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1. Know sterile processing’s central role

The sterile processing department in a hospital is commonly referenced as the “heartbeat” of the hospital.

Just as the heart is the delivery hub for oxygen and nutrients for distribution throughout the body, the central service department is where surgical instruments and medical devices are decontaminated, inspected, reassembled, sterilized and packaged for delivery throughout the hospital.

Surgeons, doctors, nurses and medical staff can’t do their jobs without the many sterilized tools and instruments needed to care for patients—just how the brain, lungs and other organs can’t function without a dependable beating heart.

What does a sterile processing technician do?

Sterile processing techs ensure medical instruments are properly inspected, cleaned, and sterilized for use across a hospital, clinic, physician’s office or other healthcare institution.

Technicians typically work in a Sterile Processing Department (SPD) in a hospital, sometimes called a Central Sterile Services Department (CSSD) or Central Supply Department (CSD). Sterile processing is a fast-paced, technical and detail-oriented job requiring high focus and clear collaboration with other medical staff.

Techs must follow strict processes for different types of equipment, using computers to track progress and provide verification that all instruments are accounted for and properly serviced.

Sterile processing techs do not work directly with patients, but their work is imperative to ensure every patient achieves positive health outcomes.

This can be a great starting point for more introverted personality types looking to quickly begin a new career path, become comfortable in a hospital environment, build valuable skills, and truly help those in need.

3. Education requirements

While earning a college degree or professional certificate is not always a requirement to find work as a sterile processing technician, it’s difficult to step into a job with no experience or foundation of knowledge in medical terminology, medical instruments or sterilization processes.

A sterile processing department can be an intimidating place for those new to the profession. You are surrounded by highly specialized instrumentation, machinery, and equipment; all of which you will need to be familiar with—with little margin for error!

The best way to prepare for success in your first entry-level job is to begin training in sterile processing.

Our 24-credit sterile processing diploma program is designed to help you build a strong foundation for success right from the start.

Build your medical vocabulary, learn to identify surgical instrumentation and become well-versed in the cycle of sterilization—and confidently step into your first job as a sterile processing technician.

4. The importance of professional experience

After earning an education in sterile processing, the next step is to find your first job and begin gaining professional experience. 

Job postings for sterile processing technicians may only require a high school diploma or GED. By holding a diploma in sterile processing, you’ll be in a great position to separate yourself from the rest and be truly qualified for the job rather than simply meet the minimum requirements.

Getting certified requires a certain amount of professional experience, and earning certification can be a crucial step to maximizing your ability to qualify for the SPT job you really want.

6. Where you will likely work

The significant majority of sterile processing techs work in general medical and surgical hospitals in a central or sterile processing department. Other types of medical equipment preparers can potentially work in dentist’s offices, outpatient care centers, physician’s offices, and other types of healthcare facilities.

Percent of total occupational employment in industry, May 2023ⁱ