Sterile Processing Technician III - Sterile Processing - Full Time 10 Hour Days (Non-Exempt) (Union)

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

11h

About The Position

Under the general supervision of the Sterile Processing Supervisor or Sterile Processing Educator, the Sterile Processing Technician III is responsible for decontaminating, checking, assembling, sterilizing, and distributing reusable surgical and clinical instruments and implants throughout the organization, in accordance with department and manufacturer instructions for use. The position operates steam and hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, sonic equipment, automated washers, and heat sealers; stores, dates, rotates, and distributes instruments; and troubleshoots complex equipment, instrument, and customer issues. The role supports sterile processing operations at Keck Hospital of USC, a 343-bed academic acute care hospital providing specialized care for complex medical and surgical conditions. The Technician III also trains and assists other technicians and may provide guidance or work direction to Sterile Processing Technician I staff.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Completion of a Sterile Processing Program or an accredited Surgical Technician program. If the program has not been completed, an additional three years of Sterile Processing Technician experience is required.
Four years of Sterile Processing experience within Keck Hospital of USC or USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Proven leadership abilities.
Detailed knowledge of department policies and procedures and external regulatory requirements.
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.
Current BRCST (Certified Registered Central Services Technician) or CSPDT (Certified Sterile Processing Department Technician) certification through an accredited organization (CBSPD).
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 before expiration; required within LA City only.
Current CHL (Certified Healthcare Leadership) or CSPM (Certified Sterile Processing Management) certification through HSPA or CBSPD. Current Technician III staff hired or transferred into the role before February 1, 2023, who do not hold CHL or CSPM are grandfathered under the previous requirement.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree in a related field.

Responsibilities

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