Sterile Processing Technician - St. Luke's

Surgical Solutions Sterile Processing Technician

The Surgical Solutions Sterile Processing Technician is a key member of SPD, providing essential support to the hospital. This role involves superior customer service standards while upholding industry standards. The position reports to the Account Supervisor and operates in a fast-paced, high-stakes hospital environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

Sterile Processing Department

• Manages the handling and processing of surgical instruments and equipment.
• Requisitions, replenishes, and cleans sterilization equipment and instruments as needed.
• Retrieves and transports soiled equipment and instruments from point of use.
• Organizes, loads, unloads, and cleans equipment and instruments following established protocols.
• Oversees and supports the sterilization workflow from start to finish.
• Builds instruments trays, packages, and supply sets and readies all items for sterilization.
• Processes instruments, equipment, and supplies though sterilization cycles, ensures proper handling and storage upon completion.
• Conducts biological and chemical indicator testing in compliance with quality assurance protocols.
• Performs routine tray audits to verify accuracy and completeness.
• Collaborates with manager, supervisors, and OR staff to develop and implement service improvement strategies.
• Maintains accurate and thorough documentation of all relevant activities.
• Stays current with new information and applies updated procedures and equipment as introduced.
• Acts as a welcoming and knowledgeable resource for newly onboarded team members.
• Supports departmental projects or rotations as requested.

Professional Conduct and Availability

• Deliver consistent, high-quality service while maintaining professional relationships with staff.
• Ensure punctuality and flexibility, including availability for on-call and rotational shifts (weekdays, weekends, and holidays).
• Completes education courses and competencies as required and assigned.

Technology Utilization

• Learn and effectively use new technologies as outlined in the company's Technology Policy.

Skills and Abilities

Demonstrate reliability and consistent on-site attendance. Must be able to work Sunday-Saturday, which includes 24/7 coverage on a rotational basis during weekdays, weekends, and holidays. This position typically entails a 40-hour workweek and additional hours may be required based on workflow or schedule to ensure customers receive the highest level of service. Work effectively under high-stress conditions, making critical decisions in emergencies. Build rapport with clients and colleagues while maintaining professionalism. Operate independently and as part of a team, showing respect and consideration for others. Adapt to a fast-paced hospital environment involving exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemical disinfectants, and infectious materials. Familiarity with sterilization supplies, instrumentation and processing equipment. Ability to follow written protocols and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Basic computer proficiency sufficient to support documentation and workflow tasks.

Physical Demands

Ability to perform tasks involving bending, squatting, kneeling, crawling, and maneuvering heavy equipment. Stand for prolonged periods and lift/carry items up to 50 pounds individually or more with assistance. Meet vision and hearing standards, including color recognition, necessary for job functions. Wear personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, gowns, eye protection) as required.

Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or GED required. Certifications: Certified Registered Central Sterile Technician (CRCST) or Certified Surgical Technician preferred. CRCST must be obtained within 180 days of hire and maintain active certification throughout employment. Experience: One year of SPD or OR experience preferred. 2-5 years of face-to-face customer service experience required. Additional Requirements: Strong communication skills with the ability to anticipate and respond to needs quickly and accurately. Availability for 24/7 hospital coverage, including rotational shifts on weekdays, weekends, and holidays.