Sterile Processing - Night Shift

Howard University Hospital•Washington, DC

23h•Onsite

About The Position

Howard University Hospital is seeking a dedicated Sterile Processing Technician to join our Perioperative Services team. In this role, you will play a critical part in patient safety by ensuring that surgical instruments and equipment are properly decontaminated, assembled, sterilized, and ready for use across the hospital. You will work in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment supporting a Level 1 Trauma Center, where your attention to detail directly impacts the quality of care our patients receive.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Sterile Processing Technician certification required; candidates without current certification must obtain Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification through HSPA (formerly IAHCSMM), or equivalent certification through CBSPD, within one (1) year of hire.
Knowledge of anatomy fundamentals, sterilization procedures, surgical procedures, and aseptic techniques.
Working knowledge of medical and surgical terminology.
Ability to operate steam autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, washer-disinfectors, and related equipment.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a high-stress, fast-paced environment.
Basic computer skills and effective written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Previous sterile processing experience (preferred).

Responsibilities

Perform decontamination, assembly, sterilization, case cart preparation, instrument processing, and supply inventory duties in strict compliance with AORN, SGNA, AAMI, OSHA, Joint Commission, and applicable regulatory standards.
Clean and operate decontamination and sterilization equipment, including steam autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, and washer-disinfectors, per manufacturer and hospital guidelines.
Process rigid and flexible endoscopes and power equipment per manufacturer specifications.
Inspect, check, and assemble procedure trays and instrument sets for accuracy and completeness.
Prepare case carts for scheduled and add-on surgical cases.
Receive, track, and return loaner instruments in accordance with departmental policy.
Conduct daily biological indicator and verification tests, documenting results and escalating failures per protocol.
Maintain inventory of peel packs and sterile supplies, restocking to par levels.
Maintain accurate records of sterile processing functions to support Quality Assurance and regulatory standards.
Report incidents, injuries, and equipment malfunctions to the Team Leader or manager.