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Sterile Process Tech Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

MUSC

Surgical Technologist II

Columbia, SC · On-site

... Tech follows established procedural guides in the preparation of sterile supplies and equipment ... processes, anatomy, instrumentation and/or equipment through an accredited school of Surgical ...

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How much do sterile process tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile process tech in Columbia, SC is $25.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $30.67 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 Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT), and experience with sterilization equipment improve job prospects. Employers often seek candidates with attention to detail, knowledge of infection control protocols, and the ability to work in fast-paced healthcare environments.

Is it worth becoming a sterile process tech?

A sterile process technician plays a critical role in healthcare by sterilizing and preparing medical equipment to ensure patient safety. The job offers steady employment, typically requires attention to detail and knowledge of sterilization procedures, and often involves certifications such as the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT).

What are popular job titles related to Sterile Process Tech jobs in Columbia, SC?

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

What job categories do people searching Sterile Process Tech jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Sterile Process Tech jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Sterile Process Tech jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Sterile Process Tech job openings:

Sterile Process Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sterile Process Tech job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% As Needed, and 67% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,905 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Sterile Processing Clerk - Midlands Orthopaedics Surgery Center

SCA Health

Columbia, SC • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

SCA Health rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

267th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
At SCA Health, we believe health care is about people - the patients we serve, the physicians we support and the teammates who push us forward. Behind every successful facility, procedure or innovation is a team of 15,000+ professionals working together, learning from each other and living out the mission, vision and values that define our organization.
As part of Optum, SCA Health is redefining specialty care by developing more accessible, patient-centered practice solutions for a network of more than 370 ambulatory surgical centers, over 400 specialty physician practice clinics and numerous labs and surgical hospitals. Our work spans a broad spectrum of services, all designed to support physicians, health systems and employers in delivering efficient, value-based care to patients without compromising quality or autonomy.
What sets SCA Health apart isn't just what we do, it's how we do it. Each decision we make is rooted in seven core values:
  • Clinical quality
  • Integrity
  • Service excellence
  • Teamwork
  • Accountability
  • Continuous improvement
  • Inclusion

Our values aren't empty words - they inform our attitudes, actions and culture. At SCA Health, your work directly impacts patients, physicians and communities. Here, you'll find opportunities to build your career alongside a team that values your expertise, invests in your success, and shares a common mission to care for patients, serve physicians and improve health care in America.
At SCA Health, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your health, well-being, and financial future. Our offerings include medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k plan with company match, paid time off, life and disability insurance, and more. Please visit, https://careers.sca.health/why-sca, to learn more about our benefits.
Your ideas should inspire change. If you join our team, they will.
Responsibilities
The Sterile Processing Clerk (Instrument Processing Technician) is responsible for maintaining instruments and equipment in an optimal fashion and preparing instrumentation, equipment, and sterile supplies for the surgical patient.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Functions as an Instrument Processing Technician under the direction of the Clinical Leader/Registered Nurse.
  • Knowledge of sterilization procedures, aseptic technique, and maintenance and care of instruments and equipment.
  • Knowledge of standards and engages in practices and procedures of sterile technique.
  • Cleans and/or disinfects instruments and equipment after use and returns it to the proper area, in appropriate sequence, for storage and/or processing.
  • Differentiates sterilization and disinfection methods required for specific instruments and equipment.
  • Cleans, wraps, sterilizes, and disinfects instruments and equipment and maintains the functions of the instrument processing area/department.
  • Responsible for crossover duties in other areas such as purchasing supplies and inventory management in proper areas according to facility policy and management guidance.

Qualifications
  • High school graduate or GED required.
  • Understanding of sterilization and high-level disinfection technologies including industry standardized principles and practice in sterilization and disinfection required.
  • Prior experience in instrument processing preferred.
  • Prior experience as a surgical technologist/procedure technologist preferred.
  • Successful completion of BCLS Course within 90 days of employment required or documentation of current BCLS certification.
  • Certification in instrument processing is preferred.
USD $22.00/Hr. USD $28.00/Hr.

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