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Sterile Processing Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Sterile Processing information

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$12

$24

$39

How much do sterile processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile processing in Tennessee is $24.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sterile processing technician?

Sterile processing technicians, also known as central service technicians, are healthcare professionals responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, sterilizing, and preparing medical instruments and equipment for use in surgeries and other medical procedures. They ensure that all tools are free from harmful microorganisms, helping to prevent infections and maintain patient safety. These technicians work in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities, following strict protocols and using specialized equipment to handle and process surgical instruments.

What are some common challenges faced by sterile processing technicians, and how can they be managed effectively?

Sterile Processing Technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict attention to detail while handling a large volume of instruments, staying up-to-date with evolving sterilization protocols, and managing time effectively during busy surgical schedules. Working under pressure and ensuring compliance with infection control standards require diligence and strong organizational skills. Building good communication with surgical staff and participating in ongoing training can help technicians stay current and manage these challenges effectively.

Is becoming a sterile processing technician worth it?

Sterile processing technicians play a vital role in healthcare by sterilizing and preparing medical instruments, requiring attention to detail and knowledge of sterilization techniques. The job typically offers stable employment, opportunities for certification, and a consistent schedule, making it a viable career choice for those interested in healthcare support roles.

How many years does it take to become a sterile processing technician?

Becoming a sterile processing technician typically requires completing a post-secondary certificate or diploma program, which can take from several months up to a year. Some employers may also require on-the-job training or certification, such as the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), which can be obtained within a few months after training.

What is the difference between Sterile Processing vs Central Supply Technician?

AspectSterile ProcessingCentral Supply Technician
CertificationsCPR, Sterile Processing Certification (CBSPD or ISSA)CPR, Central Supply Certification (if available)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, sterile processing departmentsHospitals, clinics, supply rooms
Job ResponsibilitiesCleaning, sterilizing, and assembling surgical instrumentsReceiving, storing, and distributing medical supplies
Industry UsagePrimarily in healthcare and surgical settingsIn healthcare facilities for supply management

Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, with Sterile Processing focusing on sterilizing surgical tools, while Central Supply Technicians manage medical supplies. Understanding their differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

To thrive as a Sterile Processing Technician, you need knowledge of sterilization procedures, infection control, and medical instrument handling, typically supported by a high school diploma and certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with autoclaves, washer-disinfectors, and tracking systems like instrument management software is essential. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication enable technicians to prevent errors and support surgical teams. These skills and qualities are critical to ensuring patient safety and maintaining high standards of healthcare facility operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Sterile Processing jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Sterile Processing jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Sterile Processing job openings:
Infographic showing various Sterile Processing job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,903 per year, or $25 per hour.

Certified Sterile Processing Tech

Ascension

Murfreesboro, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 11 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

417th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Your future role at a glance

Location: Murfreesboro, TN

Facility: Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford

Department: Sterile Processing

Schedule: Weekend Option | Saturday & Sunday, 6:30 p.m.-7:00 a.m.; Friday & Monday, 10:30 p.m.-7:00 a.m.

How you'll make an impact in this role
  • Ensure surgical safety and patient protection by operating sterilization equipment and meticulously inspecting instruments to guarantee total cleanliness and mechanical functionality.
  • Execute high-standard decontamination of soiled clinical tools and containers by following specific instructions for use (IFUs) and established safety protocols.
  • Maintain clinical accuracy by auditing and correcting instrument sets against current standards and tracking systems to ensure surgical teams have exactly what they need.
  • Optimize surgical flow by managing inventory levels and preparing case carts to ensure that life-saving equipment is always available and ready for use.
  • Drive departmental excellence by performing regular quality assurance audits of peer work to maintain a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
What minimum qualifications you'll need

Licensure / Certification / Registration:

One or more of the following required :

  • Central Service Tech specializing in Sterile Processing credentialed from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association obtained prior to hire date or job transfer date.
  • Central Service Tech specializing in Sterile Processing credentialed from the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) obtained prior to hire date or job transfer date.

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.
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

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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