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Sterile Processing Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$20.29 - $27.53/hr

Operates sterilizers; prepares and dispenses sterile items; inspects and stocks supplies; performs inspection, adjusting, cleaning and general servicing of instruments and equipment supplied by the ...

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Sterile Processing Apprentice information

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$27

$43

How much do sterile processing apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing apprentice in the United States is $27.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sterile processing apprentice?

Sterile Processing Apprentices are entry-level healthcare workers who are training to clean, sterilize, and prepare medical instruments and equipment for use in hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers. They work under the supervision of experienced sterile processing technicians and learn how to follow strict protocols to prevent infection and ensure patient safety. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, providing hands-on experience in instrument decontamination, assembly, and sterilization processes. This role is a critical part of the healthcare team and can lead to certification and advancement opportunities.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for a sterile processing apprentice?

As a Sterile Processing Apprentice, you'll be responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, assembling, and sterilizing surgical instruments and medical equipment under supervision. You'll learn to operate specialized sterilization equipment, follow strict infection control protocols, and maintain accurate inventory records. This apprenticeship offers hands-on experience in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and provides valuable exposure to healthcare procedures, laying the foundation for advancement into certified sterile processing technician roles and beyond.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sterile processing apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of infection control, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sterilization equipment, instrument tracking systems, and pursuing certification like the CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) is often beneficial. Strong organizational skills, dependability, and the ability to communicate effectively with surgical and nursing teams set candidates apart. These skills ensure that surgical instruments are properly sterilized and available, directly impacting patient safety and smooth healthcare operations.

What is the difference between Sterile Processing Apprentice vs Sterile Processing Technician?

AspectSterile Processing ApprenticeSterile Processing Technician
CertificationsMay require entry-level certifications or on-the-job trainingOften requires certification such as CBSPD or IAHCSMM
Work EnvironmentLearning environment in hospitals or surgical centersFull-time role in sterile processing departments
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sterilization and processing under supervisionPerforming sterilization, inspection, and distribution of surgical instruments

The main difference is that a Sterile Processing Apprentice is typically in a training or entry-level phase, gaining skills and certifications, while a Sterile Processing Technician is a fully qualified professional responsible for sterilizing and managing surgical instruments independently.

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What cities are hiring for Sterile Processing Apprentice jobs?

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What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs?

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What states have the most Sterile Processing Apprentice jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sterile Processing Apprentice jobs include:

Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Apprentice job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 75% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,186 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Sterile Processing Technician - Apprentice-10p-630am Sunday-Thursday

FMOLHS

Baton Rouge, LA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

The Sterile Processing Apprentice will gain knowledge in the field of Sterile Processing and learn about the Hospital Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), educational opportunities, professional development, workflow, processing cycles, basic job knowledge, job responsibilities, compensation, Central Service concerns, career growth, and certifications. This program will help them build up a proper skillset for the industry. At the completion of this course the students will be able to sit for the CRCST certification exam through the HSPA.

FMOL Health is a leading health care innovator in Louisiana and Mississippi. We bring together outstanding clinicians, the most advanced technology and leading research to ensure that our patients receive the highest quality and safest care possible.
This commitment is grounded in a history that is more than 100 years old, but reflected today by our strategic vision of transforming healthcare through superior performance and excellent patient care.
In the last fiscal year, FMOL Healthย had:

  • 1,747 Licensed Beds
  • 65,322 Discharges
  • 44,592ย OR Procedures
  • 10,827 Full Time Employees
  • 331,360 Inpatient Days
  • 1,915ย Active Medical Staff
  • 229,296 Emergency Visits


As a nonprofit, mission-focused Catholic healthcare ministry, we give special attention to our citizens who are most in need. During the most recent fiscal year, we provided more than $39 million in unreimbursed care and community support to the underprivileged.
Our health system is one of the largest in Louisiana, with hospitals, clinics and physicians located throughout Louisiana and in Mississippi. In fact, we provide care to almost half of Louisiana's citizens, and serve in Mississippi's largest metropolitan area. Because of our size and the partnerships we have with other local organizations, we are able to pool our resources and share cost and service efficiencies and learn from each other, thereby accelerating our ability to improve care and solve challenges.
Since our founding in Monroe, Louisiana in 1911, we have been blessed by the guidance of the Franciscan Sisters. Through their guidance and steadfast example, we have committed to assure that we perpetuate their healing ministry for another hundred years. It is a noble purpose we strive to fulfill every day.
Headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, we serve patients across Louisiana and Mississippi through a network of hospitals, clinics, physicians, elderly housing and integrated information system.ย Our health system has partnered with the State of Louisiana as it transforms its healthcare delivery system. The partnership includes inpatient acute care and primary care delivery in Baton Rouge and Bogalusa.
Following in the footsteps of our founders, the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady, our team members and physicians are called to provide high quality care and compassion to all people, especially those most in need.

As we look to the future of our healthcare ministry, we chart our course by "going where we are called."

Experience- Entry level, no experience needed

Education - High School or equivalent

  1. Operational Excellence
    1. Clean instruments to prepare them for sterilization
  2. Quality and patient Safetyย 
    1. Report defective equipment to appropriate supervisors or staff
    2. Check sterile supplies to ensure that they are not outdated
  3. Team Member Experience
    1. Attend hospital in-service programs related to areas of work specialization