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Sterile Processing Associate Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Flowers Hospital

Surgical Tech PRN

Dothan, AL

Associate Degree in Surgical Technology or Applied Sciences required * 0-2 years of operating room ... Expertise in surgical techniques, instrumentation, and sterile processing. * Ability to anticipate ...

Flowers Hospital

Surgical Tech

Dothan, AL

Associate Degree in Surgical Technology or Applied Sciences required * 0-2 years of operating room ... Expertise in surgical techniques, instrumentation, and sterile processing. * Ability to anticipate ...

Baldwin Health

Surgical Tech Cert

Foley, AL

Associate Degree in Surgical Technology or Applied Sciences required * 0-2 years of operating room ... Expertise in surgical techniques, instrumentation, and sterile processing. * Ability to anticipate ...

Flowers Hospital

Surgical Tech Part Time

Dothan, AL

Associate Degree in Surgical Technology or Applied Sciences required * 0-2 years of operating room ... Expertise in surgical techniques, instrumentation, and sterile processing. * Ability to anticipate ...

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Sterile Processing Associate information

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$7

$14

$25

How much do sterile processing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing associate in Alabama is $14.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.72 and $15.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Will AI replace sterile processing techs?

AI is unlikely to fully replace sterile processing associates, as the role requires manual dexterity, attention to detail, and adherence to strict sterilization protocols that are difficult for AI to replicate. Instead, AI and automation tools are expected to assist with tasks like inventory management and tracking, allowing technicians to focus on complex procedures and quality assurance. Human oversight remains essential for ensuring patient safety and compliance with healthcare standards.

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 certifications. CNAs typically have lower entry requirements and earn less, while sterile processing roles often require technical training and may offer higher pay in healthcare settings.

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

Getting hired as a sterile processing associate 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 work in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

How much do sterile processing techs make?

Sterile Processing Associates typically earn an average annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, with higher wages often found in larger hospitals or healthcare facilities that require specialized skills and adherence to strict sterilization protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sterile Processing Associate, and why are they important?

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 Sterile Processing Associates?

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 most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Alabama are:
Sterile Processing Associate jobs near you
Supervisor, Sterile Processing

Supervisor, Sterile Processing

Steris Corporation

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$68/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

STERIS rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Position Summary
The Supervisor, Sterile Processing will provide onsite support, training, Customer Service, and communication regarding the processing of surgical instruments and staff management to contracted facilities in compliance with STERIS Standard Work or QMS, the Department of Health, TJC, DNV, OSHA, CDC, AAMI and AORN standards, and facility goals and policies. Coordinates and oversees day-to-day operations of the STERIS IP sterile processing team. The Supervisor, Sterile Processing is responsible for their assigned shift. Work hours will be based upon the department and/or Customer needs and may change during the course of your employment. This is a 3rd shift position, 10:30 PM - 7:00 AM
Duties
People Management (40%)
  • Provides supervision and leadership of Sterile Processing Department at assigned facility and shift.
  • Manages workflow and maintains staffing work schedule, including evenings, weekends and holidays, to ensure on time delivery to Customer.
  • Meets with direct reports monthly to provide feedback, hold employee accountable to performance, development, and expectations to ensure quality service.
  • Responsible for partnering with leader to address and resolve employee concerns timely and drive employee engagement activities.
  • In collaboration with the manager, supports the scheduling for new STERIS employee orientation, on-the-job training, in-service education, and quality assurance programs when needed.
  • Participates in interviews, hiring, training, and coaching of Customer employees as required by the contract.

Operations Management (50%)
  • Oversees and supports daily operations of all activities that relate to the proper processing of reusable medical supplies and instrumentation including decontamination, cleaning, assembly, sterilization, and storage processes within all set professional standards and regulations.
  • Performs Sterile Processing Technician responsibilities as needed to ensure on time delivery to Customer.
  • Follows chain of command within hospital and/or STERIS regarding identified problems or issues to ensure proper communication and resolution. Responsible for answering and responding to calls from the Customer and other end-users, during and after regular business hours as required by the contract.
  • Assists manager in review of all required documentation related to STERIS Standard Operating Procedures and ensures staff's adherence to applicable policies and procedures.

Duties - cont'd
Continuous Improvement (10%)
  • Performs daily observations to identify process improvement opportunities within operations and employee performance and compliance.
  • Maintains a safe work environment by setting standards for staff use of universal precautions, personal protective equipment, and completing daily safety observations.
  • Promotes collaboration with Customer physicians, nursing staff, department heads, and personnel of other departments.
  • Works with Education to identify developmental training opportunities for employees and supports the delivery of education and training as required.
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Experience
  1. Minimum High School Diploma or GED Required.
  2. Minimum 4 years of hands-on sterile processing experience with one year of leadership (supervisor level or above) experience with direct reports, or 2 years of lead experience required.
  3. CRCST or CBSPD Certification and additional certification (i.e. instrument specialist, flexible endoscope, healthcare leader, manager, STERIS Assessment) required. If not certified at point of hire, both certifications must be obtained within 12 months of hire.
  4. Sterile Processing Department (SPD) management must maintain no less than eighteen (18) hours continuing education (or other equivalent educational activity) annually to include six (6) hours dedicated to leadership and/or management and three (3) hours dedicated to infection prevention and control
  5. Demonstrated self-starter and able to manage independently
  6. Basic computer skills and aptitude

Preferred Experience
  1. Associates degree preferred
  2. Current Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL) or Certified in Sterile Processing Management (CSPM).
  3. Experience using instrument tracking software
  4. Union experience preferred (Travel)

Skills
  1. Understands and promotes concepts of the Lean work environment.
  2. Microsoft Office (knowledge of MS Office 365 including Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint) and must be capable of learning software programs (including instrument tracking and timekeeping and payroll systems) and/or hardware as required.
  3. Understand and promotes the development of individual employee objectives.
  4. Effective communication skills and ability to conduct team meetings
  5. Ability to handle multiple demands from many people and prioritize effectively.
  6. Ability to maintain composure under pressure.
  7. Ability to effectively employ delegation, collaboration, conflict resolution skills in a team environme

Pay range for this opportunity is $68,637.50 - $88,825.00. This position is eligible for bonus participation.
Minimum pay rates offered will comply with county/city minimums, if higher than range listed. Pay rates are based on a number of factors, including but not limited to local labor market costs, years of relevant experience, education, professional certifications, foreign language fluency, etc.
STERIS offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits portfolio. Click here for a complete list of benefits: STERIS Benefits
Open until position is filled.
STERIS is a leading global provider of products and services that support patient care with an emphasis on infection prevention. WE HELP OUR CUSTOMERS CREATE A HEALTHIER AND SAFER WORLD by providing innovative healthcare and life sciences products and services around the globe. For more information, visit www.steris.com.
If you need assistance completing the application process, please call 1 (440) 392.7047. This contact information is for accommodation inquiries only and cannot be used to check application status.
STERIS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity to ensure that persons are recruited, hired, trained, transferred and promoted in all job groups regardless of race, color, religion, age, disability, national origin, citizenship status, military or veteran status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal, state or local law. We are not only committed to this policy by our status as a federal government contractor, but also we are strongly bound by the principle of equal employment opportunity.
The full affirmative action program, absent the data metrics required by § 60-741.44(k), shall be available to all employees and applicants for employment for inspection upon request. The program may be obtained at your location's HR Office during normal business hours.

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