Sterilization Technician

ZUFALL HEALTH CENTER INC•Bridgewater Township, NJ

7d•$21 - $24

About The Position

Under the direct supervision of the SVP of Dental Services, the Sterilization Technician supports daily operations involving the reprocessing of reusable medical supplies and instruments. This includes decontamination, cleaning, assembly, wrapping, sterilization, and storage in accordance with professional standards, regulations, and infection-control guidelines. The role also assists site staff with sterilization, equipment maintenance, and inventory as needed. Regular travel to Zufall sites is required. The position may involve stressful conditions and irregular hours, as well as frequent exposure to communicable diseases, body fluids, medicinal preparations, radiation, and other conditions common to a clinical environment. Prolonged sitting or standing and repetitive movements associated with dental sterilization may be required.

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge of sterilization techniques and procedures for all phases of general dentistry.
Completion of an accredited course in central sterilization.
Excellent attention to detail.
Excellent communication and teaching skills, with a positive and proactive attitude.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize assignments and responsibilities to meet established deadlines and protocols.
Ability to work with health care professionals from a variety of disciplines to achieve the best results for patients.
Effective oral and written communication skills in English.
Ability to work with people from diverse social, ethnic, and economic backgrounds.
Ability to distinguish letters and symbols and use telephones, computer terminals, and copiers.
Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Certified Registered Central Sterilization Technician (CRCST) or related certification.
Three years of experience as a CRCST in a clinical setting.
Current CPR (BLS) certification.
Ability to work under stressful conditions; irregular hours may be required.
Ability to meet the physical demands of prolonged sitting or standing and repetitive movements, mobility, manual dexterity, and hand-eye coordination associated with dental sterilization.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of materials used in sterilization, including their storage, handling, and applications.
Registered Dental Assistant certification.

Responsibilities

Perform all duties in compliance with the center’s Infection Control Plan and policies, including sterilization procedures, personal protective equipment, and universal precautions.
Perform decontamination, disinfection, and sterilization of instruments, equipment, and clinical areas in dental and medical services, including monitoring processes.
Ensure reusable instruments and equipment are sterile according to directives, protocols, AAMI Guidelines, and other standards.
Review standards and guidelines periodically to maintain compliance and address changes.
Operate and maintain sterilization-area and laboratory equipment according to manufacturer recommendations.
Instruct and oversee site staff on equipment operation and maintenance procedures in sterilization areas.
Ensure proper handling of contaminated or potentially contaminated materials in accordance with center policies and state and federal regulations.
Maintain disinfection and sterilization areas in compliance with regulatory directives, protocols, and center policies related to infection control, exposure control, and safety.
Review quality assurance and monitoring activities related to disinfection and sterilization processes.
Identify areas for improvement and report corrective actions to the Sterilization Technician Coordinator, Director of Dental Services, Director of Nursing, and Infection Control Committee.
Participate in the Infection Control Committee and other related committees as assigned.
Perform sterilization and related procedures independently when delegated and directed by the SVP of Dental Services, in accordance with state law, regulations, and Dental Department directives and protocols.
Maintain medical and dental reusable equipment inventory according to manufacturer instructions and center policies and protocols, and update Information for Use (IFU).
Perform scheduled equipment maintenance and arrange general maintenance with outside vendors when indicated.
Troubleshoot autoclaves and other equipment and contact vendors about parts and repairs at the request of the Dental Director or designee.
Work with other Zufall Health Center departments as scheduled and needed.
Travel regularly to Zufall sites.
Perform other related or necessary tasks, as directed by a supervisor, to achieve organizational and programmatic goals and objectives.
Demonstrate and teach new staff, students, interns, and volunteers how to use equipment and follow proper dental safety and infection-control protocols.
Learn and apply trauma-informed care principles within the scope of the position.
Perform other duties as assigned.