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Sterile Processing Training Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Sterilization Technician

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Training & Professional Development * Participate in ongoing training and maintain current ... Experience: * Previous experience in a dental, oral surgery, medical, or sterile processing ...

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Sterile Processing Training information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$28

$45

How much do sterile processing training jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing training in Reston, VA is $28.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.77 and $34.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sterile processing training?

Sterile processing training is a specialized educational program designed to teach individuals how to properly clean, disinfect, sterilize, and prepare medical instruments and equipment used in healthcare settings. The training covers topics such as infection control, instrument identification, decontamination procedures, and the safe handling of surgical tools. Completing sterile processing training is essential for those seeking to work as sterile processing technicians in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities to help prevent infections and ensure patient safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in sterile processing training, and why are they important?

Success in Sterile Processing Training requires knowledge of infection control, sterilization protocols, and proper handling of surgical instruments, often supported by a high school diploma and completion of a sterile processing certification program. Familiarity with autoclaves, instrument tracking systems, and chemical disinfectants is typically necessary. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work well under pressure are vital soft skills in this field. These competencies are essential to ensure the safety of patients and staff by maintaining strict sterilization standards in healthcare settings.

What are some common challenges faced during sterile processing training, and how can trainees overcome them?

Sterile processing training often involves mastering complex protocols for decontamination, assembly, and sterilization of medical instruments. Trainees may find it challenging to remember detailed procedures, maintain strict attention to detail, and adapt to the fast-paced environment. Overcoming these challenges typically involves hands-on practice, diligent use of checklists, and seeking feedback from experienced technicians. Building strong communication skills and asking questions when unsure can also help trainees become confident and effective in this critical role.

What is the difference between Sterile Processing Training vs Central Service Technician?

AspectSterile Processing TrainingCentral Service Technician
CertificationsOften includes certification prep (CBSPD, IAHCSMM)Typically requires certification, such as CBSPD or IAHCSMM
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, sterile processing departmentsHospitals, clinics, surgical centers, sterile processing units
Job FocusTraining for sterilization, instrument reprocessing, and equipment handlingPerforming sterilization, inventory management, and instrument tracking

Both roles involve sterilization and instrument processing in healthcare settings. Sterile Processing Training provides foundational education and certification prep, while Central Service Technicians apply those skills daily in hospitals and clinics. Understanding the differences helps in choosing the right career path or training program.

How fast can you become a sterile processing training?

Sterile processing training programs typically last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the course depth and certification level. Many programs offer accelerated options for those with prior healthcare experience, and completing certification exams like the CBSPD or IAHCSMM can be achieved shortly after training. The duration varies based on the training provider and whether the individual is pursuing entry-level or advanced skills.

Is it hard to get hired as a sterile processing technician?

Getting hired as a sterile processing technician can be competitive, but having proper training, certification, and familiarity with sterilization equipment improves job prospects. Employers often seek candidates with attention to detail, good organizational skills, and knowledge of infection control protocols. Entry-level positions may be available with relevant training or certification programs.

Is it worth becoming a sterile processing training?

Sterile processing training prepares individuals for roles in sterilizing and managing medical instruments, which are essential in healthcare settings. Completing this training can lead to stable employment, opportunities for certification, and skill development in equipment handling and infection control. The field often offers steady hours and the chance to work in hospitals or clinics.

What are popular job titles related to Sterile Processing Training jobs in Reston, VA?

For Sterile Processing Training jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Sterile Processing Training jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Sterile Processing Training job openings:

Infographic showing various Sterile Processing Training job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,494 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Sterile Processing Technician - Day Shift

Decypher

Bethesda, MD โ€ข On-site

$35.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Join Decypher and make a direct impact on the health and readiness of Americas service members, veterans, and their families. Since 2008 Decypher has offered healthcare industry professionals careers where their expertise is valued, and their work makes a meaningful impact. Decypher partners with the Defense Health Agency to deliver professional services, technology, and management solutions. Our mission is to provide and support quality care for our veterans, servicemembers and their families, across the United States.

Job Summary: Sterile Processing Technician receives, inspects, decontaminates, and sterilizes reusable medical devices and surgical instruments using appropriate cleaning methods and sterilization processes, ensuring proper assembly, labeling, packaging, and storage in compliance with instructions for use. Monitors sterilization effectiveness, verifies instrument functionality, prepares specialty trays and case carts, and uses sound judgment to fulfill routine, special, and emergency supply requests across clinical areas.

Required Qualifications:

  • Education: Completion of a central sterile supply training course.
  • Certifications:
    • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
    • Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST)
  • Experience: At least two continuous years' experience within the last four years as Sterile Processing Technician. Shall be able to read, write, speak and understand English well enough to effectively communicate with all staff members.

U.S. Citizenship is required

Key Responsibilities:

  • Perform basic principles of microbiology as they apply to medical supply operations, related to the resistance of microorganisms to external destructive agents such as heat, chemicals, and ionizing radiation.
  • Provide knowledge of aseptic principles and techniques including characteristics of various detergents, cleaning techniques, sterilizing mediums, sterilizer operation and tests that determine effectiveness of sterilization. A thorough knowledge of packaging, storage and shelf-life characteristics.
  • Execute knowledge of the use, operation, assembly and disassembly of surgical instruments, medical devices, and specific cleaning, sterilizing and storage requirements of each.
  • Provide a basic understanding of medical and surgical terminology.
  • Apply judgement as required when selecting cleaning methods and sterilization mediums, placement of instruments in trays, and substitution of items for missing supplies. Judgement is required to resolve minor problems with equipment. Prudent and experienced judgement is required in emergency situations whether to use less desirable or more costly processing to make available urgently needed supplies.
  • Employee will receive, disassemble, and inspect for damage to reusable medical devices and surgical instrumentation.
  • Employee will determine the correct method of decontamination and sterilization; removal of blood, tissue fragments, body fluids, and other gross contaminants by wiping, soaking, rinsing, scrubbing and using ultrasonic and washer disinfecting equipment.
  • Employees will become familiar with the operation of cleaning and sterilizing equipment.
  • Examine all items after decontamination/ pre-sterilization procedure to ensure that gross contaminants have been removed and that instruments function properly.
  • Employees will properly label and identify medical devices and surgical instruments for the Main Operating Room (MOR), Labor and Delivery (L&D), ward, and clinics.
  • Employees will assemble and prepare the full range of specialty trays and instrument sets for the MOR, clinics, wards, and L&D for proper sterilization utilizing inventory sheets.
  • Employee will select the correct wrapping or packaging material for medical devices and surgical instruments.
  • Employee will select the correct sterilization process according to the IFU (Instructions For Use) for the medical devices, either Hydrogen Peroxide (STERRAD and V-Pro), Ethylene Oxide (EO) or Steam sterilization processes.
  • Correctly label and seal wrapped items with appropriately with proper sterilization tape.
  • Employee will monitor the operation of the sterilizers using graphs, computer panels, Bowie Dick, and spore challenge tests (biological).
  • Employee will ensure the technique of gravity displacement, and cycles for specialty items.
  • Employees will receive sterilized trays/loaners, instrument sets, and medical equipment from the sterilizer, checks for integrity of sterilization, i.e. (color changes on the indicator tapes, external indicators, dampness of packages); stocks and properly stores sterile items in the appropriate clinic areas or the sterile storage room.
  • Employee will assemble and properly completes case cart requisition forms from the Main Operating Room. Fills special or emergency requests.

Work Environment & Schedule: 6:45am to 7:15pm (8 or 10 hour shifts).

Compensation & Benefits: Up to $35.50 per hour + H&W

Decypher is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce (M/F/D/V)