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Surgical Instrument Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WVU Medicine

Sterile Processing Tech

Barnesville, OH · On-site

Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) OR Certified Surgical Instrument Specialist (CSIS) through Certified Board for Sterile Processing ...

Memorial Hermann

Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) or Surgical Instrument Specialist Certification (CSIS) preferred Experience / Knowledge / Skills: * Minimum of two (2) years of experience involving ...

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Surgical Instrument Specialist information

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$19

$31

$51

How much do surgical instrument specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 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.

Veterinary Surgical Instrument Sterilization Technician

South Weymouth, MA • On-site

VCA Animal Hospitals
Veterinary Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about VCA Animal Hospitalsexternal

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 hours ago

Key responsibilities

  • Safely clean, sterilize, and organize surgical instruments

  • Ensure instruments are properly maintained, stored, and ready for use

  • Uphold strict safety and hygiene protocols

VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Join Our Team: Experienced Veterinary Surgical Instrument Sterilization Specialist Needed!

Are you a seasoned veterinary professional who wants to take on a crucial behind-the-scenes role in patient care? If you're ready to leave the hands-on pet care behind and focus on ensuring top-notch safety and cleanliness in the surgical environment, we have the perfect position for you!

We are seeking anExperienced Sterilization Specialistto oversee the meticulous sterilization and organization of all surgical instruments. Your expertise will directly impact the health and well-being of our animal patients, supporting the veterinary team in delivering the best possible care.

Schedule: Full time, 40 hrs a week

Compensation:$18.00 - $21.00 per hour based on skill set, and experience

What You'll Do:

  • Safely clean, sterilize, and organize surgical instruments
  • Ensure instruments are properly maintained, stored, and ready for use
  • Uphold strict safety and hygiene protocols
  • Work closely with surgeons and veterinary staff to ensure the highest standards are met
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sterile environment for all surgical procedures

What We're Looking For:

  • A keen eye for detail and the ability to spot potential issues before they arise
  • Strong leadership skills, with the ability to guide and collaborate with the surgical team
  • Passion for maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety
  • Organized, efficient, and calm under pressure
  • Less focus on direct pet care, with a desire to contribute to the team in a vital, behind-the-scenes capacity

Why Join Us?

  • Shift your focus from direct pet care to enhancing the safety and efficiency of surgical procedures
  • Work in a supportive, professional, and dedicated team
  • Competitive pay and benefits package
  • Opportunities for career growth and development
  • Make a significant difference in the care of animals, without the hands-on physical demands

Ready to take your experience to the next level in a new, vital role? Apply now to join our dedicated team and make an impact in the world of veterinary care-without the hands-on pet responsibilities!

VCA South Shore (Weymouth) provides:

  • Health and dental insurance
  • Matching 401(k)
  • Paid holidays and vacation
  • Employee pet discounts
  • Discounts to veterinary educational programs, including Penn Foster
  • VetGirl Subscription Discount
  • Generous shift differentials for qualifying shifts

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

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.

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