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Sterile Processing Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You will receive direct mentorship from experienced operators and process development engineers as ... Learn and perform CIP/SIP (cleaning and sterilization) procedures for equipment and cleanroom areas.

You will receive direct mentorship from experienced operators and process development engineers as ... Learn and perform CIP/SIP (cleaning and sterilization) procedures for equipment and cleanroom areas.

Embalmer Apprentice

Oakland, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Ensure proper chain of custody is maintained throughout the preparation process. * Ensures ... Maintain a sterile and safe work environment consistent with company, government and industry rules ...

Embalmer Apprentice

Oakland, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Ensure proper chain of custody is maintained throughout the preparation process. * Ensures ... Maintain a sterile and safe work environment consistent with company, government and industry rules ...

Cellulitis and infectious processes * Kidney failure and acute/chronic kidney injury * Diabetes ... Applies and changes sterile and non-sterile dressing using appropriate technique. Provides care to ...

Cellulitis and infectious processes * Kidney failure and acute/chronic kidney injury * Diabetes ... sterile and non-sterile dressing using appropriate technique. • Provides care to the patient ...

Cellulitis and infectious processes * Kidney failure and acute/chronic kidney injury * Diabetes ... sterile and non-sterile dressing using appropriate technique. • Provides care to the patient ...

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Sterile Processing Apprentice information

See salary details

$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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What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs are:
What states have the most Sterile Processing Apprentice jobs? States with the most job openings for Sterile Processing Apprentice jobs include:
Unit Sec Equipment Tech - NICU - Full Time Nights

Unit Sec Equipment Tech - NICU - Full Time Nights

Hackensack Meridian Health

Neptune, NJ

$18.65/hr

Full-time

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 Unit Secretary Equipment Tech acts as a patient experience ambassador to facilitate and maintain a positive experience with our patients, family members, visitors, and physicians by welcoming and explaining hospital and unit policies and procedures and addressing and escalating patient problems and concerns for service recovery. The Unit Secretary Equipment Technician also performs clerical support for the unit and the Nurse Manager and maintains the equipment within the high risk nursery.

  • Represents the unit and Hackensack Meridian Health as a Patient Experience Ambassador.
  • Ensure that patient belongings are secured and labeled.
  • Answers telephone in a courteous and professional manner.
  • Greets visitors on the unit.
  • Provide direction assistance.
  • Answer call bells and assist with non-clinical requests.
  • Complete hand washing audits.
  • Assist with Facetime calls to family and obtaining language line.
  • Interacts with the team to resolve equipment issues, including nurses, physicians, and operations manager.
  • Performs daily, weekly, and monthly audits of assigned equipment and patient rooms.
  • Checks inventory of assigned procedure carts and restocks as needed.
  • Serves as liaison with Bio Med, Sterile Processing, Materials Management, and Plant Operations departments.
  • Delivers and picks up equipment and supplies from Sterile Processing promptly.
  • Tracks equipment that is out for repair and follows up routinely.
  • Recognizes and responds to opportunities to enhance patient satisfaction.
  • Other duties and/or projects as assigned. 
  • Adheres to HMH Organizational competencies and standards of behavior.

Environment of Care Rounding:

  • Stock Personal Protective Equipment.
  • Stock Blanket warmers and gloves.
  • Round on unit. Report unit conditions and hazards in EPIC and Onelink.
  • Responsible for rental bed ordering.
  • Manage all equipment sent out for service.
  • Assists nursing staff with obtaining necessary equipment and supplies for patient care. (i.e. isolettes, phototherapy lights, etc)
  • Assists nursing staff with washing of patient care items (i.e. clothes, blankets, chair inserts, etc)

Clerical Duties:

  • Maintain and order office supplies and forms.
  • Manage POLST- FAX advanced directive and POLST.
  • Chart Maintenance, including preparation of admission & transport paperwork.
  • Assist in the preparation & distribution of PKU newborn screenings and results.
  • Distribute medication to the RN which are sent via tube.
  • Acts as a runner to the lab, blood bank, and pharmacy.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Proficient computer skills.
  • Possess strong organizational skills and be detail oriented in order to facilitate information, multiple tasks, and accurate completion of all required procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficient computer skills including but not limited to Microsoft Office and Google Suite platforms.


Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred:

  • 2 years of experience in front desk, reception, or customer service.
  • Proficiency in a second language.

Minimum rate of $18.65 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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