Sterile Processing Technician

Position Summary

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for the decontamination, inspection, assembly, sterilization, and distribution of surgical instruments and equipment to support safe patient care in an outpatient surgical center. This role ensures that all surgical instruments and supplies are processed according to industry standards, regulatory requirements, and facility policies to maintain a sterile and safe environment for surgical procedures.

The technician works closely with clinical and operating room staff to ensure timely instrument availability and compliance with infection control and sterilization standards.

Key Responsibilities

Instrument Reprocessing and Sterilization: Receive, sort, and decontaminate surgical instruments, equipment, and trays following established infection prevention protocols. Inspect instruments for cleanliness, functionality, and damage; identify items requiring repair or replacement. Assemble instrument trays and surgical sets accurately in accordance with count sheets and surgeon preference cards.

Operate and monitor washers, ultrasonic cleaners, autoclaves, and other sterilization equipment. Select appropriate sterilization methods (steam, low-temperature, or chemical) based on equipment specifications and manufacturer guidelines. Maintain accurate sterilization records, logs, and documentation to ensure traceability and regulatory compliance.

Inventory, Storage, and Distribution: Maintain adequate inventory levels of sterile supplies, surgical instruments, and disposable materials. Ensure sterile storage areas remain clean, organized, and protected from contamination. Deliver sterile trays, case carts, and surgical supplies to designated clinical areas in a timely manner.

Rotate stock appropriately to prevent expiration and ensure readiness for surgical cases. Compliance, Safety, and Quality Control: Adhere to regulatory, accreditation, and safety standards including AAMI, AORN, OSHA, CDC, and The Joint Commission guidelines. Participate in routine audits, biological testing, and equipment monitoring to verify sterilization effectiveness.

Follow infection control procedures to maintain a clean and safe work environment. Participate in continuing education, in-service training, and quality improvement initiatives as required.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of a Sterile Processing / Central Service Technician training program preferred. Current certification as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT), or Certified Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).

Minimum one (1) year of sterile processing experience, preferably in an ambulatory surgery center, outpatient clinic, or hospital setting. Experience using electronic instrument tracking systems preferred. Skills and Competencies: Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain high levels of accuracy. Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced surgical environment with strict deadlines.

Strong communication and teamwork skills when collaborating with operating room and clinical staff. Ability to follow detailed protocols, instructions, and manufacturer guidelines. Ability to stand for extended periods and lift or move items weighing up to 35-50 pounds.