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Sterile Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operated steam sterilizers, low-temperature sterilization systems, ultrasonic cleaners, and automated washer-disinfectors. * Performed instrument inspection for cleanliness, functionality, and ...

Knows operating room instrumentation and equipment. * Familiarity with sterile areas, including use of PPE. * Organized in setting up operating room instrument trays. * Understands operation of ...

Knows operating room instrumentation and equipment. * Familiarity with sterile areas, including use of PPE. * Organized in setting up operating room instrument trays. * Understands operation of ...

sterile tech

Lakewood, CO ยท On-site

$34.08/hr

Sterilize and assemble instrument sets and trays for operating room cases * Perform high-level disinfection (HLD) on appropriate devices to maintain patient safety * Inspect instruments for function ...

Showing results 41-60

Sterile Operator information

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How much do sterile operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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.

More about Sterile Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Sterile Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Sterile Operator job openings:

What states have the most Sterile Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sterile Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Sterile Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,977 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Sterile Processing Technician

UPMC Senior Communities

Altoona, PA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Sterile Processing Technician
Full-time, Day/Evening Shift, Monday-Friday, 11:00 AM - 7:30 PM, rotating weekends and rotation in shift time is possible.
AFSCME - Union
Posted: July 31, 2026
Eligible new hires may receive up to $5,000 in sign-on bonuses over two years-$5,000 for certified technicians, or $2,500 for non-certified technicians, with an additional $2,500 awarded upon certification.
Purpose:
Responsible for receiving, reprocessing, and distributing clean and sterile supplies; cleaning and maintenance of CPR carts and isolation cabinets.
Responsibilities:
  • Cleans and restocks CPR carts.
  • Performs all duties according to department policies and procedures.
  • Operates all departmental equipment and performs operator maintenance.
  • Performs all assigned clerical duties, such as answering the telephone, recording messages, and maintaining records.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of instrumentation and working order for the Operating Room, OB, and other departments.
  • Maintains working knowledge of all products in stock and their appropriate locations.
  • Prepares and assembles special items, trays, and packs to meet the stated needs of all hospital departments.
  • Prepares case carts for the Operating Room.
  • Performs all duties related to decontamination, preparation, sterilization/disinfection, and dispatch of instruments, equipment, and supplies for the Operating Room, OB, Cardiology, ED/Trauma, and Nursing and ancillary departments.
  • Demonstrates working knowledge of sterilization techniques.

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Six months of healthcare experience or currently enrolled in an Accredited Surgical Technician/Sterile Processing Program, Preferred.
  • Must complete 10 hours of continuing education to remain qualified as a Central Sterile Technician on an annual basis.
    Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
    Employees in a Central Sterile position who were active on or before the effective date of 12/27/2020, at a healthcare facility, are grandfathered regarding certification and do not need to obtain it unless they transition into a different position that requires certification. Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution, Certified Registered Central Service Technician, or International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management certification required. New employees will have 18 months from the date of hire to obtain the required certification.
    • Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution, OR Certified Registered Central Service Technician with Healthcare Sterile Processing Association OR International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management
    • Act 34