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How much do sterile processing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing associate in the United States is $18.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sterile processing associate?

Sterile Processing Associates are healthcare professionals responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing medical instruments and equipment in hospitals and clinics. They play a crucial role in preventing infections by ensuring that all surgical tools and devices are properly sanitized and safe for patient use. Their duties also include inventory management, equipment inspection, and following strict protocols to maintain a sterile environment. Sterile Processing Associates work closely with surgical teams to ensure that procedures run smoothly and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sterile processing associate?

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Associate, you need a strong understanding of infection control, instrument sterilization, and medical terminology, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilization tracking systems, and certification such as CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) is often required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring accuracy and collaborating with clinical teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining patient safety and supporting smooth surgical and medical operations.

What are some common challenges faced by sterile processing associates, and how can they be managed?

Sterile Processing Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict attention to detail while handling a high volume of instruments and adhering to rigorous sterilization protocols. Working in a fast-paced environment, they must stay organized to prevent errors and cross-contamination. Effective communication with surgical teams and adaptability to changing priorities are essential for managing these pressures. Regular training and staying updated on the latest safety standards also help associates perform confidently and efficiently.

What is the difference between Sterile Processing Associate vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSterile Processing AssociateSurgical Technologist
CertificationsCPR, Sterile Processing CertificationCertified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentCentral sterile processing departments, hospitals, clinicsOperating rooms, surgical suites
Job FocusDecontaminating, sterilizing, and distributing surgical instrumentsAssisting during surgeries, passing instruments, maintaining sterile field

While both roles work in healthcare settings and require knowledge of sterile techniques, Sterile Processing Associates focus on sterilizing and preparing surgical instruments, whereas Surgical Technologists actively assist during surgeries. Both roles are essential for patient safety and operate in hospital environments, but their daily tasks and certifications differ.

What cities are hiring for Sterile Processing Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Sterile Processing Associate 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 Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sterile Processing Associate jobs include:

Sterile Processing Associate jobs near you

Sterile Processing Associate

Omaha, NE • On-site

Nebraska Medicine
Health Care and Social Assistance • 5 - 10K employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

239th of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Nebraska Medicineexternal

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Serious Medicine is what we do. Being extraordinary is who we are. Every colleague plays a key role in upholding this promise to our patients and their families.

Shift:

Third Shift (United States of America)

Sterile Processing Associate- Full-time

Position Highlights:

Nebraska Medicine is now taking applications for a talented individual to join us as a Sterile Processing Associate at our Integrated Services Center, in Omaha NE.The Sterile Processing Technician will be responsible for inspecting, cleaning and sterilizing instruments.

Click the link below to watch a short "Job in a Minute" video about the sterile processing associate role!

https://youtu.be/pEQOVJlVhDw?si=3R5sa1g3mfa32RLN

** Updated Resume required for consideration**

Shift:

  • Full Time and benefits eligible (1.0 FTE / 40 hours per week)

  • Monday - Friday / Third Shift / 10:30 PM - 7:00 AM

  • Training on 1st shift for the first 3-4 weeks.

  • Location: Integrated Service Center, Omaha NE

If you have questions about applying for this Sterile Processing Associate role you can contact our TA Partner, Rohit Shinde at rshinde@nebraskamed.com

Why Work With Nebraska Medicine?

  • Together. Extraordinary. Join a team that values your skills, delivering exceptional care through collaboration.

  • Leading Health Network Work with the region's top academic health network, partnering with UNMC to transform lives through education, research, and patient care.

  • Diversity and Inclusion We value diverse backgrounds and experiences, reflecting the communities we serve.

  • Educational Support Enjoy up to $5,000/year in tuition assistance, a 35% discount at Clarkson College, and career advancement opportunities with covered educational costs.

Be part of something extraordinary with Nebraska Medicine!

Sterile Processing AssociateDetails:
Provide an essential role in patient safety and infection control by insuring surgical instruments and equipment is decontaminated, reprocessed and maintained. Operate several types of surgical instruments, sterilizers and decontamination equipment. Provide support to the Perioperative services staff and serves as a liaison to surgical specialty services for the organization.
Required Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 18 years of age required.

  • High school education or equivalent required.

  • Written and verbal communication skills required.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Sterile processing experience or surgical technologist training preferred.

  • Knowledge of medical terminology preferred.

  • Aptitude for electronics troubleshooting preferred.

  • Basic computer skills preferred.

  • Knowledge of approximately 3,000 surgical instruments and specialty surgical instrument sets preferred.

  • Experience using Steam, Ethelene Oxide, and Hydrogen Peroxide Gas Plasma sterilization chambers; PC, laser printer, bar code scanner, bar code printer; Sonic Irrigator; Washer/Decontamination Vessels; Heat Sealer; Biological Autoreader; and Nitrogen Tank preferred.

Nebraska Medicine is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, sex, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity and protected veterans' status.

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