Job Summary
The Central Sterilization Technician is responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing surgical instruments and medical equipment. This role ensures that all instruments are properly processed and available for patient care, supporting infection control and safety standards across the healthcare facility.
Key Responsibilities
- Clean, disinfect, and sterilize surgical instruments and medical equipment according to established protocols.
- Assemble instrument trays and sets for surgical and clinical procedures.
- Operate and maintain sterilization equipment such as autoclaves and washers.
- Inspect instruments for functionality and report damaged or missing items.
- Package and label instruments accurately to ensure proper identification.
- Maintain inventory of sterile supplies and ensure timely distribution to departments.
- Adhere to infection control, OSHA, and hospital safety standards.
- Document sterilization cycles, equipment maintenance, and quality assurance checks.
- Collaborate with surgical and nursing staff to meet patient care needs.
- Participate in ongoing training and compliance programs.
Required Qualifications
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Completion of a Central Sterile Processing or Sterile Processing Technician training program.
- Knowledge of sterilization techniques, infection control, and medical terminology.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
- Must have at least 2 years of recent experience in the specialty within the past 2 years.
Preferred Qualifications (if any)
- Prior experience in a hospital or surgical services setting.
- Familiarity with electronic tracking systems for instrument management.
- Advanced training in surgical instrumentation.
Certifications (if any)
- Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) – preferred.
- Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) – preferred.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) – preferred depending on facility requirements.