Director of Sterile Processing - Asheville, NC (Full Time, Direct Hire)

NavitasPartners•Asheville, NC

1d•$110,000 - $170,000

About The Position

The Director of Sterile Processing provides strategic, operational, and clinical oversight for the Sterile Processing Department (SPD). This role ensures the safe, efficient decontamination, sterilization, assembly, and distribution of surgical instruments and medical equipment in compliance with regulatory, accreditation, and infection prevention standards. The Director fosters a culture of accountability, quality assurance, and continuous improvement while aligning departmental performance with organizational goals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Business, Nursing, or a related field (required or strongly preferred).
Minimum 3–5 years of progressive leadership experience in Sterile Processing within an acute care hospital setting.
Demonstrated knowledge of regulatory and accreditation standards.
CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) required.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing Sterile Processing in a high-volume surgical environment preferred.
CHL (Certified Healthcare Leader) or CIS (Certified Instrument Specialist) preferred.
Additional sterile processing certifications are a plus.

Responsibilities

Oversee daily operations of the Sterile Processing Department.
Ensure timely instrument turnaround to support surgical case flow.
Manage staffing, scheduling, and productivity to meet surgical demand.
Maintain appropriate inventory levels of instruments and supplies.
Ensure compliance with AAMI, AORN, CDC, Joint Commission, and other regulatory standards.
Develop and maintain departmental policies, procedures, and workflows.
Lead quality assurance initiatives and performance improvement projects.
Monitor sterilization records, biological testing, and documentation accuracy.
Ensure equipment maintenance and preventive service schedules are maintained.
Develop and manage departmental operating and capital budgets.
Monitor expenses, labor utilization, and supply costs.
Identify cost-saving initiatives while maintaining safety and quality standards.
Recruit, train, and develop sterile processing staff and leaders.
Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching and corrective action when necessary.
Promote a culture of collaboration between SPD, OR, and clinical departments.
Ensure staff maintain required certifications and continuing education.
Partner with surgical services leadership to support service line expansion.
Evaluate and implement new technologies and process improvements.
Participate in hospital committees related to infection prevention and surgical quality.