Position: Sterile Processing Tech 
Location: La Jolla, CA

Job Summary: The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for ensuring the cleanliness, sterility, and proper handling of medical instruments and equipment used in healthcare facilities. This role involves decontaminating, assembling, inspecting, sterilizing, and distributing surgical instruments and supplies according to established protocols and standards. The Sterile Processing Technician plays a critical role in supporting patient safety by maintaining high standards of cleanliness and sterility in medical environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Decontaminate, clean, and disinfect surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies using appropriate techniques and solutions.
• Assemble and inspect surgical instrument trays, ensuring completeness and functionality prior to sterilization.
• Operate sterilization equipment such as autoclaves, ensuring proper settings and cycle parameters are followed.
• Monitor sterilization processes, including biological and chemical indicators, to verify effectiveness and compliance with standards.
• Package sterilized instruments and supplies for distribution, labeling items appropriately for identification.
• Maintain accurate records of sterilization processes, equipment maintenance, and inventory levels.
• Adhere to infection control policies and procedures to prevent the spread of infectious agents.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to prioritize instrument needs and support efficient workflow in surgical settings.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and ongoing education to enhance skills and knowledge in sterile processing practices.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Required Skills & Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of a sterile processing technician program or equivalent training.
• Certification as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) preferred.
• Knowledge of medical terminology, infection control principles, and sterile processing techniques.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and maintain attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with healthcare team members.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Previous experience working in sterile processing or healthcare environment.
• Familiarity with sterilization equipment and systems, including steam, ethylene oxide (EO), and hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilizers.
• Proficiency in using computerized instrument tracking systems or software for inventory management.