1

Sterile Processing Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA

As a trainee, the Scientist 1 must have the ability to assimilate and apply information rapidly ... Raw material, In-process and finished goods testing when thorough training has been completed.

As a trainee, the Scientist 1 must have the ability to assimilate and apply information rapidly ... Raw material, In-process and finished goods testing when thorough training has been completed.

Sterile Processing Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$28

$45

How much do sterile processing trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing trainee in Riverside, CA is $28.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sterile processing trainee?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sterile processing trainee?

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 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 most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Sterile Processing Trainee jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Sterile Processing Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Trainee job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,660 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Scientist I

Fortive

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Fortive rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Location: Irvine, CA
Shift: Sunday - Thursday OR Tuesday - Saturday
The Scientist Level 1 will report directly to the Laboratory Lead/Manager and after training will perform routine testing in compliance with laboratory test methods and procedures to support the manufacturing and timely delivery of product to customers (80 to 100%). As a trainee, the Scientist 1 must have the ability to assimilate and apply information rapidly. The Scientist I will receive general instructions about required tasks and results expected. Work will be well defined and is reviewed for accuracy upon completion. The Scientist 1 is expected to apply standard practices and techniques in specific situations and to recognize discrepancies in results and follow operations through a series of detailed steps and processes. Additionally, the Scientist Level 1 has accountability and ownership to maintain laboratory instruments in their qualified state.
Responsibilities:
  • Performing with competence, upon training, routine testing following laboratory test methods and procedures.
  • Developing a competence, upon training, in the use of laboratory instruments and equipment.
  • Performing daily calibrations/verifications and routine maintenance of laboratory instrumentation and equipment according to current SOPs.
  • Working in compliance with current GMPs with regard to documenting, testing and maintaining accurate laboratory notebooks and data sheets.
  • Raw material, In-process and finished goods testing when thorough training has been completed. Initiation and participation in laboratory investigations of non-conforming laboratory test results.
  • Collecting and preparing laboratory records for evaluation following good documentation practices.
  • Ensuring personal compliance with all Federal, State, local and company regulations, policies and procedures for Health, Safety and Environmental compliance.

Qualifications:
Required
  • Bachelor's Degree in a scientific discipline. such as Microbiology, Biology, or a closely related field
  • 0-2 years in laboratory or related environment
  • Strong understanding of compliance with applicable laboratory and safety procedure
  • Must be self-driven, have strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and capable of working independently or in a team.
  • Must possess effective oral and written communication skills as well as demonstrate the ability to effectively function in a cross-functional team environment

Preferred
  • Knowledge of sterilization, disinfection and cleaning technologies for reprocessing of medical devices is strongly preferred
  • Professional experience in a GxP-regulated industry and understanding of QSR, FDA, and ISO guidelines
  • Working experience with sterilants and disinfectants
  • Working knowledge of designs and features of medical devices

Fortive Corporation Overview
Fortive's essential technology makes the world safer and more productive. We accelerate transformation in high-impact fields like workplace safety, build environments, and healthcare.
We are a global industrial technology innovator with a startup spirit. Our forward-looking companies lead the way in healthcare sterilization, industrial safety, predictive maintenance, and other mission-critical solutions. We're a force for progress, working alongside our customers and partners to solve challenges on a global scale, from workplace safety in the most demanding conditions to advanced technologies that help providers focus on exceptional patient care.
We are a diverse team 10,000 strong, united by a dynamic, inclusive culture and energized by limitless learning and growth. We use the proven Fortive Business System (FBS) to accelerate our positive impact.
At Fortive, we believe in you. We believe in your potential-your ability to learn, grow, and make a difference.
At Fortive, we believe in us. We believe in the power of people working together to solve problems no one could solve alone.
At Fortive, we believe in growth. We're honest about what's working and what isn't, and we never stop improving and innovating.
Fortive: For you, for us, for growth.
About Advanced Sterilization Products
ASP is a leading global provider of innovative sterilization and disinfection solutions, and a pioneer of low-temperature hydrogen peroxide sterilization technology.ASP's mission is to protect patients during their most critical moments. We support healthcare facilities in the fight to protect patients against hospital acquired infections, which are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. ASP's products, which are sold globally, include the STERRAD system for sterilizing instruments and the EVOTECH and ENDOCLENS systems for endoscope reprocessing and cleaning.
We Are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Fortive Corporation and all Fortive Companies are proud to be equal opportunity employers. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or other characteristics protected by law. Fortive and all Fortive Companies are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment application process, please contact us at applyassistance@fortive.com.
Bonus or Equity
This position is also eligible for bonus as part of the total compensation package.
Pay Range
The salary range for this position (in local currency) is 58,995 - 98,555

What Fortive employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Fortive logo

About Fortive

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Fortive is a diversified technology company that operates across multiple industries, delivering innovative solutions and products that empower businesses to enhance their productivity and operational efficiency. With a strong portfolio of industry-leading brands, Fortive focuses on creating intelligent, connected devices and software that enable precise measurement, control, and optimization. Fortive's expertise spans various sectors, including industrial automation, transportation, healthcare, and retail. Through advanced technologies and solutions, Fortive help customers automate processes, improve quality and safety, and drive overall performance. Whether it's precision measurement instruments, sensing technologies, or software platforms, Fortive provides reliable and scalable solutions that meet the evolving needs of their customers.

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Everett, WA, US

Year founded

2016

Social media