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Sterile Processing Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Multiple shifts available Overview Works under the supervision of Sterile Processing leadership. Is ... Nursing Assistant/Medical Assistant (Preferred) To learn more about being a team member with ...

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Multiple shifts available Overview Works under the supervision of Sterile Processing leadership. Is ... Nursing Assistant/Medical Assistant (Preferred) To learn more about being a team member with ...

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Overview Works under the supervision of Sterile Processing leadership. Is responsible for all ... Nursing Assistant/Medical Assistant (Preferred) To learn more about being a team member with ...

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Overview Works under the supervision of Sterile Processing leadership. Is responsible for all ... Nursing Assistant/Medical Assistant (Preferred) To learn more about being a team member with ...

Sterile Processing Technician

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.17 - $29.90/hr

You'll help maintain clean and organized department spaces, assist with deliveries, answer phones ... One year of sterile processing experience is preferred. Certification/Licensure: None. Additional ...

You'll help maintain clean and organized department spaces, assist with deliveries, answer phones ... One year of sterile processing experience is preferred. Certification/Licensure: None. At VHC ...

Sterile Processing Technician

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.17 - $29.90/hr

You'll help maintain clean and organized department spaces, assist with deliveries, answer phones ... One year of sterile processing experience is preferred. Certification/Licensure: None.

Position Title Sterile Processing Technician IV Summary NOW OFFERING A $10,000 SIGN-ON BONUS! Step ... You'll help maintain clean and organized department spaces, assist with deliveries, answer phones ...

Position Title Sterile Processing Technician I Summary Step into a vital support role as a Central ... You'll help maintain clean and organized department spaces, assist with deliveries, answer phones ...

Position Title Sterile Processing Technician II Summary NOW OFFERING A $10,000 SIGN-ON BONUS! Step ... You'll help maintain clean and organized department spaces, assist with deliveries, answer phones ...

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Sterile Processing Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$27

$43

How much do sterile processing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing assistant in Virginia is $27.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.76 and $32.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Sterile Processing Assistant?

As a Sterile Processing Assistant, your daily responsibilities include cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing surgical instruments and medical equipment, assembling instrument trays, and maintaining proper documentation of sterilization processes. You will also be responsible for inspecting instruments for damage and ensuring they are stored correctly before being distributed to various hospital or clinical departments. The role often involves working closely with surgical teams and other healthcare staff to anticipate instrument needs and provide support in a timely manner. This position requires strict adherence to infection control protocols and attention to detail to ensure patient safety. You may work shifts including evenings or weekends, as hospitals and clinics require these services around the clock.

What is a Sterile Processing Assistant job?

A Sterile Processing Assistant is responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing medical instruments and equipment used in healthcare settings. They ensure all tools are properly disinfected, stored, and distributed to various departments to prevent infections and maintain patient safety. Their duties also include monitoring sterilization processes, maintaining inventory, and following strict infection control protocols. This role is essential in hospitals, surgical centers, and other medical facilities to support healthcare professionals in providing safe patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Sterile Processing Assistant position, and why are they important?

Sterile Processing Assistants require attention to detail, basic knowledge of infection control procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent; some employers may prefer completion of a sterile processing certification program. Familiarity with sterilization equipment, tracking systems, and compliance with standards like those from AAMI or IAHCSMM is often needed. Strong time management, communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively help individuals excel in fast-paced hospital or clinic settings. These qualifications are vital to ensure the safe preparation and distribution of medical instruments, protecting both staff and patients from potential infections.

How to become a sterile processing assistant?

To become a sterile processing assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete a sterile processing technician training program or certification. Skills in sterilization procedures, attention to detail, and knowledge of medical equipment are essential, and some employers may require certification from organizations like the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).

What pays more, 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 working in healthcare environments. CNAs typically have lower certification requirements and may earn less, but wages can vary based on location, experience, and healthcare facility. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, but the technical nature of sterile processing often results in higher pay.

What does a sterile processing assistant do?

A sterile processing assistant is responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and organizing surgical instruments and medical equipment to ensure they are safe for use. They operate sterilization machines, follow infection control protocols, and maintain accurate records of processed items, often working in a hospital or healthcare setting. Attention to detail and knowledge of sterilization procedures are essential for this role.

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

Getting hired as a sterile processing technician typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in sterilization procedures and equipment. Certification, such as the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), can improve job prospects, but entry-level positions are often available with on-the-job training. The demand for sterile processing techs is steady due to ongoing healthcare needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Sterile Processing Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Sterile Processing Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Assistant job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,696 per year, or $27.3 per hour.
Sterile Processing Assistant- Full Time

Sterile Processing Assistant- Full Time

VCU Health

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


VCU Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 170 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

The Sterile Processing Assistant performs a variety of indirect patient care activities. This includes distribution and picking up of Central Sterile items and trays from various departments and clinics; transportation of items to the Decontamination Room and scans for documentation; unloads carts from washer and unloads rigid containers and properly stores; and scans instrument trays being unloaded to Prep and Packing area. The Sterile Processing Assistant observes infection control practices.
Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Hire: N/A
Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for continued employment: N/A
Experience REQUIRED: N/A
Experience PREFERRED:
Previous work experience as a Transporter or Storeroom Clerk
Education/training REQUIRED:
High School Diploma or equivalent
Education/training PREFERRED: N/A
Independent action(s) required:
Functions under the direction of supervisor/manager to provide indirect patient care, emotional support and problem solving all in accordance with hospital, nursing and unit policy/procedure.
Job duties may include the access to and/or contact with medications and related supplies.
Supervisory responsibilities (if applicable): N/A
Additional position requirements:
Central Supply/Processing staff are expected to rotate shifts including weekends and holidays.
Individual shift rotation and schedules will be established with your specific manager.
Schedules, including requirements of shift rotations and hours of work may be adjusted as necessary to meet staffing requirements or as is in the best interest of the work unit.
Age Specific groups served: All
Physical Requirements (includes use of assistance devices as appropriate):
Physical: Lifting 20-50 lbs. Pushing > 100 lbs.
Activities: Prolonged standing, Walking (distance), Reaching (overhead, extensive, repetitive), Repetitive motion
Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking
Emotional: Fast pace environment, Able to handle multiple priorities, Able to adapt to frequent change, Noisy environment, Frequent and intense customer interactions
EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran

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