Sterile Processing Tech Trainee

Community Memorial Healthcare•San Buenaventura (Ventura), CA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of experienced Sterile Processing staff, the Sterile Processing Technician Trainee participates in a structured Sterile Processing Technician training program designed to develop the knowledge and technical skills required for the role. Learns and applies sterile processing principles, including instrument inspection, assembly, decontamination, sterilization, infection prevention practices, and department operations. Progresses toward competency through hands-on training, education, and demonstrated proficiency in sterile processing procedures.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a healthcare, customer service, or manufacturing; exposure to sterile processing
Enrollment in or completion of a Sterile Processing Technician training program

Responsibilities

Completes assigned educational materials, including Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) ST79 standards, department policies, and training modules, to develop foundational knowledge of sterile processing. Reviews in-house sterile processing materials with the Sterile Processing Department (SDP) Coordinator.
Learns and practices proper procedures for cleaning, decontaminating, inspecting, and disassembling surgical instruments and medical equipment under the guidance of experienced staff.
Develops knowledge of surgical instruments and instrument sets, including proper inspection, assembly, identification, handling, and care.
Learns proper sterilization documentation procedures, including recording sterilization logs, mechanical printouts, biological and chemical testing results, and lot label documentation under supervision.
Learns the safe operation of sterilizers, instrument washers, and related equipment while following manufacturer instructions and department policies.
Learns to prepare instruments and instrument trays for sterilisation using approved wrapping techniques, peel pouches, rigid containers, labeling requirements, and quality standards.
Assists with routine testing and monitoring of sterilizers and instrument washers while learning to accurately maintain required records and documentation.
Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment consistent with department standards, infection prevention practices, and regulatory requirements.
Responds appropriately to department phone calls and routine requests while providing excellent customer service.
Learns and follows instrument tracking and recall procedures, including the application of lot labels to sterilized items.
Demonstrates professionalism by adhering to department policies, dress code requirements, Standard Precautions, and organizational expectations.
Learns and applies infection prevention and control principles during all assigned work activities.
Assists with inventory management, stocking, organization, and supply replenishment under the direction of experienced staff.
Participates in department meetings, educational activities, competency assessments, and performance improvement initiatives.
Demonstrates progressive development of knowledge, technical skills, and competency throughout the Sterile Processing Technician training program while performing assigned duties under appropriate supervision.
Performs other duties as assigned.