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Sterile Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Sterilization Operator I

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$20.25 - $29.25/hr

Create sterilization control documentation and standard operating procedures. Complete other paperwork as required. * Operate powered material handling equipment to stage, organize, load and remove ...

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How much do sterile operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile operator in the United States is $18.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

A sterile operator typically earns less than $10,000 per month, but some high-paying jobs without a degree include roles such as commercial pilot, real estate broker, or sales manager, which often require specialized skills, certifications, or experience. These positions may involve sales, technical training, or licensing but do not always require a traditional college degree.

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 Sterile Operators?

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.

Is it hard to get hired as a sterile processing tech?

Getting hired as a sterile processing technician typically requires relevant training or certification, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. Job availability can vary based on healthcare facility needs and geographic location, but entry-level positions are often accessible to those with proper qualifications. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of sterilization equipment can improve employment prospects.

How much do sterile processing techs make?

Sterile processing technicians in Tennessee typically earn an average annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on healthcare facility size and location, with some techs earning higher wages with specialized skills or advanced certifications such as CBSPD or IAHCSMM. The role often requires knowledge of sterilization equipment, infection control protocols, and adherence to safety standards.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically require specialized skills, experience, or certifications, such as certain medical professionals, high-level consultants, or skilled trades like surgeons or senior project managers. These roles often involve high responsibility, long hours, or freelance work with premium rates. For example, some surgeons or executive consultants may earn this amount through private practice or consulting engagements.
What cities are hiring for Sterile Operator jobs? Cities with the most Sterile Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Sterile Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,977 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Sterile Processing Technician Il

NY United Health Services

Norwich, NY • On-site

$18.56 - $26.92/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Position OverviewUnder general direction performs Sterile Processing Department duties, which include but are not limited to manual decontamination, operating mechanical washers, assembly, packaging, sterilization, operating various sterilizers, equipment and instrument quality inspections, ordering supplies and distribution of reusable surgical instrumentation and medical devices.
Following UHS Sterile Processing and Infection control policies must be able to interpret, maintain and document sterilization records in the electric instrument tracking system. Provide for and track all UHS inpatient units, off site clinical areas and outpatient clinics reusable instrumentation.
All to provide positive patient outcomes by meeting the needs of our customers identified as physicians, clinical units, ancillary areas, clinics and UHS affiliates.

Primary Department, Division, or Unit:

Sterile Processing, UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital

Primary Work Shift:

Day

Regular Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Compensation Range:

$18.56 - $26.92 per hour, depending on experience

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Monday - Thursday, 10 Hour shifts.

On-call rotation as required.

Education/Experience

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • At least 1 year experience in SPD (certified or uncertified)

Preferred:

  • Surgical inventory experience


License/Certification

Minimum Required:

  • (HSPA) Certified and Registered Central Service Technician -CRCST OR
  • (CBSPD) Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician- CSPDT

Preferred:

  • HSPA additional to CRCST
    • Certified Instrument Specialist - CIS
    • Certified Endoscope Reprocessor - CER
  • CBSPD addition to CSPDT
    • Certified Ambulatory Surgery Sterile Processing Technician - CASSPT
    • Certified Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor - CFER
    • Certified Surgical Instrument Specialist - CSIS

Job Responsibilities
Drives the commitment for exceptional patient experience
Performs equipment quality tests such as cleaning washer screens, spray arms, protein tests, and daily maintenance checks on sterilizers
Utilizes various decontamination and sterilization equipment including mechanical washers, ultrasonic washers, high- and low-temperature sterilizers, Ethylene Oxide (ETO)
sterilizers, and instrument dryers

