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Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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How much do sterile processing tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing tech in Iowa is $25.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $31.15 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.

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Sterile Processing Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,713 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Central Service Tech I - 1st Shift (50%)

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

462nd of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Department of Central Sterilizing Services is seeking to fill a part-time (50%) Central Service Technician on 1st shift. This position will be scheduled Sunday and Monday, 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. This position will be located within the Integrated Services Center in Coralville.

Under general supervision, this position performs technical duties involving all aspects of sterile processing: decontamination, preparation, packaging, sterilization, sterile storage, distribution of sterile medical devices and inventorying, stocking and distribution of medical supplies. 

Position Responsibilities: 

  • Decontaminates, inspects, cleans, sorts, disassembles and reassembles complex surgical instrument and implant trays, operates automatic endoscope washers, sonic washers, and mechanical washer/decontaminators.  Performs microbicidal processes, standard/transmission based precautions, engineering, and work practice controls.    Handles large volumes of complex, high dollar flexible endoscopes, delicate eye instruments, power equipment and different instrument patterns.
  • Accesses reference materials via computer systems, follows guides and instructions to assemble high volumes of complex of instrument and implant trays. Inspects and evaluates instruments for function and cleanliness. Confirms all quality assurance mechanisms are in place. Labels, seals and documents all items processed.
  • Performs all aspects of sterilization, packaging inspection, equipment operation, safety procedures, proper documentation, and prioritization.  Sterilizes items per manufacturer's instructions, verifies correct parameters used for all instruments.
  • Assembles instrument trays in accordance with patient/surgeon procedure specific cards within appropriate time frame and documents missing items.   Performs duties in a high stress environment, responds to emergencies and urgent add-on cases.  Receives and responds to a high volume of phone calls to provide additional items as needed.
  • Performs inventory management for high volume of supplies and implants. Monitors and replenishes stock levels through use of multiple computer software programs and checks stock expiration dates. Documents usages in inventory system, restocks items, and adds new items to inventory.
  • Performs regular biological monitoring of sterilizers to ensure sterilizer efficacy.  Conducts challenge tests on sterilization and decontamination equipment.  Performs preventative maintenance functions on all equipment.
  • Participates in and contributes to in-service programs on a regular basis.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Ability to move 25 lbs, push/pull, and perform repetitive motions

Merit Alpha Matrix | University Human Resources - The University of Iowa

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:

1.  High school graduation or equivalent, with courses in the physical and natural sciences and mathematics; or

2.   One year experience in a hospital-related field that would provide a background in medical environment or sterile technique as it applies to medical supplies and equipment.

Position and Application details:

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as required to the submission:

  • Resume

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 10 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check. This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

Please contact rachel-tortora@uiowa.edu with any questions.

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