Sterile Processing Technician II

Employment Duration: 3 months The Sterile Processing Technician II decontaminates, inspects, assembles, sterilizes, and distributes surgical instrumentation, implants, supplies, and equipment throughout UCSF Medical Center. The position maintains required documentation, operates sterilization and decontamination equipment and related computer systems, and assists with the training and support of other Sterile Processing Technicians.

The Sterile Processing Technician II also prepares supplies and instrumentation for scheduled and emergent surgical cases using OR preference-card picklists and performs the tasks necessary to prepare and maintain accurate surgical case carts. This position requires flexibility to orient and work at all UCSF Medical Center locations.

Key Responsibilities

Assemble and package OR and clinic instrument sets across a variety of surgical specialties, including identifying, inspecting, and assembling specialty instrumentation and power equipment according to manufacturer guidelines, electronic count sheets, professional standards, and departmental procedures. Inspect instrumentation for functionality, sterility, and cleanliness and appropriately document work using the Sterile Processing Department information system.

Decontaminate surgical instrument sets by inspecting, disassembling, sorting, cleaning, and processing reusable instrumentation using appropriate cleaners, disinfectants, and equipment. Maintain required records related to the receipt and disinfection of instrumentation and equipment. Operate and maintain sterilization equipment in accordance with manufacturer guidelines, established protocols, and professional standards.

Select appropriate sterilization methods, verify required parameters before releasing loads, properly load and unload sterilizer carts, and maintain documentation related to processing, quality assurance, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Gather supplies and instruments for scheduled and emergent cases using OR preference-card picklists and prepare and maintain accurate surgical case carts.

Coordinate with operating room staff to ensure appropriate supplies are delivered for each case and notify appropriate personnel of inventory or supply shortages. Maintain sterile inventory through par-level maintenance, stock rotation, and quality assurance, including appropriate material-dispensation documentation. Maintain efficient workflow through communication with other departments and Sterile Processing staff.

Assist other Sterile Processing Technicians and serve as a resource for SPD technicians, newly hired technicians, and agency-contracted SPD staff regarding task orientation, process flow, and facility layout. Perform required quality and regulatory testing and documentation, including Bowie-Dick tests, 3M tests, test loads, biological indicators, chemical indicators, sterilization-parameter verification, load logs, and recall procedures for failed loads.

Demonstrate effective communication, professionalism, teamwork, cultural sensitivity, confidentiality, infection-control practices, and adherence to UCSF Medical Center safety requirements and PRIDE standards. Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly work environment and appropriately report unsafe conditions or damaged equipment.

May relieve the Sterile Processing Technician 3 of assigned duties when the Technician 3 is unavailable or as directed by Sterile Processing leadership. Maintain flexibility and perform other duties related to the department’s mission as required. N/A Required Qualifications High school graduate, G.E.D., or equivalent.

Minimum of two (2) years of recent Sterile Processing Department (SPD) experience. Previous sterile processing experience supporting orthopedic surgical procedures and orthopedic instrumentation. Possess and maintain current certification as a Sterile Processing Technician through an accredited organization: Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST/IAHCSMM) or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT/CBSPD).

Knowledge of all areas of Sterile Processing, including: Decontamination Inspection, assembly, and packaging Sterilization of packaged medical devices Quality control and sterilization recordkeeping Distribution of sterile products Preparation, building, and quality assurance of case carts Detailed knowledge of and ability to operate machinery including sterilizers, washers, and ultrasonic cleaners.