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Sterile Processing Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HENRY MAYO NEWHALL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

This position requires certification and demonstrated competency in all aspects of sterile processing operations and is primary point of contact for resolving issues and answering questions. The Lead ...

Inova

Sterile Processing Technician Lead

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$19.12 - $31.17/hr

Inova Loudoun Hospital is looking for a dedicated Sterile Processing Technicians Lead to join the team! This role will be full-time (40 hrs/week) night shift working Monday-Friday, 11:00pm-7:00am. We ...

Inova

Sterile Processing Technician Lead

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Inova Loudoun Hospital is looking for a dedicated Sterile Processing Technicians Lead to join the OR team. This role will be full-time (40 hrs/week) Day shift working Monday to Friday and every other ...

MUSC

Sterile Processing Supervisor

Charleston, SC · On-site

This role directly supervises Lead Technicians, Sterile Processing Technicians I, II, III, and Non-Certified Technicians, and is responsible for daily workflow coordination, staff competency, quality ...

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Sterile Processing Lead information

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How much do sterile processing lead jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 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.

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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 Technician Lead

Inova Health System

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

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

Job description

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital is looking for a dedicated Sterile Processing Technicians Lead to join the OR team. This role will be a full-time day shift opportunity, working Monday to Friday and every other weekend from 6:00am to 2:30pm. We offer great pay based on experience, plus, don't forget about our other amazing benefits and perks!

Inova is consistently ranked a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Inova Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, and more

Sterile Processing Technicians Lead Job Responsibilities:

  • The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently.
  • Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.
  • Assumes leadership and supervisory role within the department.
  • Decontaminates instruments in a safe and appropriate manner.
  • Ensures sterility of all processed items.
  • Maintain instruments and ensure timely distribution to all customers.
  • Manages instrument inventory and ensures timely distribution of instruments to all customers.
  • Trains others to be competent in all areas of sterilization.
  • May perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: High School diploma, GED or equivalent
  • Experience: Two-year Sterile Processing experience required.
  • Certification CRCST or CBSPD certification from The International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (CRCST) or Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).

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