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Sterile Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valleywise Health System

Central Sterile Tech

Peoria, AZ · On-site

$20.52 - $30.27/hr

As a Valleywise Health Central Sterile Tech, you will be vital to the patient care process. Central Sterile is the heartbeat of the hospital. This role focuses heavily on the ins and outs of ...

Mountain Health Network

OR Sterile Tech

Huntington, WV · On-site

Sterile Tech to work with our OR Sterile Department. The primary purpose of an ORSterile Tech is: * Within the framework of the hospital and nursing service policies and procedures, the primary ...

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How much do sterile tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterile tech in the United States is $21.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do sterile techs make a year?

Sterile processing technicians typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They work in hospital or surgical environments, handling sterilization of medical instruments and maintaining sterile procedures.

Where do sterile processing techs make the most money?

Sterile processing technicians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas and states with large healthcare facilities. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the type of healthcare facility, with hospitals often offering higher pay than outpatient clinics. Overall, geographic location and facility size are key factors influencing earnings for sterile processing techs.

What is the difference between Sterile Tech vs Surgical Tech?

AspectSterile TechSurgical Tech
CertificationsTypically requires sterile processing or central sterile certificationCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) often preferred
Work EnvironmentFocuses on sterilizing and preparing surgical instruments in sterile processing departmentsAssists in surgical procedures in operating rooms
Job ResponsibilitiesSterilizing instruments, maintaining sterile environment, inventory managementPreparing operating rooms, passing instruments, assisting surgeons

While both roles support surgical teams, Sterile Techs primarily handle sterilization and instrument prep, whereas Surgical Techs assist directly during surgeries. Both require knowledge of sterile procedures and certifications, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by Sterile Techs and how can they be addressed?

Sterile Techs often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to sterilization protocols in fast-paced environments and managing high volumes of surgical instruments. To address these challenges, strong attention to detail, effective time management, and clear communication with surgical teams are crucial. Ongoing training and collaboration with supervisors can help Sterile Techs stay updated on best practices and minimize errors, ensuring patient safety and efficient workflow.

Can you make 6 figures as a sterile processing technician?

Sterile processing technicians typically earn salaries below six figures, with most salaries ranging from $35,000 to $55,000 annually. Earning six figures usually requires additional experience, certifications, or advancement into supervisory or specialized roles within healthcare facilities.

Is it worth becoming a sterile processing tech?

Sterile processing technicians play a vital role in healthcare by sterilizing and preparing medical instruments for use. The job offers steady employment, opportunities for certification, and typically requires attention to detail and knowledge of sterilization equipment. It can be a good entry point into healthcare with potential for career advancement.

What are Sterile Techs?

Sterile Techs, also known as Sterile Processing Technicians or Central Sterile Processing Technicians, are healthcare professionals responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing medical instruments and equipment for use in surgeries and other medical procedures. They ensure all surgical tools are free of contaminants and properly organized. Their work is essential for infection control and patient safety in hospitals and clinics. Sterile Techs typically work in hospital sterile processing departments, outpatient centers, or surgical centers.

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

To thrive as a Sterile Tech, you need a solid understanding of sterilization procedures, infection control, and handling of surgical instruments, typically supported by a high school diploma and a Central Sterile Processing Technician certification (CRCST) or equivalent. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilization tracking software, and inventory management systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are essential soft skills for ensuring accuracy and collaboration with surgical teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining patient safety and supporting efficient surgical operations.
More about Sterile Tech jobs
What cities are hiring for Sterile Tech jobs? Cities with the most Sterile Tech job openings:
What states have the most Sterile Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Sterile Tech jobs include:
Sterile Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sterile Tech job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,391 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Central Sterile Tech

Central Sterile Tech

Piedmont Healthcare Inc.

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Piedmont Healthcare rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 454 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

404th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
Experience the advantages of real career change
Join Piedmont to move your career in the right direction. Stay for the diverse teams you'll love, a shared purpose, and schedule flexibility that frees you to live for what matters both in and outside of work. You'll feel valued, motivated to be your best, and recognized for your contributions to exceptional patient outcomes. Piedmont leaders are in your corner, invested in your success. Our wellness programs and comprehensive total benefits and rewards meet your needs today and help you plan for the future.
Responsibilities
Maintains recommended standards for set assembly, decontamination, inspection, containerizing and sterilizing surgical instruments in an accurate and timely manner. Performs sterilization, assembly and storage of medical supplies and equipment. Collaborates with the Perioperative Nursing staff to provide sterile instrument sets, equipment and case carts in an accurate and timely manner. Assists in maintaining consistent and continuous work flow, providing superior customer service.
Qualifications
Education
  • H.S. Diploma or General Education Degree (GED) Required and
  • Graduate of a Central Sterile Tech Required or
  • In Lieu of CST Certificate, 3 years of Central Sterile experience Required
Work Experience
  • 3 years of Central Sterile experience Required or
  • No experience required if incumbent has a Central Sterile Tech certification Required
Licenses and Certifications
  • None Required
  • CCST - Certified Central Service Technician Preferred or
  • CST - Certified Surgical Technologist Preferred

Business Unit : Company Name
Piedmont Atlanta Hospital

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