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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 Kentucky is $23.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $28.80 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 Kentucky?

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Kentucky are:

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

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Sterile Processing Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,668 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Sterile Processing Tech or Senior Sterile Processing Tech, 7p-3:30a

Norton Healthcare

Louisville, KY • On-site

Full-time

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

Norton Healthcare rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

269th of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Responsibilities
When you are an employee at Norton Healthcare, you will find real meaning and purpose in your work. Because of the care we provide, more people choose Norton Healthcare for their health care needs than any other system in the community. Discover a rewarding career as a Sterile Processing Tech or Senior Sterile Processing Tech.
Sterile Processing Tech Responsibilities
  • Perform technical duties necessary for the decontamination, processing, sterilization and distribution of supplies and equipment for the entire hospital
  • Follow established hospital protocol, policies, procedures and central sterile standards for all patient populations served within a team environment using strong attention to detail, strong organizational & prioritization skills, effective communications, critical thinking, and basic computer skills.

Sterile Processing Tech
  • Not yet certified? We have opportunities to learn and grow as a sterile processing tech in one of our five area hospitals.
  • Must obtain one of: CIS, CRCST or CSPDT certification through HSPA or CBSPD within the first two years of employment. The technician must sit for the exam within the first 12 months of employment.

Certified Senior Sterile Processing Tech
  • Certified? We have opportunities to work under the full scope of practice as a sterile processing tech throughout our five area hospitals.
  • Senior Sterile Processing Tech roles require three years of experience in Sterile Processing & Central Service or three years as a Surgical Tech; and certification as CIS, CRCST, or CSPDT.

As an employee, you will have access to a variety of programs to enhance your experience and well-being, including learning and career growth opportunities, an employee wellness program, employee resource groups and volunteer opportunities.
To discuss our Sterile Processing Tech or Senior Sterile Processing Tech opportunities, please apply to this posting.
Qualifications
Required:
  • For Sterile Processing Tech - Must obtain one of: CIS, CRCST or CSPDT certification through HSPA or CBSPD within the first two years of employment. The technician must also sit for the exam within the first 12 months of employment.
  • For Senior Sterile Processing Tech - Must have three years of experience in Sterile Processing & Central Service or three years as a Surgical Tech; and certification as CIS, CRCST, or CSPDT

Desired:
  • One year Sterile Processing/Central Service or One year as an OR tech
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL), and Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (CER)

What Norton Healthcare employees say

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About Norton Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Norton Healthcare is a not-for-profit hospital and health care system and is Louisville's second largest employer, with more than 18,000 employees, over 1,700 employed medical providers and approximately 2,000 total physicians on its medical staff. The system includes six hospitals (five in Louisville and one in Madison, Indiana) with 1,993 licensed beds, eight outpatient centers, 18 Norton Immediate Care Centers, eight Norton Prompt Care at Walgreens clinics and an expanded telehealth program. It provides care at more than 340 locations throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Louisville, KY, US

Year founded

1988

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