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Sterile Process Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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$13

$27

$43

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 are popular job titles related to Sterile Process Tech jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Sterile Process Tech jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Sterile Process Tech jobs in California are:

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

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

Sterile Process Tech jobs near you
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, Per Diem - Westwood Main OR

UCLA Health

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$35.12/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago

UCLA Health rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 137 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

General Information
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Work Location: Los Angeles, CA, USA
Onsite or Remote
Fully On-Site
Work Schedule
as needed; varying shifts including weekends and holidays as assigned
Posted Date
07/21/2026
Salary Range: $35.12 - 35.12 Hourly
Employment Type
6 - Staff: Per Diem
Duration
INDEFINITE
Job #
31955
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
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Under the general direction of the Sterile Processing Tech Manager and the Management Services Officers (MSO), serve as an instrument technician within the Surgical Supply division of the main operating rooms. Ability to process surgical instrumentation in a decontamination setting and assembly and sterilization of instrument trays, which are necessary to provide continuous service for all surgical procedure rooms. Operate steam and H2O2 sterilizers, sonic equipment, washers, heat sealers and dumb waiter. Store, date and rotate supplies according to TJC and CMS guidelines
  • To qualify as a Sterile Processing Tech II, a minimum of 6 months of Sterile Processing experience is required. Candidates with less than 6 months of experience will be hired as a Sterile Processing Tech I.

Job Qualifications
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We're seeking a highly-skilled, self-motivated professional with:
  • Graduate of accredited Sterile Processing program, Surgical Tech program or relevant experience required
  • To qualify as a Sterile Processing Tech II, a minimum of 6 months of Sterile Processing experience is required. Candidates with less than 6 months of experience will be hired as a Sterile Processing Tech I.
  • Ability to lift surgical trays weighing up to 25lbs, handle surgical case carts weighing up to 200lbs.
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time.
  • Working knowledge of aseptic technique, sterile fields and the principles of an Operating Room decontamination
  • Demonstrated skills in proper maintenance and cleaning of instrumentation.
  • Correct use of various decontamination equipment and instrument/tray sterilizers.
  • Working knowledge of bacteriology and medical terminology preferred.
  • Oral and written skills to collect and relay information accurately.
  • Interpersonal skills to establish and maintain cooperative working relationship with all staff.
  • Skill in performing calmly during emergent and /or stressful situations by taking an appropriate action.
  • Skill in working as part of a team.
  • Ability in the correct usage of proper English grammar and vocabulary to orient and train team members.

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.
Current/former UC employees are subject to a personnel file review.

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About UCLA Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

UCLA Health, operating within the healthcare industry, is significantly recognized for its commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of people through the integration of patient care, research, and education. Located in Los Angeles, California, UCLA Health was founded and associated with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1955, entrenching its roots in quality healthcare service provision. Through a broad range of medical services, UCLA Health significantly stands as a cornerstone for comprehensive outpatient, inpatient, and emergency care services, specialized treatments, and wellness checks. Notable for pioneering an integrated, comprehensive medical approach, UCLA Health is consistently ranked among the top health systems in the US and world.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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