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Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sterile Processing Tech

Decatur, IL · On-site

$17.14 - $26.56/hr

... Sterile Processing Lead Technician to facilitate daily plan for instrumentation need and turnaround. * Collaborates with instrument vendors, nursing and equipment tech personnel to actively ...

Sterile Processing Tech

Decatur, IL · On-site

$17.14 - $26.56/hr

... Sterile Processing Lead Technician to facilitate daily plan for instrumentation need and turnaround. * Collaborates with instrument vendors, nursing and equipment tech personnel to actively ...

... Sterile Processing Lead Technician to facilitate daily plan for instrumentation need and turnaround. * Collaborates with instrument vendors, nursing and equipment tech personnel to actively ...

Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time/Part Time: (40 hours) per week * Hours: 2:00pm-10:30pm rotating weekends and holidays required What you will need: * Education: GED/High ...

Sterile Processing Tech - Days

Skokie, IL · On-site

$19.89 - $28.84/hr

Position: Certified Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time/Part Time: (40 hours) per week * Hours: 6:00am-2:30pm rotating weekends and holidays required What you will need:

Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time/Part Time: (40 hours) per week * Hours: 2:00pm-10:30pm rotating weekends and holidays required What you will need: * Education: GED/High ...

Sterile Processing Tech - Nights

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.89 - $28.84/hr

Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Chicago, IL * Full Time/Part Time: 40 hours per week * Hours: 10:00pm-6:30am rotating weekends and holidays What you will need: * Education: GED/High School ...

Sterile Processing Tech * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time/Part Time: (40 hours) per week * Hours: 2:00pm-10:30pm rotating weekends and holidays required What you will need: * Education: GED/High ...

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Sterile Processing Tech information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$26

$42

How much do sterile processing tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing tech in Illinois is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $32.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sterile processing tech?

A Sterile Processing Tech, also known as a Sterile Processing Technician or Central Service Technician, is a healthcare professional responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing surgical instruments and medical equipment in hospitals and clinics. They play a critical role in preventing infections by ensuring all tools and equipment used in medical procedures are properly sanitized. Sterile Processing Techs work closely with surgical teams and other healthcare staff to maintain a safe and sterile environment. Their duties also include inventory management, documentation, and following strict protocols to meet regulatory standards.

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

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Tech, you need knowledge of infection control, instrument sterilization procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilization monitoring systems, and inventory management software is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring accuracy and teamwork. These skills and qualifications are vital to maintain patient safety, prevent infections, and support efficient surgical operations.

What are some common challenges sterile processing techs face when handling surgical instruments, and how are they addressed?

Sterile Processing Techs often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of surgical instruments under tight time constraints and ensuring strict adherence to sterilization protocols. These challenges are typically addressed through meticulous organization, ongoing training on new equipment, and close communication with surgical teams to prioritize urgent cases. Many facilities also use advanced tracking systems to monitor instrument sets, which helps minimize errors and improve workflow efficiency. Collaboration with operating room staff is key to anticipating needs and preventing delays.

What is the difference between Sterile Processing Tech vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSterile Processing TechSurgical Technologist
CertificationsCPD, CBSPD, or IAHCSMM certificationCertified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Work EnvironmentCentral sterile supply, hospitals, clinicsOperating rooms, surgical suites
Primary ResponsibilitiesSterilizing, disinfecting, and managing surgical instrumentsAssisting during surgeries, preparing operating rooms

While both roles support surgical procedures, Sterile Processing Techs focus on sterilizing and maintaining surgical instruments, whereas Surgical Technologists assist directly during surgeries. Both require specialized certifications and work in hospital settings, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

How do I become a sterile processing technician?

To become a sterile processing technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a formal training program or certification in sterile processing. On-the-job training is common, and knowledge of sterilization techniques, medical equipment, and safety protocols is essential; some employers prefer candidates with certification from organizations like the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).

How much money do sterile processing techs make?

Sterile processing technicians typically earn an average annual salary between $35,000 and $50,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They work in healthcare environments, handling sterilization of surgical instruments and using specialized equipment. Salaries can increase with additional certifications or advanced roles.

