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Surgical Instrument Sterilization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Surgical Instrument Sterilization information

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How much do surgical instrument sterilization jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical instrument sterilization in the United States is $23.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical instrument sterilization?

A Surgical Instrument Sterilization job involves cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing medical instruments to ensure they are safe for surgical procedures. Professionals in this role follow strict protocols to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and contaminants from surgical tools. They use specialized equipment such as autoclaves and chemical disinfectants to achieve proper sterilization. This job is essential in preventing infections and maintaining patient safety in hospitals and surgical centers. Attention to detail and adherence to sterilization standards are crucial for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in surgical instrument sterilization?

To thrive in Surgical Instrument Sterilization, you need strong attention to detail, knowledge of sterilization procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with specialized training or certification (such as CRCST) often preferred. Familiarity with autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, tracking systems, and strict adherence to infection control protocols is essential. Reliability, organization, effective communication, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this environment. These competencies are crucial for ensuring patient safety, supporting surgical teams, and maintaining compliance with healthcare standards.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in surgical instrument sterilization?

Daily responsibilities in Surgical Instrument Sterilization include decontaminating, inspecting, assembling, and properly packaging surgical instruments before sterilization. Team members operate autoclaves and other specialized equipment, maintain accurate records, and ensure strict adherence to infection control guidelines. They often work closely with surgical staff to understand instrument needs and respond to urgent requests. Attention to detail is vital, as any lapse can impact patient safety and surgical outcomes. The work is typically performed in a sterile processing department within hospitals or surgical centers, where teamwork, timely turnaround, and adherence to safety protocols are essential.

Are surgical instrument sterilization techs in demand?

Surgical instrument sterilization technicians are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for sterile medical environments in healthcare facilities. The role requires knowledge of sterilization procedures, use of specialized equipment, and adherence to safety standards, making it a stable career choice with opportunities for employment growth.

How to become a surgical instrument sterilization?

To become a surgical instrument sterilization technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete on-the-job training or a certification program in sterilization techniques. Knowledge of sterilization equipment, infection control procedures, and attention to detail are essential for ensuring patient safety and compliance with healthcare standards.
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What cities are hiring for Surgical Instrument Sterilization jobs?

Cities with the most Surgical Instrument Sterilization job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Surgical Instrument Sterilization jobs?

The most popular types of Surgical Instrument Sterilization jobs are:

What states have the most Surgical Instrument Sterilization jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Surgical Instrument Sterilization job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,665 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Veterinary Surgical Instrument Sterilization Technician

VCA Animal Hospitals

Weymouth, MA • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 660 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 52 rated veterinary


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 an Experienced Sterilization Specialist to 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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