Sterile Processing Technician IV Team Lead

Memorial Hermann Health System•Forrest City, AR

About The Position

The Sterile Processing Technician IV Team Lead mentors, trains, and schedules employees in the Sterile Processing department and assists with supervision, coaching, and leadership of department personnel. The role applies Standard Precautions and principles of Event-Related Sterility while supporting safe, effective department operations. The Team Lead troubleshoots department issues, prepares work schedules, supports the manager with performance matters, and provides input on performance evaluations. The position handles complex assignments and ensures instruments and equipment are appropriately cleaned, inspected, assembled, and prepared for sterilization. It also involves operating and monitoring cleaning and sterilization equipment, tracking supplies, completing quality and infection-control checks, and communicating operational issues to the Operating Room and other areas. The role promotes staff development and organizational goals, serves as a preceptor and resource for less experienced employees, and supports safe, compassionate, personalized, and efficient experiences for patients, colleagues, staff, and visitors.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Certification by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM) is required.
Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) and Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL), or Certified in Sterile Processing Management (CSPM) and Surgical Instrument Specialist Certification (CSIS), are required; certifications may be acquired within one year from the hire date.
At least three years of experience involving sterilization of instruments, equipment, and supplies.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions in English.
Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
Ability to lift and/or maneuver supplies and equipment in conjunction with others to perform job functions.
Advanced computer skills and knowledge of Sterile Processing Information Systems.
Demonstrated critical and strategic thinking, advanced problem-solving skills, and effective oral and written communication skills.
Advanced leadership, coaching, and mentorship skills in a team environment.
Ability to maintain composure and a professional demeanor during tense or stressful situations.
Demonstrate reliability and a customer-service-oriented attitude through innovation, accountability, collaboration, and compassion.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of leadership or management experience.

Responsibilities

Troubleshoot problems and strategically resolve issues within the Sterile Processing Department.
Train and mentor Sterile Processing Technicians and prepare team members on hospital or medical facility sterilization standards.
Prepare work schedules, assist the manager with performance issues, and provide input on performance evaluations.
Apply expert knowledge of Sterile Processing department rules, procedures, and processes.
Ensure instruments and equipment are handled appropriately, including selecting cleaning agents and lubricants, examining function, identifying and assembling items according to count sheets, and preparing them for sterilization.
Load, monitor, operate, and maintain different types of cleaning and sterilization equipment and machinery safely and accurately.
Monitor supplies and materials inventory.
Complete quality-control and infection-control standards checks as needed.
Communicate delays and supply, instrumentation, equipment, or substitution issues involving the Operating Room and other areas.
Regularly accept and complete the most complex assignments.
Ensure safe care for patients, staff, and visitors and adhere to Memorial Hermann policies, procedures, and standards, including budgetary specifications for time management, supply management, productivity, and quality of service.
Meet mandatory and continuing education and skills competency requirements, support department goals, and serve as a preceptor, mentor, and resource to less experienced staff.
Model Memorial Hermann service standards by providing safe, caring, personalized, and efficient experiences to patients and colleagues.
Perform other duties as assigned.