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Sterile Processing Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Ascension

Operating Room Nurse Board Runner

Nashville, TN

$36 - $49/hr

... Sterile Processing Association preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative experience OR Associate's degree/Technical degree with 1 year of experience OR 5 ...

Ascension

Operating Room Nurse Board Runner

Nashville, TN · On-site

$33.06/hr

... Sterile Processing Association preferred. Education: * High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative experience OR Associate's degree/Technical degree with 1 year of experience OR 5 ...

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How much do sterile processing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing associate in Tennessee is $16.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.12 and $17.60 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 are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee are:

Sterile Processing Associate jobs near you

Sterile Processing Technician, Non-Certified (7a-7p) Johnson City, TN

Ballad Health

Johnson City, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Ballad Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 229 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

606th of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Job Description:
Summary:
The Sterile Processing Tech, Non-Certified will perform all activities that relate to the reprocessing of reusable medical supplies, linen, equipment, and instrumentation including decontamination, cleaning, inspection, assembly, wrapping, sterilization and storage. The Tech will handle, clean, disinfect, and/or sterilize instruments and equipment according to procedure. This individual will inspect instruments and equipment, recognizing the need for repair and follow the repair procedure. The Tech will select correct packaging material for items being sterilized and demonstrates proper assembly technique. Additionally, the Tech will maintain proper handling of hazardous chemicals, disinfectants, sterilants and cleaning supplies. The Tech will prepare case carts / supply carts and transport those carts to the designated areas. The Tech will also operate sterilization equipment according to procedure. The Tech will assist with the stocking of supplies and other duties as assigned.
Requirements:
High School diploma, equivalent, or CNA required. Associate's degree preferred. Completion of an SPD Technician/Scrub Technician program preferred. Previous CSP/SPD experience preferred. Knowledge of human anatomy and physiology preferred. Knowledge of medical terminology is helpful.
Tennessee facilities: Sterile Processing Techs, Non-Certified are required to have 10 CEUs per year.
Licenses and Certifications:
For Tennessee facilities: Sterile Processing Tech, Non-Certified are required to have 10 CEUs per year OR obtain a valid and active Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) certification and/or Internal Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCMM) within 2 years
Work Requirements:
Shift: Day
On Call: No
Weekends: Yes
Travel Required: No Travel
Shift Details: 7a-7p
City/State: Johnson City, TN
Location:
Johnson City Medical Center

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About Ballad Health

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Become a part of the Ballad Health story. Together, we are transforming our region. We're making communities healthier. We're expanding access to critical services in rural areas.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Johnson City, TN, US

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