Is being a sterile processing technician worth it?

Sterile processing technicians play a vital role in healthcare by sterilizing and preparing medical equipment, ensuring patient safety. The job typically offers stable employment, competitive pay, and opportunities for certification and skill development, making it a worthwhile career for those interested in healthcare support roles.

Is it hard to get hired as a sterile processing technician?

Getting hired as a sterile processing technician can be competitive, but having relevant certifications such as CBSPD or ASPST and experience with sterilization equipment can improve job prospects. Employers often seek candidates with attention to detail, good organizational skills, and the ability to work in fast-paced healthcare environments.

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

The most popular types of Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Sterile Processing Tech jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Sterile Processing Tech job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Sterile Processing Tech jobs in IL?

For Sterile Processing Tech jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,415 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Sterile Processing Tech

Decatur, IL • On-site


Memorial Health
Health Care and Social Assistance • 5 - 10K employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 176 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

414th of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


$17.14 - $26.56/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Min
USD $17.14/Hr.
Max
USD $26.56/Hr.
Overview
  • Full time
  • Evening shift, 2pm - 10:30 pm
  • Weekend rotation

Assists with support of efficient and effective packaging, decontamination and handling of sterile medical products. Completes training in all of the areas of assembly, phones/case carts and decontamination and to pass a competency requirement of the department. At the completion of orientation, responsible for processing and reprocessing of reusable products as well as preparation of case cart. Participates in activities to analyze and improve sterile processing performance and support safety. Manages supplies, instrumentation, instrumentation repairs and equipment repair activities.
Qualifications
Education:
  • Graduation from high school or the equivalent required.

Licensure/Certification/Registry:
  • Certification as a Central Service Technician preferred within 18 months.

Experience:
  • Successful completion of orientation programs and competency requirements required within four months of hire.

Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Knowledgeable in the storage, handling and distribution of sterile medical products.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of surgical attire, aseptic techniques, event-related sterility, monitoring of environmental conditions, traffic patterns and other practices influencing maintenance of a sterile filed.
  • Demonstrates competence in the use of decontamination equipment, flash sterilization, and instrument sterilization.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of fire safety and evacuation routes.
  • Demonstrates excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Basic proficiency with personal computers and their associated applications.
  • Possess the ability to regularly lift, push and pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Demonstrates the ability to multi-task autonomously while working on multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
  • Demonstrates creativity, flexibility and the ability to resolve atypical problems.

Responsibilities
  1. Performs cleaning, inspection and protective measures after instrumentation use to ensure proper operation. Promptly identifies any defects and malfunctions. Takes proper steps in plan for repair or loaners from external vendors. Appropriately reports instrumentation and equipment removed from service for repair. Inspects items returned from repair prior to replacing into service.

  1. Consults with Sterile Processing Manager or Sterile Processing Lead Technician to facilitate daily plan for instrumentation need and turnaround.

  1. Collaborates with instrument vendors, nursing and equipment tech personnel to actively contribute to the instrumentation turnaround planned for specific surgical cases are available and prepared for use.

  1. Demonstrates competence in the use of decontamination equipment, flash/container sterilization and implements instrument sterilization.

  1. Examines the surgical environment for conditions that pose a safety risk and takes action to minimize risk.

  1. Verbally and nonverbally demonstrates a willingness to support organizational change and assists with the development of a plan to accomplish change. Functions to support a culture of teamwork and safety.

  1. Demonstrates knowledge of surgical attire, aseptic technique, event-related sterility, monitoring of environmental conditions, traffic patterns and other practices influencing maintenance of a sterile field.

  1. Demonstrates compliance with safety principles. Recognizes and reports unsafe conditions and contributes to their resolution. Demonstrates knowledge of fire safety and evacuation routes.

  1. Handles floor stock medications or medications delivered from pharmacy directly or through the pneumatic tube system. Relocates these medications, in original containers, to designated secure storage locations or delivers to the appropriate licensed staff.

  1. Performs other related work as required or requested.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.


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