleanrooms
Job ResponsibilitiesPrepare sterile products, operate aseptic equipmentMaintain cleanroom standards, monitor environment

While both roles work in controlled environments and require GMP knowledge, Sterile Operators focus on aseptic processing and sterile product preparation, whereas Cleanroom Technicians maintain overall cleanroom standards across various industries. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Sterile Operator jobs in California?

For Sterile Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sterile Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sterile Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Sterile Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Sterilizer Operator 1

The Neil Jones Food Company

Firebaugh, CA • On-site

$22.41/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 6 hours ago


Job description

The Neil Jones Food Company is an industry leader, processing superior quality fresh-packed, vine-ripened California tomatoes and Pacific Northwest fruit. Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, NJFC has been providing our nation’s discerning foodservice, retail, industrial and institutional customers with the finest quality canned and pouched products for over 50 years. NJFC operates three production facilities: Northwest Packing in Vancouver, WA.; San Benito Foods, in Hollister, CA; and Toma-Tek in Firebaugh, CA.

We are looking for a Seasonal- Sterilizer Operator 1 to monitor and control several processes, including; the volume and distribution of tomatoes at the Sterilizer deck, Dice Sterilizers and Pouch lines; cooking process of the dice sterilizers; formulated product and communicates with Flow Control Operators as to incoming tomato volume requirements. This role will be responsible for ensuring that Good Manufacturing Practices Policy (GMP’s), Safety and Health Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulations are being followed at our TomaTek plant in Firebaugh, CA. This is a seasonal, union position, supporting our fresh pack season, typically June – October.

For additional information, please see our “About Us” video, Our Story - Neil Jones Food Company

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manually operates pneumatic controls to regulate diced tomato flow to sterilizers to maintain the volume of diced tomatoes required for maximum productivity.
  • Communicates continuously with other departments (Control Room, Diced Filling and Pouch) regarding product flow supply issues, i.e., over or under supply, machinery breakdowns and other issues that will or could cause fluctuation in product delivery.
  • Assists Supervisors in Equipment start-up, shut down and Clean In Process (CIP).
  • Assists in keeping dumps, chains, belts and sprockets in good running condition.
  • Ensure that all Good Manufacturing Policies (GMP’s) and Safety and Health Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) procedures are being followed.

Requirements:

  • Requires 3 – 6 months of related experience in the Sterilizer Area or similar equipment experience; and basic mechanical and electrical skills to trouble shoot equipment.
  • Requires the ability to add and subtract two-digit numbers and to multiply and divide with 10's and 100's. Ability to perform these operations using units of weight measurement, volume, and distance.
  • Requires the ability to read, write, and speak English.
  • Requires the ability to work with minimal supervision and to follow directions.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test, work extended hours, weekends, and any shift assigned during the fresh pack season, typically July to early October.

Benefits:

  • Eligible for paid sick leave

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)

The Neil Jones Food Company participates in E-Verify

E-Verify Participation

If You Have the Right to Work, Don't Let Anyone Take It Away

We are an Equal Opportunity and Fair Chance Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, citizenship status, genetic information, military or veteran status, and other protected status under applicable law. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.