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Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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.

The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently. * Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.

The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently. * Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.

The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently. * Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.

The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently. * Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.

The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently. * Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.

Showing results 21-40

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Washington? The most popular types of 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:
What are popular job titles related to Sterile Processing Tech jobs in WA? For Sterile Processing Tech jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 Technician Lead

Inova Health System

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

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


Inova Health System rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 259 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

266th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital is looking for a dedicated Sterile Processing Technicians Lead to join the OR team. This role will be a full-time day shift opportunity, working Monday to Friday and every other weekend from 6:00am to 2:30pm. We offer great pay based on experience, plus, don't forget about our other amazing benefits and perks!

Inova is consistently ranked a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Inova Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, and more

Sterile Processing Technicians Lead Job Responsibilities:

  • The Sterile Processing Tech Lead assembles complex trays and instrumentation accurately and efficiently.
  • Prioritizes instruments and uses critical thinking skills to provide solutions for OR needs.
  • Assumes leadership and supervisory role within the department.
  • Decontaminates instruments in a safe and appropriate manner.
  • Ensures sterility of all processed items.
  • Maintain instruments and ensure timely distribution to all customers.
  • Manages instrument inventory and ensures timely distribution of instruments to all customers.
  • Trains others to be competent in all areas of sterilization.
  • May perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: High School diploma, GED or equivalent
  • Experience: Two-year Sterile Processing experience required.
  • Certification CRCST or CBSPD certification from The International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (CRCST) or Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).

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