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Sterile Processing Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... interns, fellows and other medical professionals. Recognizing its excellence in nursing care ... Ensures optimal sterile processing performance; through quality control and quality assurance of ...

Volunteer work and internships for academic credit are not counted. Certifications & Licensures Certified Registered Central Services Technician (CRCST) or Certified Board for Sterile Processing and ...

Volunteer work and internships for academic credit are not counted. Certifications & Licensures Certified Registered Central Services Technician (CRCST) or Certified Board for Sterile Processing and ...

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Sterile Processing Internship information

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$13

$27

$43

How much do sterile processing internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing internship 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.

What is a Sterile Processing Internship?

A Sterile Processing Internship is a hands-on training program designed for individuals who want to learn how to clean, sterilize, and prepare medical instruments and equipment for use in healthcare facilities. Interns work under the supervision of experienced sterile processing technicians and gain practical experience in decontamination, assembly, sterilization, and inventory management. This internship helps prepare participants for a career in sterile processing and may be required as part of a certification program. It also offers valuable exposure to hospital or clinical environments and helps interns develop essential skills needed for the profession.

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 foundational knowledge of infection control, instrument handling, and sterilization procedures, often gained through a high school diploma or enrollment in a sterile processing program. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilization tracking systems, and basic medical terminology is typically expected, and certification like the CRCST may be encouraged. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for maintaining safety and collaborating with surgical teams. These skills ensure that all medical instruments are properly sterilized, supporting patient safety and the smooth operation of healthcare facilities.

What are some common challenges faced during a Sterile Processing Internship, and how can interns successfully navigate them?

Sterile Processing Interns often encounter challenges such as managing a fast-paced workflow, adhering to strict infection control protocols, and mastering the use of specialized sterilization equipment. Interns may also need to quickly build familiarity with medical terminology and inventory tracking systems. Success in this internship often comes from proactively asking questions, seeking feedback from experienced staff, and staying organized. Building strong communication with the surgical and nursing teams can also help interns understand the importance of their role in patient safety.

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

AspectSterile Processing InternshipSterile Processing Technician
CredentialsTypically in progress or recent graduates, no certification requiredCertification often preferred or required (e.g., CBSPD, IAHCSMM)
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, educational focusFull-time hospital or surgical center, hands-on role
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, educational programsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, healthcare facilities

The main difference is that a Sterile Processing Internship is a training position for individuals gaining experience, often without certification, while a Sterile Processing Technician is a full-time role requiring certification and hands-on work in healthcare settings.

More about Sterile Processing Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Sterile Processing Internship jobs? Cities with the most Sterile Processing Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs are:
What states have the most Sterile Processing Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Sterile Processing Internship jobs include:
Manager, Sterile Processing

Manager, Sterile Processing

Mary Washington Healthcare

Fredericksburg, VA • On-site

$35.77 - $53.65/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Mary Washington Healthcare rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

301st of 882 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Start the day excited to make a difference...end the day knowing you did. Come join our team.
Job Summary:
Operate, direct and supervise the Sterile Processing areas and all its related systems in an efficient, effective manner. Coordinate the reprocessing of all supplies and equipment used in the healthcare facility. The reprocessing activities and functions include decontamination, preparation, packaging, and sterilization of surgical instrumentation, ordering, storage and distribution of medical supplies and mobile patient equipment management and preparation of surgical case carts and linen packs. Responsible for the planning, implementation, leading, revising and appraisal of the orientation, internship, preceptor and educational programs and all ongoing staff development for personnel in the Sterile Processing Department.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
  • Selects, develops, supervises, and evaluates departmental staff.
  • Prepares departmental reports and records (financial, budget, personnel, etc.).
  • Develops/amends written policies and procedures and ensures adherence.
  • Maintains operational costs at budget level.
  • Coordinates the processing and reassembly of medical supplies, equipment, and instrumentation with user departments.
  • Establishes and maintains quality control systems as they relate to infection control, sterilizer monitoring, packaging, and processing, etc., in accordance with institutional and departmental policy and regulatory agency requirements.
  • Maintains adequate inventories and distributes supplies as required to meet internal customer service and patient care demands.
  • Recommends cost reduction opportunities.
  • Participates in management courses and periodic continuing education programs and seminars.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of the organization's service standards and incorporate them into the performance of duties.
  • Effectively utilizes time management and prioritization to complete projects in a timely manner. Must be able to work rapidly, accurately and able to meet deadlines.
  • Demonstrates the ability to maximize resources and is skillful in adjusting resources according to the workload and volume.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of supervision principles by consistently utilizing problem analysis, group dynamics and staff skills analysis in an objective manner to effectively manage department personnel and resources.
  • Demonstrates knowledge in generating and interpreting statistical, productivity and quality performance reports and utilizes the data to improve the departments performance.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Healthcare Management or related field preferred.
  • Completion of formal Sterile Processing program with focus on supervision principles and/or certification in Healthcare Leadership concepts.
  • Two years manager/supervisory experience is required, experience in Sterile Processing and knowledge of related systems and equipment preferred.
  • Two years related experience required.
  • A thorough knowledge of the following is required: asepsis, principles of decontamination, disinfection, sterilization and infection control, surgical techniques, instrument care and maintenance, patient care equipment and associated consumable supplies and their use.
  • Functional knowledge of sterilization regulatory guidelines is required.
  • Strong communication, critical thinking and team building skills are required.
  • Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and technical expertise in sterile processing and inventory control principles. Requires the ability to see, hear and communicate clearly.

MWHC will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status (EOE). We are also committed to equitable and transparent compensation practices and comply with all applicable pay transparency and pay equity laws.
Required
Physical Requirements: Constant (67-100% of workday) sitting and use of arms and hands; occasional (0-33% of workday) standing, walking, bending, squatting; ability to lift, push, and pull up to 10 lbs.; auditory and visual skills.
Mental Requirements: Possesses critical thinking and analytical skills. Ability to multi-task. Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team.
Environmental Requirements and Exposure Hazards: Potential risk of exposure to chemicals.
"It is the policy of Mary Washington Healthcare to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with a disability who are applicants for employment or Associates."
Compensation Pay Range:
$35.77 - $53.65

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About Mary Washington Healthcare

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Join Mary Washington Healthcare, one of Virginia's fastest-growing healthcare systems and the region's premier healthcare provider. Our nursing jobs, allied health, and physician jobs promote growth through career advancement and support in an environment designed for success.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fredericksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1899