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Sterile Processing Associate Jobs in Rensselaer, NY

Ellis Medicine

Surgical Associate

Schenectady, NY · On-site

$16.40 - $21.49/hr

The Surgical Associate is responsible for assisting the surgical teams with direct and indirect ... Equipment and instruments are transported to the sterile processing department or the Bruggeman ...

Ellis Medicine

Surgical Associate

Schenectady, NY · On-site

$16.40 - $21.49/hr

The Surgical Associate is responsible for assisting the surgical teams with direct and indirect ... Equipment and instruments are transported to the sterile processing department or the Bruggeman ...

Ellis Medicine

Surgical Associate

Schenectady, NY · On-site

$16.40 - $21.49/hr

The Surgical Associate is responsible for assisting the surgical teams with direct and indirect ... Equipment and instruments are transported to the sterile processing department or the Bruggeman ...

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Sterile Processing Associate information

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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 Rensselaer, NY is $18.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $20.53 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 near Rensselaer, NY are hiring for Sterile Processing Associate jobs?

Cities near Rensselaer, NY with the most Sterile Processing Associate job openings:

Sterile Processing Associate jobs near you

Sterile Processing Associate - 40hrs/week, DAYS

Albanymed

Albany, NY • On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Department/Unit:

Sterile Processing

Work Shift:

Day (United States of America)

Salary Range:

$41,923.00 - $54,500.00Performs duties in Central Sterile Processing Department in Decontamination, Instrument Preparation and Assembly, and Sterilization/Disinfection relating to cleaning and sterilizing instruments and equipment to be used in patient care. Disassembles complex instruments, supplies and equipment; sorts and inspects for damage and reports needed repairs. Selects the mode of decontamination best suited for items on hand. Assembles, prepares and packages instrument trays, surgical instruments, equipment, and specialty items. Determines the appropriate sterilization or disinfection method and follows appropriate steps for reprocessing. Follows strict documentation guidelines for tray management, biological/chemical test results, equipment functionality, and reprocessing steps.
  • Receives, sorts, disassembles and processes contaminated instruments and equipment using the procedures and guidelines as established by Infection Control. Removes soil, blood, tissue fragments and body fluids by wiping, soaking, rinsing, scrubbing and using ultrasonic or other mechanical methods, as applicable.
  • Assembles all instrument sets following prescribed manner and as outlined on the Instrument Count Sheets.Properly documents missing items from the set and labels sets correctly.Takes action to correct problems with instrument setsand reports any unresolved issues.
  • Sterilizes instruments, equipment, linen and supplies using various types of autoclaves and aerators.Reprocesses equipment via high level disinfection as appropriate.Loads and operates machinery in prescribed manner and sets controls to correct specifications for the items being sterilized.
  • Properly documents all activities related to instrument/equipment decontamination, assembly, disinfection, and sterilization in the Instrument Tracking System (TDOC, SPM, Censitrac) or established manual systems.
  • Observe and interpret biological, mechanical and chemical monitors relevant to processing/sterilizing.Record results and maintains required records.Initiates recalls as required.
  • Issues items to customers and departments according to established procedures.
  • Observes and reports to supervisor any unfamiliar items with or without appropriate processing literature. Reports equipment requiring repair as needed. Is self-directed and intervenes with corrections to variances in the processing practice.

  • Certification as a Sterile Processing Technician from either CBSPD or IAHCSMM

    Applicants without Sterile Processing (CRCST) are required to obtain CRCST certification via IAHCSMM within ONE (1) year of meeting the eligibility requirements to sit for the certification exam.Eligibility is defined by IAHCSMM as "10 weeks (400 hours) experience" in a Sterile Processing hospital setting.

Thank you for your interest in Albany Med Health System!

Albany Med Health System is an equal opportunity employer.

This role may require access to information considered sensitive to Albany Med Health System, its patients, affiliates, and partners, including but not limited to HIPAA Protected Health Information and other information regulated by Federal and New York State statutes. Workforce members are expected to ensure that:

Access to information is based on a "need to know" and is the minimum necessary to properly perform assigned duties. Use or disclosure shall not exceed the minimum amount of information needed to accomplish an intended purpose. Reasonable efforts, consistent with Albany Med Health System policies and standards, shall be made to ensure that information is adequately protected from unauthorized access and modification.

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