Sterile Processing Tech

Job Summary: 

Performs efficient and meticulous decontamination/sterilization of surgical instruments and equipment, as well as

inspecting and assembling surgical instruments, equipment, trays, and packs according to prescribed protocols and

industry standards for aseptic technique.  Depending on assigned hospital, incumbents rotate assignments among various

decontamination sterilization processing, surgical tray assembly, supply and distribution functions in a continually

changing medical and surgical facility. Work also includes: 1) tray assembly, 2) assisting in recordkeeping and monitoring

equipment operations, 3) maintaining department inventory and 4) identifying and reporting supply, equipment, and

procedure problems and 5) dispensing equipment and supplies. 

Incumbents are also accountable for demonstrating awareness of personal and work area safety at all times; using

evidence-based practices (EBP) and complying with facility safety policies and procedures in carrying out duties including

those for blood borne pathogens and communicable diseases and; keeping knowledge current on aseptic techniques and

basic microbiology sufficient to understand the ways diseases and infections are transmitted and the importance of clean

and sterile supplies in patient care; attending training in new and improved sterilization practices and developments in the

microbiology, bacteriology, and therapeutic practices as they affect the sterile supply operation.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Collects and decontaminates and cleans reusable equipment and/or supplies and associated storage units in accordance with department, manufacturer, and OSHA standards.
• Assembles instruments, complex instrument sets, and other surgical items and kits by selecting theappropriate items, trays, instruments, and arrange them in the correct manner permitting effective sterilization using existing standard operating procedures and surgical case count sheets.
• Sterilizes equipment in accordance with department, manufacturer, and OSHA standards using different agents, which may include steam, hydrogen peroxide, paracetic acid, ethylene oxide, and glutaraldehyde.
• Performs periodic tests on autoclave effectiveness and maintains accurate sterilization records.
• Maintains supply area and inventory levels.

Education/Work Experience Requirements

Graduation from the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management Course (preferred)

and one year of related work experience that demonstrates attainment of the requisite job knowledge skills/abilities,

preferably in an operating room, acute care hospital or central services department preferred.

Licensure/Certification

Current certification as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) by the Healthcare Sterile

Processing Association (HSPA) at hire or within six months of date of hire; OR

Current certification as a Certified Sterile Processing Distribution Technician (CSPDT) by the Certification Board for

Sterile Processing.

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.

Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve. This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.

Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.

We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence. When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.