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Sterile Processing Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Processes records of medication dispensed to patient, computes charges, and generates required ... Prepares sterile and non-sterile compounds per USP standards. * Maintains positive relationships ...

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Sterile Processing Intern information

What is a sterile processing intern?

Sterile processing interns are individuals who are training in the field of sterile processing, usually as part of a formal education program or on-the-job training. They work under the supervision of certified sterile processing technicians to learn how to clean, disinfect, sterilize, and distribute surgical instruments and equipment in healthcare settings. Their responsibilities may include assembling instrument trays, operating sterilization equipment, and following strict infection control protocols. The internship helps them gain hands-on experience and prepares them for certification and a career in sterile processing.

What are the typical responsibilities of a sterile processing intern during a shift?

As a Sterile Processing Intern, you can expect to assist with cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing medical instruments and equipment used in surgeries and patient care. Your duties may include sorting and assembling instrument trays, operating sterilization equipment, and maintaining accurate records of processed items. Interns often work closely with experienced sterile processing technicians and surgical teams to ensure all tools meet strict safety standards. This hands-on experience helps you gain familiarity with hospital protocols and the critical role sterile processing plays in patient safety.

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

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Intern, you need a basic understanding of infection control, proper handling of surgical instruments, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilization tracking systems, and completion of a sterile processing technician certification program (such as CBSPD or CRCST) is often required or preferred. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure that surgical instruments are properly sterilized, reducing infection risks and supporting safe, efficient healthcare operations.

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

AspectSterile Processing InternSterile Processing Technician
CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recently completed relevant training or certification programsCertified Sterile Processing Technician (CBSPD or IAHCSMM certification often preferred)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, or healthcare facilities; supervised, learning-focusedFull-time role in sterilization departments; responsible for processing surgical instruments
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sterilization tasks, observing procedures, gaining hands-on experienceCleaning, sterilizing, and distributing surgical instruments, maintaining sterilization records

The main difference between a Sterile Processing Intern and a Sterile Processing Technician is experience and responsibility level. Interns are typically students or recent trainees gaining exposure, while technicians are fully responsible for sterilization tasks and often hold certifications. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings to ensure patient safety and proper instrument sterilization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in California?

The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sterile Processing Intern jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sterile Processing Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Intern job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Internship, 49% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Pharmacy Intern - PRN Days

ScionHealth

San Leandro, CA • On-site

$22 - $23.35/hr

Per diem, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


ScionHealth rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

806th of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Kindred Hospital San Francisco Bay Area is a 99-bed long-term acute care hospital offering the same in-depth care you would receive in a traditional hospital, but for an extended recovery period. We partner with your physician and offer 24-hour clinical care seven days a week so you can start your journey to wellness. For those who need special care, we offer a 10-bed ICu and two negative pressure rooms. We are located about 7 miles east of Oakland International Airport right off MacArthur Freeway (I-580).
Job Summary
Assists with medication preparation, repacking, and dispensing under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Supports medication reconciliation and clinical monitoring to assure medications are safe and effective. Adheres to state and federal regulations. Reports to the Director of Pharmacy.
Essential Functions
  • Assists Pharmacist to prepare and dispense medication.
  • Prepares and delivers medications to patient care units as appropriate.
  • Restocks and manages expiration dating in automated medication dispensing machine inventory.
  • Orders and stores medications.
  • Properly unit doses medications that do not come prepackaged.
  • Processes records of medication dispensed to patient, computes charges, and generates required computer reports as needed. Performs backup procedures correctly.
  • Monitors drug therapy for appropriateness under the supervision of the licensed pharmacist.
  • Provides and documents clinical interventions, therapy recommendations, and other clinical activities according to department policy and procedure and state regulations.
  • Participates in the Medication Reconciliation activities of the Pharmacy Department.
  • Prepares sterile and non-sterile compounds per USP standards.
  • Maintains positive relationships with all customers.
  • Complies with regulatory and accreditation standards.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations
  • Good math and science skills
  • Approximate percent of time required to travel: 0%
  • Must read, write and speak fluent English.
  • Must have good and regular attendance.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned

Pay range: $22.00 - $23.35/Hr
ScionHealth has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit-eligible employees that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), FSA/HSA, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, and Wellness.
Qualifications
Education
  • Actively enrolled in or graduate of ACPE accredited college of pharmacy or FPEGC certification.

Licenses/Certification
  • Pharmacy Intern Licensure as required by the state.
  • BCLS certification.

Experience
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience as a Pharmacy Technician in a hospital pharmacy setting preferred.
  • Basic understanding of the role of and use of a computer in the processing of prescription orders with minimum word processing skills.

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