Sterile Processing Tech II - Lavin, Full-time, Nights

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare • Chicago, IL

8d

About The Position

The Sterile Processing Tech II supports Northwestern Medicine’s patient-first mission and follows the organization’s Code of Ethics, Corporate Compliance Program, policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory and accreditation standards. The role requires thorough knowledge of aseptic and sterilization techniques, infection control, workflow principles, and equipment and supply processing, along with responsible judgment in providing supplies and equipment to patient care areas.

This position works 40 hours per week on a schedule of 11:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. The technician processes and inspects surgical instruments, prepares instrument sets and trays, performs testing and documentation, operates sterilization and decontamination equipment, and supports timely delivery of materials and case carts. The technician also rotates through assigned department areas, acts as a resource and preceptor for staff, and maintains current sterile processing certification.

Requirements

• High school diploma.
• Current certification from NICHSPD, IAHCSMM, or CBSPD.
• Experience and knowledge of surgical instrumentation.
• Experience and knowledge of sterilization processes, decontamination, packing, and shelf life, including aseptic techniques and their application to items processed.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate knowledge and use of the Tray Tracking computer system in assigned areas.
• Decontaminate, disinfect, and/or sterilize surgical instruments in accordance with established policies, procedures, and infection control protocols.
• Inspect, sort, and process surgical instrumentation according to policy and procedures.
• Report and isolate damaged or missing items and notify the Resource Coordinator and Manager.
• Assemble and organize surgical instrument sets according to instrument count sheets.
• Prepare instrument trays for sterilization by wrapping them or using a sterilization container.
• Perform quality assurance and biological testing on equipment and document results.
• Operate ultrasonic cleaners, washer-decontaminators, heat-sealing apparatus, sterilizers, and cart washers within established guidelines.
• Maintain logs and prepare, check, and record test results.
• Approve or refuse materials from the sterilizer based on test results and report adverse results to management.
• Follow proper procedures for equipment malfunctions.
• Prepare and deliver accurate, timely case carts for surgical procedures.
• Respond to customer requests for instruments and supplies in a timely manner.
• Maintain a friendly, clean, and orderly work environment.
• Check and reprocess expired items.
• Prepare and label items accurately for the appropriate sterilization method.
• Act as a resource to other staff.
• Maintain working knowledge of all department areas by rotating through assigned work areas to meet customer service needs.
• Maintain National or International Certification for Sterile Processing and Distribution.
• Take responsibility as a self-directed professional for continuing education.
• Complete work from the previous shift as needed to accommodate department schedules.
• Dispense and deliver materials using dumbwaiters, tube systems, elevators, and/or handcarts.
• Serve as a preceptor while training new employees.
• Communicate issues, problems, and concerns to management in a timely manner.
• Use established communication channels, such as a Spectralink phone, professionally, courteously, and tactfully when coverage is needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Tuition reimbursement
• Loan forgiveness
• 401(k) matching
• Lifecycle benefits
• A wide range of benefits supporting physical, emotional, and financial well-being and protection for unexpected life events

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED