Sterile Processing Technician (CRCST/HSPA)

Sterile Processing Technician

We are seeking experienced Sterile Processing Technicians (SPTs) to support the Sterile Processing Service (SPS) department at the VA New Jersey Healthcare System in East Orange, NJ. Technicians will be responsible for decontamination, sterilization, inspection, assembly, storage, and distribution of reusable medical equipment (RME) and surgical instrumentation in accordance with industry standards and VA requirements.

Available Shifts

• Tour 1: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Tour 2: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM
• Tour 3: 3:30 PM – 12:00 AM

Monday through Friday. No overtime.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform decontamination, sterilization, and high-level disinfection (HLD) processes.
• Clean, inspect, assemble, package, and store surgical instruments and reusable medical devices.
• Operate sterilization systems including Steam Sterilizers, Sterrad, VPRO, Medivator, Trophon, and Cidex OPA.
• Conduct biological testing, chemical testing, Bowie-Dick testing, and maintain quality assurance documentation.
• Identify damaged or malfunctioning instruments and facilitate replacement.
• Process and support instruments used across multiple specialties including General Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Urology, Vascular, Dental, Podiatry, Robotics, and GYN.
• Follow manufacturers' Instructions for Use (IFUs) for flexible endoscopes and medical equipment.
• Utilize instrument tracking systems such as CensiTrac.
• Maintain compliance with infection control, OSHA, HIPAA, and VA policies.
• Perform physical duties including standing, lifting, bending, and pushing instrument carts.

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must meet one of the following requirements:

• Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), OR
• Certification through Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), OR
• Graduate of an accredited Sterile Processing program with at least 2 years of SPS experience, OR
• VA Level I Certification with at least 2 years of SPS experience, OR
• Minimum 5 years of verifiable hands-on Sterile Processing experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of infection prevention and sterilization principles.
• Experience with decontamination and sterilization equipment.
• Knowledge of biological monitoring and quality assurance procedures.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and schedules.

Required Certifications & Compliance

• Current CRCST/HSPA certification (preferred).
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

Work Environment

• Hot, humid, and fast-paced sterile processing environment.
• Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Frequent standing, lifting, and movement throughout the shift.
• Ability to travel between VA sites if needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a hospital Sterile Processing Department.
• Experience with CensiTrac or similar instrument tracking systems.
• Experience supporting multiple surgical specialties.
• Previous VA or federal healthcare experience.