1

Sterile Processing Equipment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Sterile Processing Equipment information

See salary details

$13

$27

$43

How much do sterile processing equipment jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing equipment in the United States is $27.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get hired as a sterile processing equipment technician?

Getting hired as a sterile processing equipment technician can be competitive, but having relevant certifications such as CBSPD or ASPST can improve job prospects. Employers often seek candidates with attention to detail, knowledge of sterilization procedures, and experience working with sterilizers and surgical instruments. Entry-level positions are available, but some roles may require prior training or certification.

How to become a sterile processing equipment technician?

To become a sterile processing equipment technician, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete specialized training or certification in sterilization procedures and equipment handling. Many employers prefer candidates with certification from organizations like the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM) or the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD). Experience with medical tools, attention to detail, and knowledge of infection control standards are also important for this role.

What is the difference between Sterile Processing Equipment vs Sterile Processing Technician?

AspectSterile Processing EquipmentSterile Processing Technician
CertificationsNone requiredCertified CST or CBSPD
Work EnvironmentEquipment and sterilization toolsSterilization areas, operating rooms
Job RoleMaintains and manages sterilization equipmentOperates sterilization equipment, prepares instruments

While Sterile Processing Equipment refers to the tools and machinery used in sterilization, Sterile Processing Technicians are responsible for operating these tools and ensuring instruments are properly sterilized. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, with the technician focusing on hands-on sterilization and equipment management focusing on maintaining sterilization devices.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in sterile processing equipment roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Sterile Processing Equipment roles often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict compliance with sterilization protocols, managing high volumes of surgical instruments efficiently, and keeping up with rapidly changing technology and equipment. Addressing these challenges involves staying current with industry best practices through ongoing training, maintaining strong attention to detail, and communicating effectively with surgical and nursing staff to ensure timely delivery and retrieval of instruments. Many facilities also promote teamwork and provide support through mentorship programs to help new staff acclimate and succeed.

What is sterile processing equipment?

Sterile processing equipment refers to the specialized tools and machines used to clean, disinfect, and sterilize medical instruments, surgical tools, and other healthcare devices. These include autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, washer-disinfectors, and sterilization containers. The main goal of using sterile processing equipment is to ensure all reusable medical instruments are free from harmful microorganisms, ensuring patient safety and preventing infections. This equipment is essential in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities where maintaining a sterile environment is critical.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sterile processing technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Technician, you need knowledge of sterilization techniques, infection control, and equipment handling, generally supported by a high school diploma and certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with autoclaves, washers, tracking systems, and regulatory standards like OSHA is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure that surgical instruments are properly sterilized, reducing infection risks and supporting patient safety in healthcare environments.
What cities are hiring for Sterile Processing Equipment jobs? Cities with the most Sterile Processing Equipment job openings:
What states have the most Sterile Processing Equipment jobs? States with the most job openings for Sterile Processing Equipment jobs include:

Sterile Processing Equipment Technician 1

Norwalk Hospital Association

Norwalk, CT

$19.54 - $37.94/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Summary:

Under close supervision, competent sterile processing service tasks that support hospital operations which include receiving, decontamination, assembly, packaging, sterilization, storage, and distribution of sterile instruments.

Responsibilities:

1. Under the supervision of the Sterile Processing Supervisor or Lead Tech, prioritizes, retrieves, sorts, examines, decontaminates and cleans surgical and medical devices.
2. Utilizes appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
3. Maintains current operator level knowledge of care and handling instructions for use (IFUs) for instrumentation, decontamination area equipment and cleaning agents including and proper dilutions.
4. Performs and documents results of daily or weekly equipment functions checks and tests.
5. Utilizing the instrument management software system, assembles instrumentation under supervision.
6. Inspects and assembles instrument sets using the set list. Searches for missing items and reports concerns to the Sterile Processing Supervisor or Lead Tech.
7. Utilizes proper packaging methods and materials including internal and external chemical integrators/indicators.
8. Adheres to the proper sequence when assembling instrumentation according to the set list. Reports injuries, hazards, and defective instruments or equipment immediately to the supervisor or Lead Tech.
9. Utilizes current AAMI standards and guidelines for performing sterilization processes.
10. Performs and documents all sterilizer testing.
11. Assembles loads by sterilization method and required parameters.
12. Records sterilization parameters for each load.
13. Monitors sterilization results. Awareness of quarantine process, early release form, and Immediate Use Steam Sterilization (IUSS). Reports discrepancies to the supervisor or Lead Tech.
14. Performs inventory control, case cart assembly, and supply distribution under the supervision of the Supervisor or Lead Tech.
15. Performs inventory control in Sterile Storage and specilaty carts.
16. Builds and scans surgical case carts and instrumentation.
17. Assists with scanning and reshelving of items returned to SPD.
18. Fulfills all compliance responsibilities related to the position.
19. Performs other duties as assigned to include crash cart exchanges and selective equipment cleaning (NH).

Education Skills Experience:

HS GRAD/EQUIVALENT

Other Information:

Required: High School diploma. Certified Sterile Processing Tech (CSPT) required within 2 years of hire, or meeting state regulations to work in sterile processing role. Minimum Experience: one year Desired: One year of healthcare experience preferred. HS Diploma and currently enrolled in CSPT certification program is preferred.

Working Conditions:

Manual: significant manual skills/motor coord & finger dexterity

Occupational: Significant occupational risk

Physical Effort: Very Heavy effort. May exert up to 50 lbs. force

Physical Environment: Significant exposure to dirt, odors, noise, human waste, etc.

Company: Norwalk Hospital Association

Org Unit: 418

Department: Sterile Processing

Exempt: No

Salary Range: $19.54 - $37.94 Hourly