Retrieves and receives used instruments and equipment from clinical areas in an aseptic manner to prevent cross-contamination and reduce exposure risks, following OSHA
standards
Documents all reusable medical devices upon receipt in the decontamination area using an instrument tracking system
Applies industry-leading manual cleaning methods with appropriate detergents, brushes, and PPE, followed by mechanical cleaning processes
Conducts thorough quality inspections on instruments, including testing sharpness, using boroscopes, checking for residue proteins, and assessing for pitting or corrosion
Assembles surgical sets and equipment following manufacturer instructions for use (IFUs) and count sheets to ensure accuracy and completeness
Performs quality checks on wrapped or containerized sets prior to sterilization to verify integrity and proper packaging
Selects the correct sterilization method and cycle, monitors equipment performance, and documents chemical and biological testing outcomes
Handles ETO sterilization in compliance with safety standards, including aeration, emergency procedures, and proper PPE use; maintains current certification in ETO safety
Performs visual inspections for chemical indicator color change and aseptically distributes sterile instruments to appropriate units
Cleans, disinfects, stores, distributes, and tracks reusable durable medical equipment such as IV pumps, SCDs, and PCA machines
Maintains inventory levels and ensures sterile items and equipment are stored properly and ready for timely distribution
Fulfills and restocks adult and pediatric crash carts as well as trauma carts to ensure readiness for emergencies
Gains proficiency in surgical instrument specialties including General, Orthopedic, Vascular, Plastic, Cardio Thoracic, Neuro, Ophthalmic, ENT, GYN, Podiatry, Urology, Cystoscopy,
Dental, and Dermatology
Reviews daily surgical schedules to anticipate and prepare for instrument turnover needs for upcoming procedures or next-day cases

#IND1

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Why You'll Love Working at UHS

At United Health Services (UHS), we believe every connection-to patients, to purpose, to each other-makes a difference. That's why we're intentional about supporting our team in ways that go beyond the job. Whether through meaningful benefits, personal growth, or fun along the way, we're here to help you thrive in work and life.

A Culture of Connection - We support each other like family and create space for every voice to be heard. Engagement Councils, peer recognition, and initiatives like Walk in my Shoes for senior leaders are just a few ways we foster belonging and collaboration. Outside of work, we stay connected through team events like trivia, trunk-or-treat, volunteer days, our staff choir, or seasonal celebrations.

Comprehensive Benefits for Life & Family - We offer medical, dental, and vision coverage starting the first of the month after hire for employees working 24+ hours/week. With flexible plan options and coverage tiers, you can choose what fits your life best. Additional perks include discounted childcare through Bright Horizons and voluntary benefits like pet insurance, legal services, and identity theft protection.

Well-Being & Financial Security - From day one, PTO starts accruing so you can take time to recharge. We support your long-term wellness with a 403(b) retirement plan and company match, flexible spending accounts, access to financial advisors, and up to $400/year in wellness rewards. When life gets tough, we're here with 24/7 EAP counseling, virtual mental health support, a food pantry, PTO donation program, and professional attire through the Classy Closet.

Growth That Moves with You - With access to 100,000+ online courses, leadership programs, tuition reimbursement, clinical ladders, and internal mobility, we help you grow wherever your passion leads. We also continuously review compensation to ensure market competitiveness and internal equity, so you can feel confident your work is valued and rewarded fairly.

A Place to Call Home - Located in New York's Southern Tier, UHS offers more than a career-we offer a lifestyle. Enjoy four-season recreation, affordable living, top-rated schools, minor league sports, craft brews, a close-knit community, and more, all within reach of the Finger Lakes, the Catskills, and major Northeast cities.

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About United Health Services

United Health Services (UHS) is a locally owned, not-for-profit healthcare system in New York's Southern Tier comprising four hospitals, long-term care and home care services, and physician practices in Broome and surrounding counties. UHS provides healthcare and medical services for two-thirds of the region's population, produces $1.3 billion a year in total economic impact, and boasts a workforce of more than 6,300 employees and providers.

At UHS, our work is guided by our Values of Compassion, Trust, Respect, Teamwork, and Innovation. Whether you provide direct patient care or support behind the scenes, you are part of a shared purpose: to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve. Every employee plays a meaningful role in fulfilling our mission-we'd love for you to consider joining us!

United Health Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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United Health Services, Inc. and the members of the UHS System neither are affiliated with, sponsored, endorsed nor approved by, nor otherwise associated with, Universal Health Services, Inc. (NYSE: UHS), UHS of Delaware, Inc. nor their affiliates, which can be found at www.uhsinc.com.

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