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Sterile Processing Externship Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Sterile Processing Externship information

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

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Extern, you need knowledge of sterilization techniques, infection control standards, and basic medical terminology, often gained through a relevant training program or coursework. Familiarity with autoclaves, washer-disinfectors, tracking software, and industry certifications like CRCST is highly beneficial. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These abilities ensure that surgical instruments are properly sterilized and available, directly impacting patient safety and smooth healthcare operations.

What is a sterile processing externship?

A Sterile Processing Externship is a supervised, hands-on training program for individuals pursuing a career in sterile processing. During the externship, participants work in a healthcare facility's sterile processing department, where they learn how to clean, sterilize, and prepare surgical instruments and equipment. This experience allows students to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting, gain practical skills, and meet certification or employment requirements. Externships are often a required step before becoming a certified sterile processing technician.

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

AspectSterile Processing ExternshipSterile Processing Technician
CredentialsTypically enrolled students or recent graduates; may require basic healthcare certificationsCertified or trained in sterile processing; often requires certification such as CBSPD or IAHCSMM
Work EnvironmentEducational setting, shadowing, and hands-on training in hospitals or clinicsFull-time role in hospitals, surgical centers, or clinics performing sterilization and processing of medical equipment
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning sterilization procedures, observing workflows, gaining industry knowledgePerforming sterilization, cleaning, and processing of surgical instruments and equipment

The Sterile Processing Externship provides students with hands-on learning and industry exposure, often as part of training programs. In contrast, a Sterile Processing Technician is a trained professional responsible for sterilizing and maintaining surgical instruments in a healthcare setting. The externship is a stepping stone toward becoming a certified technician, who performs the core duties in sterile processing daily.

Do you get paid for your sterile processing externship?

Sterile processing externships are typically unpaid learning experiences designed to provide hands-on training in sterilization techniques and equipment. Some programs may offer stipends or hourly pay, but most are unpaid internships focused on skill development and certification preparation.

What can I expect during a typical day in a sterile processing externship?

During a Sterile Processing Externship, you'll spend your days assisting with the decontamination, inspection, assembly, and sterilization of surgical instruments and medical equipment. You will work closely with experienced sterile processing technicians and supervisors, learning proper techniques and industry standards. Expect to rotate through different workstations, gain hands-on experience, and get familiar with compliance protocols. Collaboration with surgical staff and nurses is common, as you help ensure all equipment is ready and safe for patient care.
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Externship job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Instrument/Sterilizer Processor l - ll

University of Michigan

Brighton, MI • On-site

$54K - $57K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

How to Apply
A resume must be attached with your application in order to be considered. Applications received without an attached resume will not be considered.
Mission Statement
Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Job Summary
The endoscope processing Technician will evaluate, troubleshoot, disassemble, assemble, and/or inspect endoscopes and TEE probes to assure proper function under direction of the department leadership. She/he will complete and maintain accurate service records both electronically and manually, while ensuring that safe work practices are employed by observing guidelines established or enforced. She/he will proactively participate in the quality systems, quality improvement, and -5S- programs as directed by the department while maintaining confidentiality of documents and processes. The incumbent will accomplish these objectives while maintaining a clean, well-organized work environment. She/he will be expected to maintain acceptable standards for attendance and punctuality, and as a condition of employment, work overtime as needed. Job requires constant standing, twisting, pushing, and lifting.
Job Purpose: Processing, care, and handling of endoscopes, TEE Probes and accessory equipment following infection control, national standards/guidelines, and UMHS policies.
Responsibilities*
  • Leak test, clean and high level disinfect endoscopes, TEE probes, endocavitary probes and other related items
  • Clean, high level disinfects accessory equipment
  • Manual clean endoscopes
  • Stock supplies for the dept. and order as needed
  • Transporting of scopes for repair
  • QC of detergents, chemicals, agents, and/or equipment
  • Operation of Automated Endoscope Reprocessors, Ultrasound machines, leak testers, automated HLD equipment
  • Role model employee code of conduct
  • Ability to meet functional/physical job requirements.

Required Qualifications*
  • OR Instrument Processor I:
    • Graduate of Instrument Processing Program including completed externship
  • OR Instrument Processor II:
    • Certification
      Graduate of Instrument Processing Program including completed externship
      Minimum 1.5 years CSS experience
    • Demonstrated competency with 80% of trays within assigned work areas
      Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team, in addition to being able to take direction
    • Ability to take rotating weekend call, with 30-minute response time

Desired Qualifications*
  • 2+ years processing endoscopy equipment/instrumentation
  • Certified Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor (CFER) or Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (CER)
  • HS diploma/GED required
  • Reprocessing competency demonstration before hire or proof of completion of a scope reprocessing course and certificate of completion.
  • Must not be in any form of corrective action status per contract

Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world?s most distinguished academic health systems. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.
What Benefits can you Look Forward to?
  • Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
  • 2:1 Match on retirement savings

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Work Schedule
2p-1030p M-F covering BCSC, NHC, and East Ann Arbor.
Union Affiliation
This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the AFSCME union, which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.
Union Affiliation
This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the AFSCME union, which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.
Background Screening
Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of five calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the sixth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
281141
Working Title
Instrument/Sterilizer Processor l - ll
Job Title
OR INSTRUMENT PROC II
Work Location
Brighton
Brighton, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Nonexempt
Organizational Group
Um Hospital
Department
MM BCSC CSPD
Posting Begin/End Date
8/10/2026 - 8/17/2026
Salary
$54,400.00 - $57,824.00
Career Interest
Service/Maintenance (AFSCME Union)

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About University of Michigan

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The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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