1

Sterilization Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sterilization Services Tech.

Shelton, WA · On-site

$22.71 - $31.38/hr

Sterilization Service Technician: This 1.0FTE/Full-Time position is scheduled to work 8HR variable ... Brings concerns to lead, charge RN or Director as appropriate for resolution. * Operate and ...

Sterilization Services Tech.

Shelton, WA · On-site

$22.71 - $31.38/hr

Sterilization Service Technician: This 1.0FTE/Full-Time position is scheduled to work 8HR variable ... Brings concerns to lead, charge RN or Director as appropriate for resolution. * Operate and ...

Showing results 41-60

Sterilization Operator information

See salary details

$11

$18

$25

How much do sterilization operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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.

What is a sterilization operator?

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.

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 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 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.

More about Sterilization Operator jobs

Who are the top companies hiring for Sterilization Operator jobs?

The top employers for Sterilization Operator jobs are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% 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.

Central Sterilization Technician

VCA Animal Hospitals

Ithaca, NY • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 659 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

The Central Sterilization Technician plays a critical role in maintaining a safe, sterile, and efficient surgical environment. This position is responsible for the cleaning, sterilization, maintenance, and organization of surgical instruments and suites, as well as supporting inventory management within the surgical department. Salary range $19-$21 based on experience.
  • Maintain a rigorous and consistent cleaning schedule for the surgical suite
  • Decontaminate and thoroughly clean operating rooms and equipment after procedures
  • Clean surgical instruments using proper sterilization techniques
  • Prepare and assemble surgical packs for sterilization
  • Operate and monitor sterilization equipment, including gas sterilizers and autoclaves
  • Perform weekly maintenance and cleaning of the autoclave and ultrasonic scaler
  • Ensure all surgical equipment is properly functioning and report any issues promptly
  • Conduct regular inventory audits and order supplies as needed for the surgical department
  • Maintain appropriate stock levels of surgical supplies in pack areas and surgical suites
  • OtherJob Responsibilities
  • Patient restraint for bandage changes, catheter placement, etc.

  • Crosstrain inassistingwith patient pre-surgical preparations and other dutiespertaining tosurgicalserviceoperationsuch as pre-op appointments and post- op discharges

If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.

Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

What VCA Animal Hospitals employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom