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Sterile Processing Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VPI Compounding

Cleanroom Apprentice

Englewood, CO · On-site

Salary: $21- $22 Cleanroom Apprentice Department: Production Location: Centennial, CO, 80112 ... Glassware Processing: Clean and sterilize laboratory glassware to support top-tier production.

SCA Pharma

IV Compounding Apprentice Level I

Windsor, CT · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

The IV Compounding Apprentice Level I is responsible for assisting with the preparation of sterile ... Document work performed at multiple stages in the process. * Participate and assist with line ...

SCA Pharma

IV Compounding Apprentice Level I

Windsor, CT · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

The IV Compounding Apprentice Level I is responsible for assisting with the preparation of sterile ... Document work performed at multiple stages in the process. * Participate and assist with line ...

Penn Life Sciences

Be Seen First

Utilities Mechanic (Sterile Water Systems)

Langhorne, PA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

... processing, while supporting safe, reliable, and efficient facility operations through proactive ... apprenticeship in stationary engineering, HVAC, boiler operation, or a related field strongly ...

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Sterile Processing Apprentice information

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$13

$27

$43

How much do sterile processing apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 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.

How much do beginner sterile processing techs make?

Beginner sterile processing technicians typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, depending on location and healthcare facility. Entry-level roles often require basic knowledge of sterilization procedures and the use of processing tools, with pay increasing with experience and certifications.

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.

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

Getting hired as a sterile processing technician can be competitive, but having relevant certifications such as the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) and experience with sterilization equipment can improve job prospects. Employers often seek candidates with attention to detail, good organizational skills, and the ability to follow strict safety protocols in healthcare environments.

What are Sterile Processing Apprentices?

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.

Is 30 too old for an apprenticeship?

There is no age limit for becoming a Sterile Processing Apprentice, as apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages seeking to enter the healthcare support field. Employers value skills, reliability, and a willingness to learn, so being 30 is not a barrier to starting an apprenticeship in sterile processing. Many programs welcome mature candidates who bring life experience and dedication to the role.

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 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.

Who makes more money, CNA or sterile processing technician?

Generally, sterile processing technicians tend to earn higher wages than CNAs due to specialized skills in sterilization, equipment handling, and certifications. CNAs typically have lower entry requirements and earn less, but wages can vary based on location, experience, and healthcare setting.
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Sterile Processing Apprentice jobs near you
Sterile Procedures Equipment Technician - Per Diem - Day

Sterile Procedures Equipment Technician - Per Diem - Day

Hackensack Meridian Health

Manahawkin, NJ

$19.04/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Hackensack Meridian Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 873 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Our team members are the heart of what makes us better.

At Hackensack Meridian Health we help our patients live better, healthier lives — and we help one another to succeed. With a culture rooted in connection and collaboration, our employees are team members. Here, competitive benefits are just the beginning. It’s also about how we support one another and how we show up for our community.

Together, we keep getting better - advancing our mission to transform healthcare and serve as a leader of positive change.

The Sterile Procedures Equipment Technician performs all tasks involved in patient care equipment including pick-up, cleaning and decontamination, delivery and monitoring of unit par levels; handling and stocking supplies for SPD and the OR surgical rooms; cleaning and decontamination of code and specialty carts; and assisting the SPD team members in transport of case carts and supplies.


A day in the life of a Sterile Procedures Equipment Technician at Hackensack Meridian Health includes:

  • Assists in processing of instruments, surgical trays, and surgical case carts.: Performs duties in the Processing area. Maintains knowledge of instruments and trays and can assemble trays and sets as detailed on set layout sheets. Can operate correctly all machinery associated with the Decontamination and Processing area and identify problems when necessary.
  • Checks expiration dates on sterile items.: Checks for outdated items and takes appropriate action if discovered
  • Demonstrates proper phone etiquette.: Uses proper procedure with callers on the business unit and OR Hotline phones in a courteous and efficient manner.
  • Makes daily soil rounds of the medical units.: Performs daily soil rounds, visiting all required areas and returns all items to SPD for processing.
  • Performs functions in Decontamination area.: Responsible for cleaning the instruments, trays and carts. Performs decontamination duties without direction. Has the ability to control the workflow in the Decontamination area.
  • Records all processed loads and keeps accurate records.: Accurately enters information into record books required to track processed loads. Records Biological indicators into required logs and places Biological indicators into the proper incubator to be processed.
  • Responsible for SPD department stock.: Puts away supplies in the SPD department and rotates stock as needed. Duties are performed with reasonable speed and definite accuracy.
  • Responsible for the daily operations of the business unit in the Supervisor's absence.: Demonstrates ability to take charge and appropriately assigns team members in the interest of business unit and ultimately patient care. 
  • Other duties and/or projects as assigned. 
  • Adheres to HMH Organizational competencies and standards of behavior.
  • Lifts a minimum of 5 lbs., pushes and pulls a minimum of 5 lbs. and stands a minimum of 1 hour a day.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

  • High School diploma, general equivalency diploma (GED), and/or GED equivalent programs.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred:

  • Experience with Sterrad sterilization

Licenses and Certifications Preferred:

  • AHA Basic Health Care Life Support HCP Certification

If you feel that the above description speaks directly to your strengths and capabilities, then please apply today!


Minimum rate of $19.04 Hourly
HMH is committed to pay equity and transparency for our team members. The posted rate of pay in this job posting is a reasonable good faith estimate of the minimum base pay for this role at the time of posting in accordance with the New Jersey Pay Transparency Act and does not reflect the full value of our market-competitive total rewards package.
The starting rate of pay is provided for informational purposes only and is not a guarantee of a specific offer. Posted hourly rates may be stated as an annual salary in the offer and posted annual salaries may be stated as an hourly rate in the offer, depending on the level and nature of the job duties and credentials of the candidate. The base compensation determined at the time of the offer may be different than the posted rate of pay based on a number of non-discriminatory factors, including but not limited to:
Labor Market Data: Compensation is benchmarked against market data to ensure competitiveness.
Experience: Years of relevant work experience.
Education and Certifications: Level of education attained, including specialized certifications, credentials, completed apprenticeship programs or advanced training.
Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in relevant skills and competencies.
Geographic Location: Cost of living and market rates for the specific location.
Internal Equity: Compensation is determined in a manner consistent with compensation ranges for similar roles within the organization.
Budget and Grant Funding: Departmental budgets and any grant funding associated with the job position may impact the pay that can be offered.
Some jobs may also be eligible for performance-based incentives, bonuses, or commissions not reflected in the starting rate. Certain positions may also be eligible for shift differentials for work performed on evening, night, or weekend shifts.
In addition to our compensation for full-time and part-time (20+ hours/week) job positions, HMH offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and retirement benefits.

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