What does a Sterile Processing Technician do?
A Sterile Processing Technician helps healthcare facilities maintain a high standard of care. By completing sterile processing technician job duties, they give physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, therapists and other members of the care team access to the tools, instruments, devices and personal protective equipment needed to deliver patient care and adhere to infection control and safety guidelines. A technician also inspects for signs of excessive wear and tear or damage on devices, equipment and tools to reduce the risk of medical errors and minimize delays during medical procedures.
Sterile Processing Technician skills and qualifications
To succeed in Sterile Processing Technician careers, candidates need certain skills and qualifications. Some desirable skills to look for on candidate resumes include:
- Extensive knowledge of the best practices for infection control, hazardous waste disposal and emergency preparedness
- Keen attentiveness to detail to monitor working conditions, inspect equipment and oversee the decontamination process
- Organizational skills to efficiently fulfill supply requests
- Familiarity with a wide range of surgical instruments, medical devices and equipment
- Dexterity to operate equipment used for decontamination and sterilization
- Ability to remain stationary and upright during a shift and to move items that weigh up to 25 pounds.
- Experience using databases to look up infection control procedures as needed
- Strong oral and written communication skills to interact with members of the care team and keep accurate records
Sterile Processing Technician experience requirements
The amount of experience needed to excel in Sterile Processing Technician careers varies. If your facility normally has several technicians working during every shift, candidates with little to no experience may be able to learn key skills on the job. However, individuals who have worked in the field for 2 years or more may be better suited for positions that involve working alone or supervising other technicians.
Sterile Processing Technician education and training requirements
Typically, employers require candidates for Sterile Processing Technician jobs to have at least a high school diploma or GED, along with post-secondary training in the field. Most Sterile Processing Technician education programs last for 4 to 8 months and award a certificate or diploma upon completion. For positions that involve working alone, training or supervising, you may wish to hire a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST). To gain this credential from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association, technicians must show proof of at least 400 hours of hands-on working experience in the field and pass the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management exam.
Sterile Processing Technician salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Sterile Processing Technician is $62,951 per year. Expected salaries vary based on geographic location, size and financial consideration of healthcare facilities, certification status, educational background and the number of years of experience completing Sterile Processing Technician job duties.
Sterile Processing Technician salary expectations
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Common salary:
1315.67 WEEKLY -
Typical salaries range from
600.00 -2300.00 WEEKLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
Job description samples for similar positions
If the details of the Sterile Processing Technician don’t fully reflect the details of your open position, check out these descriptions for related jobs:
Sterile Processing Technician job description FAQs
What is the difference between a Sterile Processing Technician and a Surgical Technician?
A Surgical Technician works in the operating room setting up equipment and performing other tasks during medical procedures. A Sterile Processing Technician doesn’t provide direct patient care. Instead, they support the care team by cleaning, disinfecting and distributing equipment and supplies.
Do Sterile Processing Technicians have different responsibilities in different settings?
The size of a healthcare facility affects the responsibilities of a technician. In small ambulatory care centers, nursing homes and physicians’ offices, technicians may have additional inventory control duties, such as ordering supplies and conducting regular inventories. In large hospitals and long-term care facilities, these duties are usually performed by other employees.
What qualities make a good Sterile Processing Technician?
The ability to thrive in a high-paced, stressful working environment is important for successfully completing Sterile Processing Technician job duties. Individuals who can make quick decisions and enjoy highly detailed work may excel in the field.
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