Sterile Processing Technician - Surgical Services

Overview

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for decontaminating and inspecting tools, assembling instrument trays, operating sterilization equipment, and maintaining accurate records. The technician works closely with surgical teams and other healthcare staff to ensure timely delivery of sterile supplies and supports infection control efforts across the facility.

• Cleans, disinfects, and decontaminates surgical instruments and medical equipment using approved methods and solutions.
• Operates washer-disinfectors, ultrasonic cleaners, and other sanitation equipment.
• Inspects instruments for damage, wear, and cleanliness before packaging.
• Assembles instrument trays and surgical kits according to procedural requirements.
• Operates autoclaves and sterilizers following manufacturer guidelines and safety protocols.
• Monitors sterilization cycles using biological and chemical indicators.
• Maintains accurate records of sterilization processes and equipment performance.
• Tracks and manages sterile supply inventory; rotate stock using FIFO practices.
• Identifies and reports shortages or expired items; restock and reprocess as needed.
• Prepares and delivers case carts with correct instruments and supplies for scheduled procedures.
• Responds to urgent supply requests during surgeries or emergencies.
• Follows infection control standards, PPE protocols, and HIPAA regulations.
• Communicates effectively with surgical teams, nursing staff, and supervisors.
• Assists in training new staff and maintaining a clean, organized work environment.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Performs work under direct supervision.
• Handles basic issues and problems, and refers more complex issues to higher-level staff.
• Possesses beginning to working knowledge of subject matter.

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
• Completion of specialized training or education in a related field OR at least six (6) months of relevant work experience.

• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Oral and written communication skills.
• Customer/client orientation.
• Ability to identify and seek needed information.
• Attentiveness.
• Detail oriented.
• Ability to understand and follow directions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and taste or smell. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

• Must possess a valid driver's license with a driving history verified through a motor vehicle report that meets requirements for Cherokee Nation underwriting rating.
• Must obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within six (6) months of employment and maintain throughout employment.
• National Certification as a Central/Sterile Processing Technician or equivalent credential is preferred.

The employee must not be and will not be under sanction by the United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (OIG) or by the General Services Administration (GSA) or listed on the OIG's Cumulative Sanction Report, or the GSA's List of Excluded Providers, or listed on the OIG's List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Must meet and maintain pre-employment and periodic background investigation and adjudication for child care.