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Sterile Processing Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UCHealth

Sterile Processing Lead

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$24.11 - $36.17/hr

Sterile Processing Work Schedule : Full Time, 1.0 FTE, Monday - Friday 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm Shift: Evenings Pay: $24.11 - $36.17 / hour. Pay is dependent on applicant's relevant experience This ...

UCHealth Colorado Career

Sterile Processing Lead

Pueblo, CO · On-site +1

$24.11 - $36.17/hr

Sterile Processing Work Schedule : Full Time, 1.0 FTE, Monday - Friday 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm Shift: Evenings Pay: 24.11 - 36.17 / hour. Pay is dependent on applicant's relevant experience This position ...

Endeavor Health

$21.08 - $31.62/hr

Lead Sterile Processing Tech-Sterile Processing Department-Evenings Position Highlights: * Position: Lead Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Naperville, IL * Full Time/Part Time: Full time * Hours ...

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How much do sterile processing lead jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing lead in the United States is $39.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $49.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sterile Processing Lead?

A Sterile Processing Lead is a healthcare professional responsible for overseeing the sterilization and preparation of medical instruments and equipment within a hospital or clinic. They supervise sterile processing technicians, ensure compliance with safety and sterilization standards, and coordinate workflow in the department. The role involves training staff, maintaining inventory, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring all instruments are properly cleaned, sterilized, and ready for surgical procedures. The Sterile Processing Lead plays a crucial role in infection control and patient safety.

What is the highest pay for a sterile processing technician?

The highest pay for a sterile processing technician can reach around $50,000 to $60,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, certifications, or supervisory roles like Sterile Processing Lead. Salaries vary based on location, healthcare facility, and level of expertise, with some top earners in large hospitals or specialized centers earning higher wages.

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

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Lead, you need in-depth knowledge of sterilization procedures, instrument decontamination, and compliance standards, typically supported by certification such as CRCST or CBSPD. Familiarity with automated sterilization equipment, tracking systems, and inventory management software is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and attention to detail are critical soft skills for training staff and maintaining quality assurance. These competencies ensure that medical instruments are consistently prepared to the highest standards, directly impacting patient safety and surgical outcomes.

Can you make 6 figures as a sterile processing technician?

Sterile processing technicians typically earn salaries below six figures, with most earning between $35,000 and $55,000 annually. However, experienced leads or those with additional certifications and responsibilities can sometimes approach or exceed $60,000, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or with overtime. Reaching a six-figure salary is uncommon for standard roles but may be possible with advanced positions or management responsibilities.

Will sterile processing be replaced by AI?

Sterile processing leads focus on sterilizing and preparing medical instruments, and while AI and automation can assist with inventory management and tracking, the core tasks require human oversight for quality control and handling complex instruments. AI is unlikely to fully replace sterile processing technicians due to the need for manual skills and judgment in ensuring patient safety.

How does a Sterile Processing Lead support team training and ensure compliance with safety standards?

A Sterile Processing Lead plays a key role in onboarding new technicians, providing ongoing training, and promoting adherence to infection control protocols. They often conduct regular audits, coach team members on best practices, and serve as a resource for troubleshooting equipment or procedural issues. By fostering a culture of accountability and continuous learning, the Lead helps the department maintain compliance with regulatory standards such as those set by The Joint Commission and AAMI. This position typically collaborates closely with surgical staff and other hospital departments to ensure timely and accurate instrument processing.

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

AspectSterile Processing LeadSterile Processing Technician
CertificationsCPD, CRCST, or CBSPD certification often preferredCPD, CRCST, or CBSPD certification typically required
Work EnvironmentSupervises team in hospital or surgical centerPerforms sterilization tasks in sterile processing department
ResponsibilitiesOversees sterilization processes, trains staff, ensures compliancePerforms sterilization, cleaning, and packaging of surgical instruments

The Sterile Processing Lead generally has more supervisory duties and requires certifications similar to the Sterile Processing Technician. While both roles work in sterile processing departments within healthcare facilities, the Lead oversees staff and processes, whereas the Technician focuses on executing sterilization tasks. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Sterile Processing Lead jobs
What cities are hiring for Sterile Processing Lead jobs? Cities with the most Sterile Processing Lead job openings:
What states have the most Sterile Processing Lead jobs? States with the most job openings for Sterile Processing Lead jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Sterile Processing Lead jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sterile Processing Lead jobs are:
Sterile Processing Lead jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Lead job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,362 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Sterile Processing Lead

AdventHealth Castle Rock

Castle Rock, CO

$23.78 - $44.22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Our promise to you:

Joining AdventHealth is about being part of something bigger. It’s about belonging to a community that believes in the wholeness of each person, and serves to uplift others in body, mind and spirit. AdventHealth is a place where you can thrive professionally, and grow spiritually, by Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ. Where you will be valued for who you are and the unique experiences you bring to our purpose-minded team. All while understanding that together we are even better.

All the benefits and perks you need for you and your family:

  • Benefits from Day One: Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance

  • Paid Time Off from Day One

  • 403-B Retirement Plan

  • 4 Weeks 100% Paid Parental Leave

  • Career Development

  • Whole Person Well-being Resources

  • Mental Health Resources and Support

  • Pet Benefits

Schedule:

Full time

Shift:

Day (United States of America)

Address:

2350 MEADOWS BLVD

City:

CASTLE ROCK

State:

Colorado

Postal Code:

80109

Job Description:

  • Performs routine tasks related to the decontamination, processing, sterilization, and distribution of instruments, equipment, and sterile supplies. 
  • Operates and monitors sterilization equipment, maintaining compliant records.
  • Maintains certification and provides training to certified and non-certified personnel.
  • Communicates with departments and staff throughout the day to ensure a smooth workflow.
  • Provides excellent customer service and maintains respectful relationships with all stakeholders.
  • Adheres to infection control and safety protocols at all times.
  • Completes daily task assignments and ensures all tasks are finished.
  • Assumes responsibility in the absence of leadership.
  • Participates in training and competency assessments for staff and hospital-wide educational projects.
  • Ensures proper handling and storage of sterile supplies and equipment. 
  • Monitors and maintains inventory levels of sterile supplies and equipment.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Organizational [Required]
  • Verbal Interpersonal [Required]
  • Customer Relations [Required]
  • Grammar/Spelling [Required]
  • Read/Comprehend written instructions [Required]
  • Follow verbal instructions [Required]
  • Keyboarding (manual) [Required]
  • Computer (visual) [Required]
  • Computer skills [Required]
     

Education:

  • High School Grad or Equiv [Required]


Field of Study:

  • N/A


Work Experience:

  • 2+ years of sterile equipment processing [Required]


Additional Information:

  • N/A


Licenses and Certifications:

  • Certified Registered Central Service Tech (CRCST) [Required] OR Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) [Required]
  • Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL) [Preferred] OR Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) [Preferred] OR Certified Endoscopy Reprocessor (CER) [Preferred] OR Certified Surgical Instrument Specialist (CSIS) [Preferred] OR Certified Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor (CFER) [Preferred] OR Certified in Sterile Processing Management (CSPM) [Preferred]


Physical Requirements: (Please click the link below to view work requirements)
Physical Requirements - https://tinyurl.com/2vvwrzem

Pay Range:

$23.78 - $44.22

This facility is an equal opportunity employer and complies with federal, state and local anti-discrimination laws, regulations and ordinances.

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