Sterile Processing Technician

Position Summary

The Operating Room Sterile Processor supports the surgical team by ensuring all instruments and supplies are properly cleaned, sterilized, and readily available for procedures. This role plays a critical part in maintaining a safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care environment.

Key Responsibilities

Sterile Processing & Instrument Management

• Prepare, clean, wrap, and sterilize surgical instruments, trays, and supplies
• Maintain adequate daily levels of sterile instruments and supplies
• Inspect all sterilized items for integrity and expiration dates
• Perform routine maintenance of instruments and equipment
• Track lost or missing instruments and notify the O.R. Charge Nurse as needed
• Coordinate instrument repairs with the Charge Nurse and maintain repair records
• Maintain accurate inventory of instruments and supplies in assigned work area

Surgical Team Support

• Provide reliable support to nursing staff and physicians
• Anticipate needs and assist with supply stocking and waste management
• Function as a collaborative and proactive member of the surgical team

Quality & Safety

• Follow established sterilization and infection control standards
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
• Support quality improvement initiatives and promote effective communication
• Serve as a liaison between nursing staff and the instrument committee to support patient care

Additional Duties

• Perform general housekeeping tasks
• Complete other related duties as assigned

Reporting Structure

• Reports To: Administrator
• Supervisory Responsibility: None

Work Environment & Relationships

• Internal Contacts: Clinical Operations staff and Business Office personnel
• External Contacts: Physicians, allied health professionals, patients and families, and medical industry representatives

Position Characteristics

• Fast-paced, high-demand environment requiring attention to detail
• Occasional overtime may be required to support patient care needs

Position Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, push, and pull for extended periods (approximately 80% of shift)
• May require patient movement/assistance
• Exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and hazardous materials
• Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required
• Strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills
• Ability to remain flexible and handle periods of stress while maintaining professionalism

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Training in sterile processing or surgical instrument sterilization preferred
• Basic knowledge of surgical instruments and procedures preferred
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team