1

Sterile Processing Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Certification: Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM) strongly preferred

Certification: Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM) strongly preferred

next page

Showing results 1-20

Sterile Processing Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$40

$68

How much do sterile processing manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing manager in Chicago, IL is $40.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.47 and $50.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sterile processing manager?

A sterile processing manager is in charge of the sterilization of surgical instruments and equipment, so they typically work in a hospital or outpatient clinic. Job duties include keeping operating rooms stocked, cleaning medical equipment, verifying that supplies have proper packing, and maintaining documentation. A sterile processing manager may also manage inventory of cleaning supplies and teach new employees how to disinfect surgical instruments and equipment according to medical standards.

What does a sterile processing manager do?

A Sterile Processing Manager oversees the sterilization and disinfection of medical instruments and equipment in healthcare facilities. They manage the sterile processing department, ensure compliance with safety and infection control standards, and supervise staff responsible for cleaning, assembling, and distributing medical devices. Their responsibilities also include inventory management, staff training, and staying updated with regulatory requirements to maintain a safe environment for patients and staff.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sterile processing manager?

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Manager, you need expertise in sterilization techniques, infection control, inventory management, and typically a certification such as CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) or CSPDT (Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician). Familiarity with sterilization equipment, tracking systems like instrument management software, and regulatory standards such as AAMI and OSHA guidelines is critical. Leadership, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help manage teams and ensure compliance with safety protocols. These skills are vital for maintaining patient safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient operations in healthcare environments.

What are some common challenges faced by sterile processing managers, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Sterile Processing Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict regulatory compliance, ensuring staff competency, and adapting to evolving technology in instrument sterilization. Addressing these challenges involves ongoing staff education, implementing robust quality assurance protocols, and fostering open communication with surgical teams to anticipate needs and resolve issues promptly. Staying proactive with professional development and establishing strong relationships with vendors and other departments also helps ensure efficiency and a consistently safe environment for both patients and staff.

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

AspectSterile Processing ManagerSterile Processing Technician
CertificationsCBSPD or IAHCSMM certification often requiredTypically requires certification like CBSPD or IAHCSMM
Work EnvironmentSupervises sterile processing departments in hospitals or clinicsPerforms sterilization and processing tasks in sterile processing departments
ResponsibilitiesOversees staff, manages compliance, and ensures sterilization standardsOperates sterilization equipment, cleans, and prepares instruments

The Sterile Processing Manager oversees the entire sterile processing department, focusing on management, compliance, and staff supervision. In contrast, the Sterile Processing Technician handles the hands-on sterilization tasks. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but their responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Sterile Processing Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Sterile Processing Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,881 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Sterile Processing Supervisor

Surgery Partners

Lombard, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Surgery Partners rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

164th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Summary:

The Sterile Processing Manager is responsible for the overall operations of the Sterile Processing Department (SPD) at the surgery center. This role ensures the effective decontamination, preparation, sterilization, storage, and distribution of surgical instruments and equipment in accordance with regulatory standards and infection control practices. The manager oversees daily workflow, staffing, quality assurance, and compliance with applicable policies and procedures to ensure the highest level of patient safety and surgical support.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Direct and supervise all activities within the Sterile Processing Department.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor policies and procedures for instrument processing and sterilization in compliance with AAMI, AORN, OSHA, CDC, and state/federal guidelines.
  • Hire, train, schedule, and evaluate SPD staff; provide ongoing education and competency assessment.
  • Maintain accurate records of sterilization processes, biological testing, and equipment maintenance.
  • Collaborate with surgical and nursing teams to ensure timely availability of sterile instruments and equipment.
  • Oversee inventory management and coordinate procurement of sterile processing supplies.
  • Conduct audits and inspections to ensure quality control and regulatory compliance.
  • Lead and participate in performance improvement initiatives.
  • Ensure all equipment functions properly; arrange for repairs or replacements as necessary.
  • Act as a liaison between SPD and other departments to resolve issues and enhance efficiency.

 

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED required; Associate or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
  • Certification in Sterile Processing and Distribution (CRCST) preferred.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in sterile processing, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
  • Strong knowledge of surgical instrumentation, decontamination, sterilization, and regulatory requirements.
  • Proficient in inventory and workflow management systems.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

Physical Demands:

  • Standing/Walking: Must be able to stand and walk for up to 8-10 hours per shift.
  • Lifting/Carrying: Frequently lift and carry items up to 25 pounds, occasionally up to 50 pounds.
  • Pushing/Pulling: Regularly push/pull carts weighing up to 200 pounds.
  • Reaching/Handling: Frequent reaching, bending, stooping, and handling of small instruments and equipment.
  • Manual Dexterity: Required for operating and assembling delicate surgical instruments.
  • Visual Acuity: Must be able to visually inspect instruments for cleanliness and integrity.
  • Environmental Exposure: May be exposed to chemicals, disinfectants, and varying temperatures and noise levels. Use of PPE is required.

Work Environment:

  • Work in fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment.
  • Frequent exposure to bloodborne pathogens and biohazardous materials.
  • Must adhere strictly to infection prevention protocols and safety procedures.

What Surgery Partners employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom