ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Surgical Instrument Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

1200 MH-Memphis Hospitals

WI · On-site

Preferred - Certified Surgical Instrument Specialist - The Certification Board for Sterile ... Processing and Distribution Knowledge, Skills and Abilities * Sound working knowledge of concepts ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHealthcare JobsHospital JobsSterile Processing Technician JobsSurgical Instrument Specialist Jobs

Surgical Instrument Specialist information

See salary details

$19

$31

$51

How much do surgical instrument specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical instrument specialist in the United States is $31.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $36.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical instrument specialist?

Surgical Instrument Specialists are professionals responsible for the preparation, maintenance, and sterilization of surgical instruments used in medical procedures. They ensure that all instruments are clean, functional, and properly organized for surgeries. Their work is critical for patient safety and the smooth operation of surgical teams, as they may also inspect instruments for damage, assemble instrument trays, and keep detailed records of sterilization processes. Surgical Instrument Specialists often work in hospitals, surgical centers, or clinics, and must follow strict protocols to prevent infection and maintain high standards of care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical instrument specialist?

To thrive as a Surgical Instrument Specialist, you need in-depth knowledge of surgical instruments, sterilization procedures, and inventory management, usually supported by a high school diploma or certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with sterilization equipment, tracking software, and surgical trays is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure that surgical teams have properly prepared instruments, directly impacting patient safety and the efficiency of surgical procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by surgical instrument specialists in maintaining equipment quality and safety standards?

Surgical Instrument Specialists often face challenges such as managing a high volume of instruments, keeping up with strict sterilization protocols, and ensuring accurate instrument tracking. They must stay vigilant to quickly identify worn or damaged tools, as even minor issues can impact patient safety. Collaboration with surgical teams and sterile processing departments is crucial for timely instrument turnaround and preventing delays in procedures. Staying updated on new technology and best practices also plays a key role in maintaining high standards.

What is the difference between Surgical Instrument Specialist vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectSurgical Instrument SpecialistSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertifications like CSS or CST often preferredCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) required
Work EnvironmentSpecializes in instrument management, sterilization, and repairAssists in surgical procedures, prepares operating rooms
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, medical device companiesHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

While both roles support surgical teams, a Surgical Instrument Specialist focuses on instrument care, sterilization, and repair, whereas a Surgical Technologist assists directly during surgeries. Both require relevant certifications and work in healthcare settings, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

What states have the most Surgical Instrument Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Surgical Instrument Specialist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Surgical Instrument Specialist jobs?

For Surgical Instrument Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Surgical Instrument Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical Instrument Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,693 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Instrument Technician I

El Paso, TX • On-site

University Medical Center of El Paso
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about University Medical Center of El Pasoexternal

Full-time

Re-posted just now

University Medical Center Of El Paso rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Following ANSI/AMMI guidelines, ensures surgical instruments are stile and ready for physician prior to operations and medical procedures. Maintains and prepares surgical instrument trays for the Operating Room and general Nursing Units, according to specifications. Maintains and updates surgical count sheets. Follows proper sterilization and disinfection procedures, and aseptic techniques with minimal supervision.
Required Skills:
1. Knowledge of materials, assembly processes, surgical trey assembly, quality control methods, and sterilization techniques.
2. Proficient in meeting quality standards for sterilization services.
3. Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, sterilization procedures.
4. Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
5. Ability to determining causes of operating errors and apply effective decision making to correct errors.
6. Ability to conduct tests and inspections of products, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
7. Knowledge of chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes, including uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
8. Ability to perform mathematical calculations.
9. Basic computer literacy and keyboarding skills.
10. Data entry abilities with ten key skills.
11. Ability to read and comprehend English at a level necessary to follow written and oral instructions and safety precautions.
12. Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
Required Experience:
A. Work Experience
One year of experience in surgical instrument sterilization required.
B. Certification/License/Registration
Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) or Certified Surgical Instrument Specialist (CSIS) preferred.
C. Education and Training
High school graduate or equivalent.

What University Medical Center Of El Paso employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply