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If you’re considering a career in sterile processing, you’re probably wondering how much money you can make. Here’s a look at what sterile processing techs make, on average, in the United States.
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Job Description
A sterile processing technician (SPT) works in a hospital or other healthcare facility and is responsible for the cleaning, decontamination, packaging, and sterilization of surgical instruments and other medical equipment. The SPT is also responsible for ensuring that the proper infection control procedures are followed in order to prevent the spread of disease.
In order to become an SPT, one must complete a sterile processing program which is typically offered at community colleges and technical schools. Some facilities may require certification from the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).
The median annual salary for an SPT was $37,040 in May 2019, with the top 10% earning more than $56,990.
Education and Training Requirements
Most sterile processing techs have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most techs receive on-the-job training. Some community colleges offer certificate or diploma programs in sterile processing, which can lead to entry-level jobs. Sterile processing technicians must be able to follow written and oral instructions, maintain accuracy and pay close attention to detail. They also need manual dexterity to assemble and manipulate small instruments.
Salary and Job Outlook
Sterile processing techs earned a median salary of $43,180 in 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Job growth for sterile processing techs is projected to be much faster than average at 9% from 2019 to 2029, according to the BLS.
Certification
The Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) offers the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) credential. To be eligible for this credential, individuals must have worked full-time as sterile processing technicians for at least 2 years and completed an accredited training program or have a minimum of 4 years of experience. They must also pass a written examination.
Important Qualities
Sterile processing techs must be able to focus on detail in order to sterilize equipment and prevent the spread of infection. They also need manual dexterity to handle small instruments and tools and must be able to stand for long periods.
Work Schedule
While sterile processing techs typically work full time, about 1 in 4 worked part time in 2016. Because many hospitals are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, techs may have to work evenings, weekends, or holidays. Overtime hours are common.
Pros and Cons of the Job
Operating room technicians, also called surgical technologists, work under the supervision of surgeons and registered nurses in hospitals. They prepare operating rooms for surgery by sterilizing equipment and setting it up. They also help surgeons during surgery by passing them instruments and making sure the operating room is ready for the next step.
Operating room technicians typically have an associate’s degree or a certificate from an accredited surgical technology program. Some states regulate operating room technicians, and most employers require certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting or the National Healthcare Association.
Operating room technicians typically work in hospitals, but some may work in physicians’ offices or out-patient surgery centers. They usually work full time, but some may work evenings or weekends to meet the needs of their employers.
Operating room technicians typically have an associate’s degree or a certificate from an accredited surgical technology program. Some states regulate operating room technicians, and most employers require certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting or the National Healthcare Association.
