Sterile Processing Technician
About The Position
The Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC is seeking a skilled Sterile Processing Technician to join our team. This position plays a critical role in ensuring the highest standards of patient safety and clinical care by cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing dental instruments, bur blocks, handpieces, cassettes, and equipment. You will help maintain smooth clinical operations by preparing instrument packs, managing inventory, and supporting compliance with infection control standards. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a leading dental school that values collaboration, professional growth, and a commitment to excellence. This role directly supports USC’s mission of excellence in education and patient care by ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed clinically and academically. You’ll be joining a collaborative team in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment where your contributions have a meaningful impact every day.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- 1–2 years of experience in sterile processing, preferably in a dental or clinical environment.
- Working knowledge of sterilization techniques and equipment.
- Experience with sterilizers, washers, and handpiece maintenance systems.
- One of the following certifications is required: Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) Certified Surgical Technician (CST)
- Candidates with 10+ years of sterile processing experience may substitute for certification.
Nice To Haves
- Specialized technical training in sterile processing preferred.
Responsibilities
- Clean, disinfect, and sterilize dental instruments and equipment according to manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU).
- Operate ultrasonic cleaners, washers, sterilizers, and handpiece maintenance systems.
- Inspect, assemble, and prepare instruments for sterilization, identifying items needing repair or replacement.
- Dispense and receive instruments using our electronic health record inventory tracking system.
- Conduct Bowie-Dick and biological indicator tests to validate sterilization processes, maintaining accurate records for compliance.
- Perform weekly washer verification testing and maintain documentation.
- Maintain inventory levels of sterile instruments and supplies, replacing barcodes as needed.
- Follow infection control, PPE, and safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
