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Sterile Processing Instrument Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$22.90 - $34.35/hr

As a Sterile Processing Instrument Specialist, you'll be the operational heartbeat that ensures every instrument set, supply, and repair is exactly where it needs to be-when it needs to be there. In ...

The Sterile Processing Instrument Technician, under general supervision follows robust processes in Decontamination, Processing and Sterilization by cleaning instruments and equipment ensuring that ...

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in sterile processing, instrument decontamination, assembly, sterilization procedures, and maintaining compliance with infection prevention standards ...

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Sterile Processing Instrument information

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How much do sterile processing instrument jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing instrument in the United States is $23.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sterile Processing Instrument Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Instrument Technician, you need knowledge of sterilization procedures, infection control, and handling of surgical instruments, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with autoclaves, decontamination equipment, and tracking systems like instrument management software is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and safety. These skills are vital to prevent infection, maintain surgical readiness, and support patient safety in healthcare environments.

What are the typical challenges faced in a Sterile Processing Instrument role, and how can I prepare for them?

One of the main challenges in a Sterile Processing Instrument role is maintaining strict adherence to infection control protocols while working under time constraints, especially in busy healthcare settings. Team members must stay organized, pay close attention to detail, and handle specialized equipment safely and efficiently. To prepare, familiarize yourself with proper sterilization techniques, develop strong communication skills for coordinating with surgical and nursing staff, and stay up-to-date with industry standards. Adapting to frequent workflow changes and prioritizing tasks effectively will help you excel in this dynamic environment.

What is a Sterile Processing Instrument Technician?

A Sterile Processing Instrument Technician is a healthcare professional responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing medical instruments and equipment used in surgeries and other medical procedures. They play a critical role in preventing infections by ensuring that all instruments are properly decontaminated and safe to use. These technicians work in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities, following strict protocols and using specialized equipment to maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety.

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

AspectSterile Processing InstrumentSterile Processing Technician
CertificationsOften requires certification in sterile processing or central sterile processingRequires certification such as CBSPD or IAHCSMM
Work EnvironmentPrimarily involved in instrument handling, cleaning, and sterilization processesPerforms sterilization, assembly, and quality checks in healthcare settings
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, surgical centers, outpatient facilities

Both roles focus on sterilizing and processing surgical instruments, but Sterile Processing Instrument typically refers to the specific tools or roles involved in instrument handling, while Sterile Processing Technician is a broader job title encompassing the entire sterilization process. They often overlap in duties and certifications, making them closely related in the healthcare industry.

More about Sterile Processing Instrument jobs
What cities are hiring for Sterile Processing Instrument jobs? Cities with the most Sterile Processing Instrument job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing Instrument jobs? The most popular types of Sterile Processing Instrument jobs are:
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Instrument job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 50% Physical, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,665 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Sterile Processing Instrument Specialist

Sterile Processing Instrument Specialist

Advocate Health

High Point, NC • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Advocate Aurora Health rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 761 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

181st of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Join a team that plays a critical role in supporting safe, efficient surgical care. As a Sterile Processing Instrument Specialist, you'll be the operational heartbeat that ensures every instrument set, supply, and repair is exactly where it needs to be—when it needs to be there. In this role, you'll coordinate closely with vendors, surgical teams, and Sterile Processing staff across multiple facilities, keeping workflows smooth and eliminating delays. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love solving problems, and take pride in maintaining exceptional quality standards, this role is a perfect fit.

Essential Functions

  • Coordinate instrument repairs with approved vendors and maintain a detailed tracking log for all items sent off-site.
  • Assess surgical case schedules to determine which instrument sets can be temporarily removed for maintenance.
  • Manage procurement, receipt, and return of loaner, vendor, and trial instrument sets.
  • Order new and replacement supplies/instruments based on inventory levels, par levels, iShare requests, and managerial direction—while supporting adherence to departmental budgets.
  • Assist in resolving instrument and product recalls promptly to ensure patient safety.
  • Maintain and update the department's instrument tracking system, including entering new instruments and building count sheets.
  • Partner with SPD Liaisons to ensure instrument sets are complete, available, and ready for use.
  • Communicate effectively with SPD Supervisors, SPD Liaisons, and OR Clinical Coordinators regarding instrument availability.
  • Serve as an expert in all stages of the sterile processing cycle, offering guidance and education to SPD team members.
  • Participate in special projects and interdepartmental committees as needed.
  • Assist with Sterile Processing staffing support when required.

Education & Experience Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum two years of experience in Sterile Processing.

Licensure/Certification Requirements

  • Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) or other sterile processing certification required.
  • Certification as a Surgical Instrument Specialist required within one year of hire.

Shift

Monday–Friday, 3:00pm–11:30pm

What Advocate Aurora Health employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Advocate Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Advocate Healthcare, based in Oak Lawn, Illinois, United States, is a leading figure in the health care industry. Accessible via their official website, 'advocatehealth.com', this organization provides a wide variety of medical services and treatment options. Founded in 1995 through a merger of Evangelical Health Systems Corporation and Lutheran General HealthSystem, Advocate Healthcare has grown exponentially over the years. Now, it operates more than 400 sites of care, including 12 hospitals that encompass 11 acute care hospitals, the state’s largest integrated children’s network, five Level I trauma centers, and three Level II trauma centers. Upholding their values of equality, compassion, excellence, partnership and stewardship, Advocate Healthcare's mission is centered on building lifelong relationships with patients by delivering the best health outcomes and highest level of service through an integrated approach to care and wellness.

Industry

Hospitals and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Oak Lawn, IL, US