SPD Preceptor

SIPS Consults•Chicago, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The SPD Preceptor is a critical dual-role position responsible for providing structured, hands-on training to new hires, students, and existing SPD staff requiring retraining. The ideal candidate demonstrates a strong interest in education, with aspirations to grow into an educator or trainer role within sterile processing. This individual must have the ability to effectively coach, train, and support staff while maintaining a positive, collaborative attitude that fosters teamwork, trust, and continuous learning across all levels of the department. In addition to precepting duties, the Preceptor functions as a fully qualified Sterile Processing Technician, supporting all core SPD operations when not actively training. This position must remain flexible and adjust workload as needed to ensure all shifts (1st, 2nd, and 3rd) receive training and that competencies are updated on a consistent schedule. The role upholds AAMI, AORN, OSHA, and facility standards, contributes to ongoing quality assurance efforts, and helps ensure a highly competent and compliant SPD workforce.

Requirements

Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or equivalent.
Minimum 2 years of SPD experience with demonstrated expertise in all core areas.
Strong understanding of AAMI, AORN, OSHA, and infection control standards.
Proven communication, mentoring, and documentation skills.
Ability to work independently and maintain professionalism in high-pressure environments.
Prior experience in training, precepting, or supervisory roles.
Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) or Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL) preferred.
Experience with electronic documentation systems and SPD tracking software.
Microsoft Office suite
Basic computer hardware & network troubleshooting techniques
Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and customers
Ability to multi-task between projects
Ethical Conduct
Adherence to SIPS Values
SIPS Policies & Handbook

Nice To Haves

Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) or Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL) preferred.

Responsibilities

Deliver structured training for new hires and student technicians.
Orient new staff to departmental policies, procedures, and safety standards.
Provide consistent, hands-on guidance and skill development across all SPD areas (decontamination, assembly, sterilization, case carts, etc.).
Monitor progress, provide feedback, and escalate concerns to leadership as needed.
Identify skill gaps or performance issues through observation or incident review.
Offer focused one-on-one or small group retraining sessions as assigned.
Track retraining outcomes and provide feedback to leadership on staff progress.
Maintain accurate training logs, checklists, sign-offs, and competency records.
Ensure timely documentation of all precepting and retraining activities.
Must remain flexible and adjust workload as needed to ensure all shifts (1st, 2nd, and 3rd) receive training and that competencies are updated on a consistent schedule.
Collaborate with leadership to align training records with compliance audits and HR requirements.
Perform random audits of SPD workstations, processes, and documentation.
Reinforce adherence to AAMI, OSHA, and internal quality standards.
Participate in error follow-up processes, root cause analysis, and corrective training.
Promote a culture of accountability, accuracy, and patient safety.
Actively participate in SPD functions when not assigned trainees.
Perform routine duties including instrument decontamination, assembly, sterilization, cart building, inventory checks, and equipment maintenance.
Maintain proficiency in all SPD workflows and equipment.
Performs other duties as assigned.