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Sterilization Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sterilization Operator

Covington, GA

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Assists Team Leader in operating the sterilization process to ensure quality processing. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES : * Performs backup Team Leader responsibilities, as required.

Sterilization Operator

Covington, GA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Assists Team Leader in operating the sterilization process to ensure quality processing. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES : * Performs backup Team Leader responsibilities, as required.

Sterilization Tech

Statesville, NC

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Gives patients post operative care instructions. * Schedules patients' next visit appointment. * Maintains equipment and instruments by proper care, cleaning, and sterilization. * Adheres to office ...

Sterilization Tech

Statesville, NC

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Gives patients post operative care instructions. * Schedules patients' next visit appointment. * Maintains equipment and instruments by proper care, cleaning, and sterilization. * Adheres to office ...

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Sterilization Operator information

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$18

$25

How much do sterilization operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for sterilization operator in the United States is $18.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do sterile techs get paid the most?

Sterilization technicians tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of the healthcare facility, with hospitals and specialized clinics often offering higher pay than outpatient centers.

Do you have to be certified to be a sterilization tech?

Sterilization operators typically do not require formal certification, but many employers prefer candidates with training or certification in sterilization procedures and infection control. On-the-job training is common, and some facilities may require specific certifications depending on industry standards or regulations.

What is the difference between Sterilization Operator vs Medical Equipment Technician?

AspectSterilization OperatorMedical Equipment Technician
CredentialsCertification in sterilization techniques, OSHA trainingCertification in medical equipment repair, biomedical technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, cleanroom settingsHospitals, clinics, medical device companies
Industry UsageHealthcare, sterilization servicesMedical device maintenance and repair

While both roles work within healthcare environments, Sterilization Operators focus on sterilizing medical instruments, ensuring infection control, whereas Medical Equipment Technicians repair and maintain medical devices. They share some certifications but differ in daily tasks and industry focus.

How much does sterile processing pay?

Sterilization operators typically earn an average hourly wage of $15 to $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Pay can vary based on experience, certifications, and the healthcare facility's location and size.

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

Getting hired as a sterile processing technician typically requires relevant training or certification, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. Job availability can vary based on healthcare facility needs and regional demand, but entry-level positions are often accessible to those with proper training and a willingness to learn.

What are some common challenges Sterilization Operators face when ensuring equipment meets safety standards?

Sterilization Operators often encounter challenges such as managing strict adherence to safety protocols, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and maintaining accurate documentation for compliance audits. The role frequently requires close attention to detail to prevent contamination and ensure that all equipment is processed correctly. Collaboration with quality assurance and maintenance teams is common, as operators must quickly address any issues that could impact the sterilization process or product safety.

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

To thrive as a Sterilization Operator, you need a solid understanding of sterilization procedures, safety standards, and quality control, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with autoclaves, sterilization monitoring systems, and compliance documentation is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong organizational skills help ensure thorough and consistent performance. These competencies are crucial for maintaining product safety, preventing contamination, and supporting regulatory compliance in healthcare or manufacturing environments.

What are sterilization operators?

Sterilization operators are professionals responsible for operating equipment and following procedures that sterilize medical instruments, devices, or products. They ensure that all items are free from bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms by using methods such as steam, gas, or chemical sterilization. Their work is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing infections in healthcare and manufacturing environments. Sterilization operators also monitor equipment performance, document processes, and adhere to strict safety and quality standards.
More about Sterilization Operator jobs
What states have the most Sterilization Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Sterilization Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Sterilization Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sterilization Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Sterilization Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,042 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


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7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Company Description

Be part of something bigger! 

BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care. We have over 65,000 employees and a presence in virtually every country around the world to address some of the most challenging global health issues. 

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BD helps customers enhance outcomes, lower costs, increase efficiencies, improve safety and expand access to health care. We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our associates grow professionally before recruiting new talent to our open positions.

Job Description

Job Description:

Assists Team Leader in operating the sterilization process to ensure quality processing.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Performs backup Team Leader responsibilities, as required.

  • Operates the sterilization process and ancillary equipment.

  • Moves material through all steps of the sterilization process.

  • Operates material handling equipment.

  • Documents all steps in the sterilization process in accordance with established procedures including the JD Edwards and Mfg Pro computerized inventory management system.

  • Able to perform all functions as defined in the Warehouse Spore Placer Job Description and perform post sterile inspection.

  • Initiates maintenance work orders, when applicable. 

  • Maintains plant facilities and equipment through "user level" preventative maintenance as defined by procedure(s).

  • Participates in safety team, audit activities and operational process improvements.

  • Crucial resource for training of other sterilization personnel (i.e. Sterilization Operators).

  • Perform chemical receipt into Sterilization.  

  • Supervise chemical inventory of nitrogen and ethylene oxide.

  • Connection / disconnection of hazardous chemicals to process equipment (i.e. ethylene oxide).

  • Assists with various monthly reports for purpose of supervising departmental performance.

  • Will optimally complete other functions and responsibilities that may be assigned

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Able to operate material handling equipment.

  • Able to prioritize tasks and workflow.  Planning will take into account assets (time, equipment, and product) available.

  • Knowledge of personal computers.

  • Strong leadership and motivational skills required.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

  • Minimum high school diploma or GED equivalent, with preferably some technical or college education.

  • Two to 4 years of experience in the operation of equipment and inventory management is desirable.

REASONING ABILITY:

  • Must be a self-starter. 

  • Position requires good logic, reasoning ability, ability to define problems and find logical solutions. Able to apply policies and procedures to work situations and use judgment in selecting appropriate actions. 

  • Significant deviations from established policies and procedures will be referred to management and or Team Leader.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • The employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle or feel. 

  • Occasionally required to stand and reach with hands and arms and lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. 

  • Employee is required to meet with other personnel in other areas of building. 

  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

  • Employee must not have any facial hair that interferes with a protective MSA mask. 

  • Must be free of any health condition that would prohibit assignments to an ethylene oxide related area.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

 Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • During the performance of this job, the employee may be in hot and humid locations, near moving mechanical parts, high places, risk of electrical shock, work with explosive gas, toxic and caustic chemicals, or experience loud noise (maintenance shop, forklift equipment, and construction). 

  • Must be able to work "off" hours with minimal supervision, as required.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.


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About BD

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BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care. We have over 65,000 employees and a presence in virtually every country around the world to address some of the most challenging global health issues.

Industry

Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Franklin Lakes, NJ, US

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