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Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

MedStar Health

Sterile Processing Tech

Olney, MD · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred Experience * 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or * Relevant hospital experience may be ...

MedStar Health

Sterile Processing Tech

Olney, MD · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred Experience * 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or * Relevant hospital experience may be ...

MedStar Health

Sterile Processing Tech

Olney, MD · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred Experience * 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or * Relevant hospital experience may be ...

MedStar Health

Sterile Processing Tech

Olney, MD · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred Experience * 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or * Relevant hospital experience may be ...

Inova

Sterile Processing Tech 2

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$22.76 - $37.10/hr

The Sterile Processing Tech 2 decontaminates instruments in a safe and appropriate manner. * Assembles instrumentation accurately and efficiently and ensures sterility of all processed items.

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Sterile Processing Tech information

See Washington salary details

$15

$31

$49

How much do sterile processing tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing tech in Washington is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $37.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 IAHCSMM 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 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 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.

How do I become a sterile processing tech?

To become a sterile processing technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a formal training program or certification in sterile processing. Certification from organizations like the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM) or the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) can improve job prospects and demonstrate competence. On-the-job training is also common in healthcare settings to develop skills in sterilization, equipment handling, and infection control protocols.
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What job categories do people searching Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Sterile Processing Tech jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Sterile Processing Tech job openings:
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Sterile Processing Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,769 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Sterile Processing Tech

MedStar Health

Olney, MD • On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Medstar Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 239 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

About the Job
General Summary of Position
Under direct supervision of the Team Lead performs specific sterile processing functions for the operating room and other patient care units as deemed operationally necessary following approved infection control quality assurance and departmental policies and procedures.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Clinical/Technical: Performs sterile processing functions. Cleans and decontaminates reusable medical devices following manufacturer's instructions and established policies. Inspects assembles packages and sterilizes reusable medical devices following manufacturer's instructions and established procedures. Transports all patient care equipment to SPD decontamination area. Manually cleans and disinfects select patient care equipment. Cleans and sterilizes loaner instrumentation as required to department policy procedure and IFUs. Cleans supply carts and operational equipment including ultrasonic cleaner washers and sterilizers as required by departmental policy and procedures. Examine test and monitor reprocessing equipment to ensure they are operating properly prior to daily use.
  • Coordination: Coordinates and maintains instruments and supplies according to department standards. Restocks supply carts in designated areas utilizing inventory control methods. Documents all cleaning activities in designated records. Returns clean patient care equipment to staging area. Records and maintains accurate daily records of all sterilization functions according to regulatory agencies and quality assurance standards.
  • Development: Maintains current knowledge certification and licensure. Identifies learning opportunities and initiates actions to address these education needs. Attends continuing education programs. Attends hospital sponsored training programs as required by the department. Meets all mandatory obligations.
  • Organizational knowledge: Works effectively within and between departments. Participates on inter-departmental teams and committees communicating unit knowledge as appropriate or participates in hospital related activities. Provides department/unit with information and knowledge acquired during participation with interdepartmental teams and committees. Demonstrates a constructive approach during all interactions with staff supervisors and managers both inside and outside the unit.
    • Minimal Qualifications
    Education
    • High School Diploma or GED or equivalent required
    • Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred
    Experience
    • 1-2 years 2 years experience in sterile processing preferred or
    • Relevant hospital experience may be considered preferred
    Licenses and Certifications
    • Certification as Central Service Technician preferred
    Knowledge Skills and Abilities
    • Basic Computer skills required
    • Ability to read write speak and comprehend English.
    • HIPAA policies on Confidentiality
    • Ability to work in a fast-paced Healthcare Services environment
    • Ability to perform tasks simultaneously while maintaining quality
    • Ability to actively engage in the department's performance improvement activities
    • Extensive knowledge of instrumentation preferred

    This position has a hiring range of
    USD $18.70 - USD $32.72 /Hr.

    What Medstar Health employees say

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    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

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    Get the full story on Breakroom

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    About Medstar Health

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    MedStar Health is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for people in Maryland and the Washington, D.C., region, while advancing the practice of medicine through education, innovation, and research. Our team of 32,000 includes physicians, nurses, residents, fellows, and many other clinical and non-clinical associates working in a variety of settings across our health system, including 10 hospitals and more than 300 community-based locations, the largest home health provider in the region, and highly respected institutes dedicated to research and innovation. As the medical education and clinical partner of Georgetown University for more than 20 years, MedStar Health is dedicated not only to teaching the next generation of doctors, but also to the continuing education, professional development, and personal fulfillment of our whole team. Together, we use the best of our minds and the best of our hearts to serve our patients, those who care for them, and our communities. It's how we treat people.

    Industry

    Health care and social assistance

    Company size

    10,000+ Employees

    Headquarters location

    Columbia, MD, US

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