Sterile Processing Technician - Full-Time
About The Position
As a Sterile Processing Technician, you will help protect patient safety by cleaning, inspecting, assembling, sterilizing, and distributing surgical instruments and medical equipment used throughout the hospital. You will follow established procedures, manufacturer instructions, and quality standards so equipment is properly processed and available when needed, while maintaining accurate documentation and an organized, safe work environment. The role requires attention to detail, the ability to follow written and verbal instructions, and commitment to teamwork and quality care. The position is scheduled for 40 hours per week, working a day shift from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with rotating weekend call shifts. The employee receives direct supervision, with specific instructions and regular checks, and is expected to have working knowledge of regular assignments and perform them satisfactorily. Mercyhealth describes itself as an integrated health system serving northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, with seven hospitals, 85 primary and specialty clinics, and more than 7,500 professionals.
Requirements
- High school diploma, GED, or certificate from a nationally recognized organization.
- Ability to follow written and oral instructions accurately and consistently.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to follow instructions and procedures accurately.
- Problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Commitment to confidentiality and ethical standards.
- Adaptability to changing priorities and environments.
- Customer service orientation and cultural sensitivity.
Responsibilities
- Follow department procedures and manufacturers’ written instructions for use (IFUs) when processing instruments and equipment.
- Disassemble, inspect, and prepare instruments for manual or mechanical decontamination, following Universal Precautions and using PPE appropriately.
- Load and operate mechanical washers and ultrasonic cleaners; manually decontaminate and disinfect instruments as appropriate.
- Inspect cleaned instruments for damage and test them for proper function and sharpness.
- Assemble instrument procedure sets according to tray lists and replace missing instruments as needed.
- Prepare instruments for sterilization using aseptic technique, including wrapping or packaging, use of chemical indicators, and marking packages with identifying data.
- Load and operate steam and hydrogen peroxide sterilizers.
- Use biological, chemical, and process indicators; review and document results in appropriate logs and review physical monitoring printouts to confirm cycle parameters.
- Pick supplies and instruments for case carts according to procedural preference lists; inspect packaging integrity and check items for expiration before distribution.
- Perform high-level disinfection of endoscopes and operate automatic endoscope reprocessors.
- Respond professionally and promptly to routine and urgent customer requests for supplies, instruments, and case carts.
- Notify department leadership of facility or equipment problems and submit work requests as needed.
- Keep assigned work areas and equipment clean and organized to support safe handling of clean and sterile items.
- Maintain working knowledge of surgical instrumentation, instrument assembly, and tracking software.
- Deliver sterile instrumentation to nearby clinical departments and retrieve used instrumentation during rounds.
- Clean non-critical patient care equipment between uses.
- Assist with counting and stocking surgical supply inventory.
- Learn and follow applicable regulatory standards and recommendations, including those from the FDA, AAMI, and The Joint Commission.
- Learn the chemistries used in processing, their effects on instrumentation, and their purposes.
- Learn and use the SPM Instrument tracking system.
- Learn to prepare instruments using Immediate Use Steam Sterilization (IUSS).
- Learn to read and interpret instrument and equipment IFUs to ensure proper reprocessing and assembly.
- Assist with onboarding new partners.
- Perform other duties as assigned based on department needs.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Life and disability insurance.
- FSA/HSA options.
- Generous, accruing paid time off.
- Paid parental and caregiver leave.
- Career advancement and educational opportunities.
- Tuition and certification reimbursement.
- Well-being programs.
- Employee discounts.
- On-demand pay.
- Financial education.
- Annual recognition and awards events.
- Partner appreciation days.
- Family entertainment and attractions discounts.
- Community service and improvement opportunities.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
