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Sterile Process Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Sterile Process Tech information

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How much do sterile process tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile process 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 sterile process tech?

Sterile Process Technicians, also known as Sterile Processing Technicians or Central Sterile Technicians, are healthcare professionals responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing medical instruments and equipment in hospitals and surgical centers. They play a critical role in preventing infections by ensuring all surgical tools and devices are properly decontaminated and safe for use. Their work supports patient safety and allows medical teams to perform procedures efficiently. Sterile Process Techs must follow strict protocols and use specialized equipment to meet health and safety standards.

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

To thrive as a Sterile Process Tech, you need knowledge of infection control, sterilization procedures, and medical terminology, usually supported by a high school diploma and certification such as CRCST. Proficiency with autoclaves, sterilization equipment, inventory management systems, and tracking software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are key soft skills for this role. These competencies are vital to ensure patient safety, prevent infections, and maintain smooth operations in healthcare facilities.

What are some common challenges sterile process techs face, and how can they be addressed?

Sterile Process Techs often face challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to sterilization protocols, managing high workloads, and keeping up with evolving healthcare regulations. Attention to detail is crucial, as even minor mistakes can impact patient safety. Effective communication with surgical teams and other departments helps ensure equipment is delivered on time and meets necessary standards. Continuous training and staying updated on best practices can help techs navigate these challenges successfully.

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

AspectSterile Process TechSurgical Technologist
CertificationsTypically requires sterile processing certificationsRequires surgical technology certification (CST)
Work EnvironmentSterile processing departments, sterilization unitsOperating rooms, surgical suites
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, sterilization companiesHospitals, surgical centers, clinics
Job FocusCleaning, sterilizing, and preparing surgical instrumentsAssisting during surgeries, passing instruments

While both roles involve working in healthcare settings with surgical instruments, Sterile Process Techs focus on sterilization and instrument preparation, whereas Surgical Technologists assist directly during surgeries. Both require specialized certifications and are vital to surgical team operations, but their daily tasks and work environments differ.

How do I become a sterile process tech?

To become a sterile process technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in sterilization procedures and infection control. Many employers require certification such as the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) or equivalent, and on-the-job training is common to develop skills with sterilization equipment and protocols.

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

Getting hired as a sterile process tech can be competitive, but having relevant certifications, such as the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT), and experience with sterilization equipment can improve job prospects. Employers often look for attention to detail, knowledge of infection control protocols, and the ability to work in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

What cities in California are hiring for Sterile Process Tech jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sterile Process Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Sterile Process Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,437 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Sterile Processing Tech II

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

$23.69 - $35.53/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 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

121st of 1,060 rated hospitals


Job description

Job Brief
1 Opening
Pay Range: STERILE PROCESS TECH II - $23.69 to $35.53
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 Technician II is an experienced sterile processing professional 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.
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 2 years of sterile processing experience required
  • Experience with various sterilization methods and equipment
  • Demonstrated knowledge of surgical instrumentation

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