Sterile Processing Technician II - Sterile Processing - Full Time 8 Hour Nights (Non-Exempt) (Union)

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

3d•$27 - $47

About The Position

Under general supervision of the Sterile Processing Supervisor or Sterile Processing Educator, the Sterile Processing Technician II uses basic sterile processing techniques and skills to decontaminate, operationally check, assemble, sterilize, and distribute reusable surgical and clinical instrumentation and implants throughout the organization. The role operates steam (autoclave) and hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, sonic equipment, automated washers, and heat sealers. It also stores, dates, rotates, and distributes reusable instrumentation in accordance with department requirements and manufacturer instructions for use (IFU). The position supports sterile processing operations at Keck Hospital of USC, a 343-bed acute care hospital providing specialized care for complex medical and surgical conditions. The hospital is an academic medical center with affiliated research institutions and clinical trials.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Completion of a Sterile Processing Program or an accredited Surgical Technician program; if no program was completed, an additional three years of experience as a Sterile Processing Technician is required.
One year of sterile processing experience.
Basic knowledge of computer systems, including Windows OS and keyboard and mouse operation.
Ability to operate complex machinery, including washers, ultrasonic cleaners, and sterilizers.
Demonstrated ability to competently perform multiple, complex tasks.
Knowledge of medical terminology.
Current Sterile Processing Technician certification through an accredited organization (HSPA or CBSPD), or a valid Certified Surgical Tech (CST) or Surgery-Certified Credential (TS-C) from CAAHEP or ABHES; certification must be renewed before expiration.
LA City Fire Life Safety Training; if the card is not held upon hire, it must be obtained within 30 days of hire and maintained through renewal. Required within LA City only.

Responsibilities

Assemble and package surgical and clinic procedure instrument sets according to electronic count sheets, protocols, and manufacturer IFU; check instruments for functionality and cleanliness.
Disassemble instruments and equipment, remove gross contamination, manually wash instruments, decontaminate them, and load automated washers according to manufacturer IFU.
Operate and maintain sterilization and disinfection equipment according to established protocols and professional standards.
Maintain sterilization documentation for processed items, quality assurance, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Dispense sterile instrumentation to appropriate locations in Sterile Storage and the OR; maintain inventory through par-level maintenance, stock rotation, and quality assurance; distribute sterile clinic instrumentation.
Coordinate timely and efficient processing flows through communication with other departments and sterile processing technicians.
Train and assist other Sterile Processing Technicians in assigned duties; provide guidance or work direction to Sterile Processing Technician I as needed.
Troubleshoot routine equipment, instrument, and customer issues, and work with the OR, ancillary departments, and other customers to resolve them.
Receive loaner trays through Casechek and communicate with outside companies to help resolve instrument issues.
Prepare loads and operate equipment used in sterilization processes.
Follow SPD policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures.
Prepare OR case carts, add missing items to the OR shortage list, and inspect packages for indications of proper sterilization.
Document and log information and use the Censitrac tracking system.
Perform other duties as assigned.