Sterile Processing Apprentice

Sterile Processing Apprentice

PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center | Springfield, OR Full Time | 1.00 FTE | Variable Shift Pay Range: $19.62 - $29.44 per hour

The hiring rate is dependent upon several factors, including but not limited to education, training, work experience, terms of any applicable collective bargaining agreement, seniority, etc.

If you've been looking for a meaningful way to start a healthcare career, this is your opportunity to learn a high-demand profession while making a direct impact on patient safety every single day. As a Sterile Processing Apprentice at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center, you'll receive hands-on training, work alongside experienced healthcare professionals, and build toward an industry-recognized certification that can open doors to a long-term career in healthcare.

Why PeaceHealth? Why Now?

Not everyone in a hospital cares for patients face-to-face, but every patient depends on the work they do. If you're ready to build a healthcare career with purpose, training, and growth opportunities, our Sterile Processing Apprenticeship offers a direct pathway into a respected healthcare profession.

What's in it for you?

• Earn while you learn. Gain paid, hands-on experience while completing apprenticeship training toward your Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) credential.
• Start a career, not just a job. Build specialized healthcare skills that are in demand across hospitals nationwide.
• Make a real impact behind the scenes. Every instrument you prepare helps surgeons, nurses, and physicians provide safe patient care.
• Work with advanced medical technology. Learn industry-standard sterilization, decontamination, and instrument management practices in a busy regional medical center.
• Join a mission-driven team. Be surrounded by caregivers who are committed to serving patients, supporting one another, and helping new team members succeed.

About the Role

As a Sterile Processing Apprentice, you'll learn the essential work that keeps patient care moving safely and efficiently throughout the hospital. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, you'll develop the skills needed to inspect, clean, assemble, sterilize, track, and distribute the instruments and equipment used throughout our medical center.

No prior sterile processing experience is required. We'll provide the training, mentorship, and support needed to help you succeed.

What You'll Do

• Learn how surgical instruments and medical equipment are cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized.
• Assemble instrument trays used for surgical and procedural cases.
• Inspect instruments to ensure they are functioning properly and ready for patient care.
• Prepare, package, and label supplies for sterilization.
• Operate sterilization equipment and document quality control processes.
• Track instruments and supplies using hospital technology systems.
• Deliver supplies and equipment throughout the hospital.
• Maintain accurate records and inventory.
• Help ensure caregivers have the sterile tools they need when they need them.
• Participate in apprenticeship coursework and on-the-job training.
• Receive coaching, mentorship, and feedback to support your professional development.

Success Matrix: How Your Work Impacts Patients

At PeaceHealth, success isn't measured solely by tasks completed. It's measured by the difference your work makes for patients, families, and clinical teams.

In Your First 90 Days

• Learn safe instrument handling, cleaning, and sterilization practices.
• Build confidence using sterile processing equipment and technology.
• Develop strong working relationships with surgical and clinical teams.

Within Your First Year

• Progress toward CRCST certification requirements.
• Independently manage assigned workflows with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Help ensure surgical teams have the instruments needed for patient procedures.

Long-Term Impact

• Reduce delays and cancellations related to missing or unavailable instruments.
• Help prevent infection risks through proper sterilization practices.
• Support safe, efficient patient care across multiple hospital departments.
• Contribute to positive patient outcomes by ensuring caregivers have reliable, ready-to-use equipment.

What You'll Bring

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Interest in healthcare, patient safety, or clinical support careers.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to stay organized and manage multiple priorities.
• Comfort learning new technology and computer systems.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Commitment to teamwork and continuous learning.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.

Apprenticeship Requirements

• Meet all related instruction program requirements.
• Successfully complete apprenticeship training and coursework.
• Work toward earning the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) credential.

Nice to Have

Experience in healthcare, customer service, hospitality, manufacturing, logistics, or other detail-oriented environments can help you transition into this role, but it's not required. We understand great caregivers come from many different backgrounds, and we'll provide training and support to help you build a successful career while maintaining balance between work, learning, and life outside of work.

Life at PeaceHealth

At PeaceHealth, we believe exceptional patient care begins with caring for our caregivers. You'll join a collaborative team that values respect, belonging, professional growth, and continuous learning.

We're committed to creating a workplace where people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Why Springfield, Oregon?

Located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Springfield offers a unique combination of career opportunity and outdoor adventure.

• Minutes from hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking.
• Easy access to Oregon's mountains, rivers, forests, and coastline.
• Vibrant local food, arts, and cultural communities.
• More affordable living than many larger West Coast markets.
• A community known for its welcoming spirit and exceptional quality of life.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a lifelong Oregonian, or someone looking for a fresh start, Springfield offers the opportunity to build both a career and a life you love.

Total Rewards & Benefits

PeaceHealth is committed to supporting the physical, emotional, financial, social, and spiritual wellbeing of our caregivers. Eligible caregivers may receive:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions and matching opportunities
• Generous paid time off
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance
• Tuition assistance and continuing education reimbursement
• Wellness resources and programs
• Expanded Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Mental health and emotional wellbeing support
• Career growth and development opportunities

For full consideration of your skills and abilities, please attach a current resume with your application.

PeaceHealth is committed to Inclusivity, Respect for Diversity, and Cultural Humility. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities, and comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws.