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Sterile Processing Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Ascension

Sterile Processing Tech

Elk Grove Village, IL

$19.58 - $26.09/hr

Sterile Processing Schedule: Night shift | Full-time | 10:30 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. Monday - Friday ... We empower our 97,000+ associates to bring their skills and expertise every day to reimagining ...

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Sterile Processing Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$17

$31

How much do sterile processing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing associate in Illinois is $17.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $18.89 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.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Sterile Processing Associate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Sterile Processing Associate job openings:
Sterile Processing Associate jobs near you

Sterile Processing Tech

Ascension

Elk Grove Village, IL

$18.64/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Ascension Healthcare rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 1,037 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

414th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Your future role at a glance 

Location: Elk Grove Village, IL

Facility: Ascension Alexian Brothers

Department:  Sterile Processing

Schedule: Night shift | Full-time | 10:30 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. Monday - Friday, weekends and Holidays

Salary range : $19.58- $26.09 per hour


Life at Ascension: Where purpose meets opportunity

Ascension is a leading nonprofit Catholic health system with a culture and associate experience grounded in service, growth, care and connection. We empower our 97,000+ associates to bring their skills and expertise every day to reimagining healthcare, together. Recognized as one of the Best 150+ Places to Work in Healthcare and a Military-Friendly Gold Employer, you’ll find an inclusive and supportive environment where your contributions truly matter.


Benefits that help you thrive
  • Comprehensive health coverage: medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage and HSA/FSA options
  • Financial security & retirement: employer-matched 403(b), planning and hardship resources, disability and life insurance
  • Time to recharge: pro-rated paid time off (PTO) and holidays
  • Career growth: Ascension-paid tuition (Vocare), reimbursement, ongoing professional development and online learning
  • Emotional well-being: Employee Assistance Program, counseling and peer support, spiritual care and stress management resources
  • Family support: parental leave, adoption assistance and family benefits
  • Other benefits: optional legal and pet insurance, transportation savings and more


How you’ll make an impact in this role
  • Clean soiled instruments, sterilization containers, and equipment according to established protocols.
  • Examine all surgical instruments, sets, and containers to ensure proper sterilization, cleanliness, functionality, and completeness.
  • Adjust instrument sets to meet current standards using established count sheets and instrument tracking systems.
  • Ensure appropriate levels of equipment and supplies are available for case carts.

What minimum requirements you’ll need

Licensure / Certification / Registration:

  • Central Service Tech specializing in Sterile Processing credentialed from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association preferred.
  • Central Service Tech specializing in Sterile Processing credentialed from the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) preferred.

Education:

  • High School diploma equivalency OR 1 year of applicable cumulative job specific experience required.
  • Note: Required professional licensure/certification can be used in lieu of education or experience, if applicable.

What additional preferences we're seeking
  • Certified Sterile Processing Tech

Equal employment opportunity employer

Ascension provides Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) to all associates and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, lactation, breastfeeding, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, all as defined by applicable law, and any other legally protected status or characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. For further information, view the EEO Know Your Rights (English) poster or EEO Know Your Rights (Spanish) poster.

Fraud prevention notice

Prospective applicants should be vigilant against fraudulent job offers and interview requests. Scammers may use sophisticated tactics to impersonate Ascension employees. To ensure your safety, please remember: Ascension will never ask for payment or to provide banking or financial information as part of the job application or hiring process. Our legitimate email communications will always come from an @ascension.org email address; do not trust other domains, and an official offer will only be extended to candidates who have completed a job application through our authorized applicant tracking system.

E-Verify statement

Employer participates in the Electronic Employment Verification Program. Please click here for more information.

What Ascension Healthcare employees say

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About Ascension

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ascension is a leading non-profit, faith-based national health system made up of over 150,000 associates and 2,600 sites of care, including more than 140 hospitals and 40 senior living communities in 19 states.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and outpatient health care

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

St. Louis, MO, US

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