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Sterile Processing Instrument Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Sterile Processing Instrument information

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How much do sterile processing instrument jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 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 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,665 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Sterile Processing Tech II - Full Time - Night Shift

Sterile Processing Tech II - Full Time - Night Shift

Cedars Sinai

Los Angeles, CA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Cedars-Sinai rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 130 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 1,020 rated hospitals


Job description

Grow your career at Cedars-Sinai!

At Cedars-Sinai, we're motivated by a collective spirit of innovation and the challenge to continuously improve. Above all, we share a real passion for helping others. Day after day, from department to department, our people give their all to create a community unlike any other. This is just one of the many reasons U.S. News & World Report has named us one of America's Best Hospitals-and now we invite you to join us and make a difference every single day in service of this outstanding work - excellence and innovation in patient care, research, and community service. From working with a team of dedicated professionals to using state-of-the-art facilities, you'll have great resources to do something incredible-for yourself, and for others.

What you will be doing in this role?

Under direct supervision, the Sterile Processing Tech II is responsible for retrieval and decontamination of soiled instruments, containers and case carts. Completes sterile processing tasks pertaining to the inspection, testing, assembly, packaging, sterilizing and delivery of instruments and other reusable medical devices according to departmental policies and industry best practice standards. Works closely with end user departments for supplies and equipment and maintains established inventory levels of sterile instrumentation/supplies. Inspects and identifies instruments needing repair by following established repair procedures. Inspects and identifies instruments needing repair by following established repair guidelines and procedures. Demonstrates an understanding and awareness of quality control/assurance expectations for sterile processing operations.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs Sterile Processing functions and assorted support duties in decontamination and clean assembly areas in a safe and technical manner consistent with departmental policies and procedures, and best practice standards pertinent to Sterile processing operations. This may include assignment to OR areas typically under the guidance of a Sterile Processing Tech III or Supervisor.
  • Inspects, tests and assembles instrument trays, using protocol sheets and Manufactures Instructions for Use (IFU) documents as a guide when preparing for sterilization.
  • Sterilizes hospital instruments, utensils, linen and supplies using high temperature, low temperature and high-level disinfection according to established procedures and following regulatory requirements. Dispenses requested sterile and clean supplies/equipment. Assigns priority to emergency requests and issues. Communicates challenges and issues with SP Technicians III or Supervisor for resolution.
  • Disassembles and cleans instrumentation and equipment. Reassembles instrumentation and tests for proper functioning. Tags any instrumentation needing repair for the Sterile Processing Instrument Coordinator or Repair Technicians or Clinical Engineering. Wears personal protective gear when washing and disinfecting equipment and instruments.
  • Delivers missing instruments or pickups and/or replaces malfunctioning or damaged instruments as needed from applicable OR units as assigned and escalate issues to a Sterile Processing Tech III or Supervisor or another designee.
  • Submits incomplete instrument list if replacement instruments are needed, missing from tray or damaged. Uses computerized instrument tracking system and refers to manufacture's IFU's. Containerizes or wraps all trays using proper protocols and procedures.
  • Maintains assigned work area in a clean and organized condition to maintain required standards for handling sterilized and clean materials and to maintain a safe work environment.

Learn more about Cedars-Sinai SPD at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yn2bbfhyuSM

Job Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma/GED required.
  • At least one (1) year in sterile processing or surgical technologist experience
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills.
  • Valid Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST).

Why work here?

Beyond outstanding employee benefits (including health, vision, dental and life insurance, paid time off and a 403(B)) we take pride in hiring the best employees. Our accomplished and compassionate staff reflects the culturally and ethnically diverse community we serve. They are proof of our dedication to creating a dynamic, inclusive environment that fuels innovation.

Job Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma/GED required.
  • At least one (1) year in sterile processing or surgical technologist experience
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills.
  • Valid Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST).

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