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Sterile Processing Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL

Electrician

New Lenox, IL · On-site

$30.70 - $38.38/hr

... sterilizers, X-Ray processors, endoscopes washers, and communication system • Promotes a clean ... apprenticeship and / or formal training in area of specialty. • Familiar with a variety of the ...

Electrician

New Lenox, IL

$30.70 - $38.38/hr

... sterilizers, X-Ray processors, endoscopes washers, and communication system Promotes a clean and ... May have to complete an apprenticeship and / or formal training in area of specialty. Familiar with ...

Contributes ideas and suggestions for maintenance process improvements. * Stay in compliance with ... HS diploma/GED required (apprenticeship or applicable certifications highly preferred). * Minimum ...

Contributes ideas and suggestions for maintenance process improvements. * Stay in compliance with ... HS diploma/GED required (apprenticeship or applicable certifications highly preferred). * Minimum ...

Contributes ideas and suggestions for maintenance process improvements. * Stay in compliance with ... HS diploma/GED required (apprenticeship or applicable certifications highly preferred). * Minimum ...

Sterile Processing Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$28

$45

How much do sterile processing apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing apprentice in Chicago, IL is $28.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $34.18 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Sterile Processing Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Sterile Processing Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 76% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,910 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

$30.70 - $38.38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Silver Cross Hospital rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

552nd of 1,060 rated hospitals


Job description

Silver Cross Hospital is an extraordinary place to work. We're known for our culture of excellence and delivery of unrivaled experiences for our patients, their families, the communities we serve...and for each other. Come join us! It's the way you want to be treated.
Position Summary: Inspect, repairs, install, modifies, and maintain electrical / electronic systems, circuits and equipment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Performs all electrical circuit installations and work orders
• Assure that all circuits are in conformance with the state and national electrical code
• Perform preventative maintenance on all electrical circuits and control panels
• Keep a sufficient maintenance on all electrical circuits and control panels
• Keep a sufficient inventory of space parts to maintain the hospital electrical system in good working order and make emergency repairs when needed
• Maintain outside lighting circuits and outside service receptacles installed for special purposes
• Replace faulty switches, plugs and other parts of electrical systems and fixtures
• Install new wiring and equipment
• Inspect and perform safety test/maintenance on electrical lighting, emergency generators, nurse call system, alarm systems, sterilizers, X-Ray processors, endoscopes washers, and communication system
• Promotes a clean and safe environment of care, utilizing the SAFE error prevention habits
• Provides the highest standard of privacy and confidentiality in matters involving patients, coworkers, and the hospital by abiding by the Standards of Conduct
Required Qualifications:
Education and Training:
• High school diploma or its equivalent with at least 5 years of experience in the field or in a related area.
• May have to complete an apprenticeship and / or formal training in area of specialty.
• Familiar with a variety of the field's concept, practices, and procedures.
• Trade Certificate preferred.
Work Shift Details:
Days, First shift
Days
Department:
BUILDING SERVICES
Benefits for You
At Silver Cross Hospital, we care about your health and well-being and that is why we work hard to provide quality and affordable benefit options for you and your eligible family members.
Silver Cross Hospital and Silver Cross Medical Groups offer a comprehensive benefit package available for Full-time and Part-time employees which includes:
• Medical, Dental and Vision plans
• Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Other voluntary benefit plans
• PTO and Sick time
• 401(k) plan with a match
• Wellness program
• Tuition Reimbursement
Registry employees who meet eligibility may participate in one of our 401(k) Savings plan with a potential match. However,registry employees are ineligible for Health and Welfare benefits.
The final pay rate offered may be more than the posted range based on several factors including but not limited to: licensure, certifications, work experience, education, knowledge, demonstrated abilities, internal equity, market data, and more.
The expected pay for this position is listed below:
$30.70 - $38.38

What Silver Cross Hospital employees say

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About Silver Cross Hospital

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Silver Cross, we pride ourselves on delivering unrivaled care to every patient, every time. As a result, our focus on safety, quality and patient experience has earned us numerous national awards over the years. As the needs of our community have grown, so has Silver Cross—in both size and stature. Our many healthcare services rapidly expanded, evolved and increased in complexity. To serve you and your loved ones even better than before, we've proudly partnered with many of Chicago's leading academic medical centers, bringing extraordinarily advanced care close to home.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New Lenox, IL, US

Year founded

1895

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