Sterilization Technician

Dental Sterilization Technician

The Sterilization Technician (ST) works to ensure dental instruments are clean, sterilized, and prepared for the procedure. Under direct supervision, the Sterilization Technician will conduct and organize documentation of sterility assurance testing including biological indicators, perform maintenance of sterilization equipment, and maintain inventory of sterilization. They may also provide support to the care team such as setting up, breaking down, and disinfection of the dental operatory.

CommuniCare+OLE provides an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity and life experience.

CommuniCare+OLE encourages people of all backgrounds to apply including, but not limited to, Black, Indigenous Peoples, people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, veterans, individuals of all ages and religions, and individuals who have been affected by the legal system. You are welcome here.

***The following reflects requirements and essential functions of this position but does not restrict tasks that may be assigned. Essential functions include basic job duties, core elements, or fundamental responsibilities that an employee must perform to hold the position. Employees must be able to perform these essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation (accommodation may be requested). Duties and responsibilities are not all-inclusive, and they may be assigned or reassigned to this job at any time, due to reasonable accommodation or any other reason.***

Minimum Position Requirements: Education, Experience, Skills/Training

Education: High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required. One-year certificate from college or technical school; or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience/Lived Experience: Knowledge of dental instruments, materials, and equipment preferred. Strong organizational and time management skills required. Ability to multitask and follow directions in a fast-paced clinic environment.

Special Skills/Training: Must obtain CPR (BLS) certification and complete an Infection Control course.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Uses appropriate PPE during sterilization, maintaining clean to dirty flow of sterilization to prevent contamination.
• Sterilizes, maintains, bags, wraps, initials, and dates all instruments that are processed to be used in the Dental department per established procedures.
• Decontaminates instruments before placement into ultrasonic following OSHA standards of sterilization.
• Sterilizes dental instruments per manufacturers instructions.
• Package instruments and place in sterilizer per established sterilization procedures.
• Monitors and verifies the effectiveness of the sterilization process by utilizing indicators to ensure critical parameters are met.
• Supports appropriate documentation for each sterilized load.
• Operates and maintains steam autoclaves per manufacturers instructions.
• Maintain adequate inventory that supports sterilization need.
• Completes sterilization of instruments to best support patient flow needs.
• Ensures all sterilization equipment is maintained and reports any issues as they arise.
• Organizes and stores all instruments in a clear and functional manner. Place the newest sterilized pouches in the back.
• Turns over operatories, transporting dirty instruments to the sterilization area safely for processing.
• Monitors spore testing and biological indicators to ensure quality of sterilization
• Prepare procedure set up trays.
• Attends and participates in required meetings, trainings, and educational programs.
• Performs other duties as assigned.