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Surgical Instrument Technician Sterile Processing Jobs

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How much do surgical instrument technician sterile processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical instrument technician sterile processing 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 does a surgical instrument technician sterile processing do?

A Surgical Instrument Technician in Sterile Processing is responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing surgical instruments and medical equipment in hospitals and surgical centers. They ensure that all tools are free of contaminants and properly prepared for surgical procedures, playing a vital role in infection control. Their work helps maintain patient safety and supports the efficiency of surgical teams by making sure necessary instruments are available and sterile.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical instrument technician sterile processing?

To thrive as a Surgical Instrument Technician Sterile Processing, you need a solid understanding of sterilization techniques, infection control, and instrument handling, often supported by a high school diploma and certification such as CRCST. Familiarity with autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, inventory tracking systems, and other sterilization equipment is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and collaboration within surgical teams. These skills are vital to maintaining patient safety, preventing infections, and supporting efficient surgical workflows.

What are some common challenges surgical instrument technicians sterile processing face during their shifts?

Surgical Instrument Technicians in Sterile Processing often encounter challenges such as managing tight turnaround times for instrument trays, maintaining stringent cleanliness standards, and effectively identifying and handling delicate or complex instruments. The role requires strong attention to detail, as even minor errors can impact patient safety and surgical outcomes. Technicians also regularly communicate with operating room staff to ensure all necessary instruments are available and properly sterilized, which demands excellent teamwork and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Surgical Instrument Technician Sterile Processing vs Surgical Instrument Technician Sterile Processing?

AspectSurgical Instrument Technician Sterile Processing

Both roles involve cleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining surgical instruments in healthcare settings. They typically require similar certifications, such as CBSPD or IAHCSMM, and work in sterile processing departments within hospitals or clinics. The primary difference is often regional terminology or employer preference, but the core responsibilities and work environment are very similar.

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Instrument Technician - Sterile Processing (SPD)

Hoag Health System

Irvine, CA

Full-time, Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title

Instrument Technician

Job Description

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Responsible for care, cleaning, handling and reprocessing of instruments and equipment. Knowledge of instrumentation blood and body fluid precautions, disinfection techniques, and methods of sterilization. Takes inventory, orders, and stocks supplies within the department. Is responsible for indirect nursing care of patients as related to instrumentation for neonate, child, and adolescent, adult, and geriatric.

Responsible for providing coordination and assembly of surgery case carts. The processes include instrument and inventory management, restocking, proactive identification of supply/instrumentation needs, gathering of supplies needed for a specific case, and assist with O.R. sterilization processes. Knowledge of supplies, instrumentation, disinfection techniques, and methods of sterilization.

Based on experience, Hoag does have a career ladder for Instrument Technicians ranging from level 1 – 5.

Exemption Status Non-exempt

Benefits Eligible Yes

Schedule Full-time, 8 hour shifts

Hours / Pay period (2 weeks) Available hours: 80 (Full-time)

Schedule Details 2nd shift: 2:30pm – 11:00pm (applicable for shift differential)

3rd shift: 11:00pm – 7:30am (applicable for shift differential)

Shift Differential

Yes, 2nd shift

Yes, 3rd Shift

Responsibilities

Operates Decontamination equipment according to established Policy and Procedures and Manufacturer guidelines. Decontaminates and cleans instruments and equipment adhering to hospital policies for universal precautions.

Inspects instruments and equipment to insure proper functioning, and notifies supervisor of unserviceable items.

Assembles and wraps trays for sterilization following established procedures for completeness, labeling, and documentation.

Loads and operates sterilizers according to established policies and procedures, documents the contents and processing information according to departmental policy.

Performs quality assurance monitors and documentation for sterilization, including Bowie Dick, biological testing, chemical indicators, according to established policies and procedures.

Communicates in timely manner with end user departments when sterilization or supplies are delayed or when a delay is anticipated so that alternative measures can be implemented to support other department's requirements for sterile instruments or supplies.

Performs assigned cleaning duties as scheduled to insure a clean and orderly environment.

Accurately completes inventory lists for trays and surgeon preference cards, signs, and dates.

Responds to requests from OR rooms with urgency and by priority.

Anticipates OR nurses needs to prevent any problems from occurring.

Writes self-evaluation and is able to recognize areas for growth and improvement. Participates with SPD Manager to plan realistic goals.

Works at establishing a good rapport and good working relationship with departments and interdepartmental personnel.

Participates in quality improvement activities for departmental and section specific processes.

Exercises authority when appropriate, recognizing needs and directing activities to departmental advantage. Uses initiative to resolve problems with appropriate action and follow through, including documentation for Performance Improvement.

Consistent scanning in SQ.Track.

Consistent log-in/log-out of systems, including but not limited to SQ.Track.

Ensure that quality patient care is delivered to all patients on a 24-hour basis, and the unit is maintained in accordance with professional and regulatory standards and the philosophy and goals of Hoag.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Training, and Experience Required :

High school diploma or equivalent.

Knowledge of surgical terminology, instrumentation, and supplies.

Basic computer skills. Sterile processing experience.

Skills or Other Qualifications Required :

Demonstrates effective communication, interpersonal skills, organizational ability, knowledge of proper body mechanics, safety measures and infection prevention.

Ability to follow instructions and knowledge of section specific test information and instrumentation may be required.

License or Certifications Preferred :

HSPA CRCST certification (Certification for levels 4 and 5 required) or CBSPD certification.