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Sterile Processing Assistant Jobs (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 ...

The contractors shall assist in training staff members and 68D in the operation of sterile processing equipment, handling and assembling instruments and sets, procedures for decontamination, assembly ...

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Sterile Processing Assistant information

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$13

$27

$43

How much do sterile processing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing assistant 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 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.
More about Sterile Processing Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Sterile Processing Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Sterile Processing Assistant job openings:
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 Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Sterile Processing Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,186 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Sterile Processing Tech

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

The Sterile Processing Technician, under the direction of the Surgical Services Director and the OR/Sterile Processing Coordinator, is responsible for the daily operations of the Sterile Processing Department.

The Technician in Sterile Processing performs sterilization, sanitation, and disinfection of designated hospital equipment and all surgical instruments, scopes, and packs. The Technician must be able to operate, monitor, and perform maintenance and surveillance of all sterilization equipment.

The Technician must be familiar with and able to use a variety of sterilization and disinfection processes and apply principles of surgical asepsis and infection prevention. The Technician is responsible for hazardous material monitoring in Sterile Processing.

The Technician orders, receives, and stores supplies and assists in coordinating the non-disposable sterile supplies and equipment processed by Sterile Processing for the nursing units.

Perform other duties as requested or assigned. Maybe expected to work varying hours and take call.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent or satisfactory completion of Certified Nursing Assistant Course
  • Completion of a Surgical Scrub Technician program preferred.

LICENSE / CERTIFICATION / REGISTRATION:

  • BLS - Obtains RQI BLS certification within the appropriate quarter (approximately within 3 months of hire), maintains quarterly RQI requirements.
  • CRCST – Obtain through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) within the first year of hire (requires 400 hours of hands-on experience).

EXPERIENCE:

  • CNA experience preferred, but not required. 
  • Hospital experience required.