ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Sterile Processing Tech Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSterile Processing Tech JobsSterile Processing Tech Jobs in Elgin, IL

Sterile Processing Tech information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$13

$27

$43

How much do sterile processing tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing tech in Elgin, IL is $27.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $32.79 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 popular job titles related to Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Elgin, IL? For Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Sterile Processing Tech jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Sterile Processing Tech jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Sterile Processing Tech job openings:
Sterile Processing Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Tech job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,529 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Sterile Processing Tech

Ascension

Elk Grove Village, IL

$19.58 - $26.09/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Ascension Healthcare rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 1,038 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

416th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Your future role at a glance

Location: Elk Grove Village, IL

Facility: Ascension Alexian Brothers

Department:  Sterile Processing

Schedule: Night shift | Full-time | 10:30 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. Monday - Friday, weekends and Holidays

Salary range : $19.58- $26.09 per hour

How you'll make an impact in this role
  • Clean soiled instruments, sterilization containers, and equipment according to established protocols.
  • Examine all surgical instruments, sets, and containers to ensure proper sterilization, cleanliness, functionality, and completeness.
  • Adjust instrument sets to meet current standards using established count sheets and instrument tracking systems.
  • Ensure appropriate levels of equipment and supplies are available for case carts.
What minimum qualifications you'll need

Licensure / Certification / Registration:

  • Central Service Tech specializing in Sterile Processing credentialed from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association preferred.
  • Central Service Tech specializing in Sterile Processing credentialed from the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) preferred.

Education:

  • High School diploma equivalency OR 1 year of applicable cumulative job specific experience required.
  • Note: Required professional licensure/certification can be used in lieu of education or experience, if applicable.
What additional requirements you'll need
  • Certified Sterile Processing Tech
Life at Ascension: Where purpose meets opportunity

Ascension is a leading nonprofit Catholic health system with a culture and associate experience grounded in service, growth, care and connection. We empower our 97,000+ associates to bring their skills and expertise every day to reimagining healthcare, together. Recognized as one of the Best 150+ Places to Work in Healthcare and a Military-Friendly Gold Employer, you'll find an inclusive and supportive environment where your contributions truly matter.

Equal employment opportunity employer

Equal employment opportunity employer

Ascension provides Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) to all associates and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, lactation, breastfeeding, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, all as defined by applicable law, and any other legally protected status or characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. For further information, view the EEO Know Your Rights (English) poster or EEO Know Your Rights (Spanish) poster.

Fraud prevention notice

Prospective applicants should be vigilant against fraudulent job offers and interview requests. Scammers may use sophisticated tactics to impersonate Ascension employees. To ensure your safety, please remember: Ascension will never ask for payment or to provide banking or financial information as part of the job application or hiring process. Our legitimate email communications will always come from an @ascension.org email address; do not trust other domains, and an official offer will only be extended to candidates who have completed a job application through our authorized applicant tracking system.

E-Verify statement

Employer participates in the Electronic Employment Verification Program. Please click here for more information.

Benefits

Paid time off (PTO)Various health insurance options & wellness plansRetirement benefits including employer match plansLong-term & short-term disabilityEmployee assistance programs (EAP)Parental leave & adoption assistanceTuition reimbursementWays to give back to your community

Benefit options and eligibility vary by position. Compensation varies based on factors including, but not limited to, experience, skills, education, performance, location and salary range at the time of the offer.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Ascension Healthcare employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Ascension logo

About Ascension

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ascension is a leading non-profit, faith-based national health system made up of over 150,000 associates and 2,600 sites of care, including more than 140 hospitals and 40 senior living communities in 19 states.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and outpatient health care

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

St. Louis, MO, US

View All Ascension Jobs

Apply