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Sterile Processing Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cleveland Clinic

Sterile Processing Trainee

Akron, OH · On-site

As a Sterile Processing Trainee, you will train and gain hands-on exposure to and knowledge about every area in the Sterile Processing Department, helping establish a pathway to a successful career.

TNBR Careers

Sterile Processing Trainer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$44K - $66K/yr

Sterile Processing Trainer POSITION SUMMARY The Sterile Processing Trainer is responsible for ... Confers with and advises trainees on their clinical performance and progress. Adheres to clinical ...

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How much do sterile processing trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing trainee in the United States is $27.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Sterile Processing Trainees?

Sterile Processing Trainees are entry-level healthcare workers who learn to clean, disinfect, sterilize, and prepare medical instruments and equipment for use in surgeries and other medical procedures. They work under the supervision of experienced sterile processing technicians and follow strict protocols to prevent infections and ensure patient safety. Trainees gain hands-on experience in decontamination, packaging, and sterilization processes, and may eventually pursue certification to advance in their careers.

What is the difference between Sterile Processing Trainee vs Sterile Processing Technician?

AspectSterile Processing TraineeSterile Processing Technician
CertificationsOften in training, may not have full certification yetTypically certified or eligible for certification (CBSPD or IAHCSMM)
Work EnvironmentUnder supervision, learning procedures in hospitals or surgical centersPerforms sterilization and processing independently in healthcare settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sterilization tasks, learning protocolsExecuting sterilization, inspecting instruments, maintaining logs

The main difference between a Sterile Processing Trainee and a Sterile Processing Technician is experience and certification level. Trainees are in training, often supervised, while technicians are fully qualified to perform sterilization tasks independently. Both roles are essential in healthcare environments focused on patient safety and infection control.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sterile Processing Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Trainee, you need a basic understanding of infection control, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sterilization equipment, tracking systems, and certification such as CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) is often beneficial. Strong organization, communication, and teamwork skills are crucial for ensuring safety and efficiency. These abilities are essential for maintaining sterile environments, preventing infections, and supporting patient care in healthcare facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by a Sterile Processing Trainee, and how can they be overcome?

Sterile Processing Trainees often encounter challenges like mastering strict sterilization protocols, adapting to a fast-paced environment, and ensuring attention to detail with every instrument processed. These challenges can be addressed by seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, participating actively in on-the-job training, and consistently reviewing procedure manuals. Staying organized and asking questions when unsure helps reduce errors, while regular feedback from supervisors can support steady improvement and confidence in the role.
What cities are hiring for Sterile Processing Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Sterile Processing Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs are:
What states have the most Sterile Processing Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Sterile Processing Trainee jobs include:
Sterile Processing Trainee jobs near you
Sterile Processing Trainee

Sterile Processing Trainee

Cleveland Clinic

Akron, OH • On-site

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Cleveland Clinic rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 892 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

328th of 880 rated healthcare providers

Job description

USW Bid Period: 06/29/26 - 07/05/26

Join us at Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital, where we have been providing world-class care to our community for over 100 years. Here, we strive for patient-centered care and comfort with our collaborative team of healthcare professionals. We are committed to serving the community and treating our patients as family.

As a Sterile Processing Trainee, you will train and gain hands-on exposure to and knowledge about every area in the Sterile Processing Department, helping establish a pathway to a successful career. Training length is determined by your level of experience. Your time in the program will provide unmatched opportunities to excel as a caregiver support aid at one of the most respected hospital systems in the world.

A caregiver in this role works evenings from 2:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. with rotating weekend and holiday requirements after completion of training.

A caregiver who excels in this role will:

  • Complete training in all areas of the Sterile Processing Department and portions of the Surgical Suite, such as decontamination, assembly area sterilization, house table and OR instrumentation, sterile storage, running, case cart picking, pack rooms and equipment testing.
  • Follow daily assignments and exhibit flexibility when asked to change assignments.
  • Collect and clean instruments and equipment after using patient procedures.
  • Inspect equipment and instrumentation for malfunction and/or missing parts and report them to Sterile Processing management.
  • Assemble instruments and equipment.
  • Use the daily Production Screen and Key Supply List and cart/tray markers.
  • Wrap and/or place equipment or instruments needing sterilization in sterion containers.
  • Sterilize equipment and instruments using all methods of sterilization and high-level disinfection and complete the appropriate documentation required for the sterilization procedure.
  • Assist in stocking and maintaining an adequate inventory of instruments, equipment and supplies.
  • Perform daily and monthly cleaning and documentation.
  • Provide ORs with equipment and instrumentation per their request.
  • Attend and achieve 100% attendance at all mandatory in-service programs, both departmental- and hospital-wide.

Minimum qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Have and retain the following certification(s) within 18 months of hire: Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or Certified Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD)

Preferred qualifications for the ideal future caregiver include:

  • Sterile Processing experience
  • Surgical Technician experience
  • Working knowledge of Operating Room (OR) instrumentation
  • Customer service experience
  • Hospital experience


Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to perform duties while standing, sitting, stooping, and reaching for prolonged periods of time. Requires standing and walking for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to lift and carry items weighing 25 pounds on a continual basis; ability to push, pull, and navigate carts weighing up to 100 pounds.
  • Possible exposure to biological and chemical contamination.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to perform basic functions of position day to day instrument counting, sorting and assembly. Requires corrected hearing and vision to normal range.
  • Must be able to distinguish basic colors and shades of colors to utilize color-coded systems used for instrument identification. All applicants will be required to be prescreened for color blindness by our Occupational Health Department.


Personal Protective Equipment:

  • Follows standard precautions using personal protective equipment as required

Pay Range

Salaries [which may be] shown on independent job search websites reflect various market averages and do not represent information obtained directly from The Cleveland Clinic. Because we value each individual candidate, we invite and encourage each candidate to discuss salary/hourly specifics during the application and hiring process.

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