What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sterile Processing Instrument Specialist position at Advocate Aurora Health?
Join our Sterile Processing team as a Sterile Processing Instrument Specialist, where you’ll play a vital role in ensuring safe, efficient, and seamless surgical operations. In this role, you’ll directly support patient care by making sure all instrumentation and supplies are properly managed, maintained, and ready for use. If you thrive in a fast‑paced environment, excel at organization and communication, and enjoy being a key resource for both SPD and OR teams, this position offers an exciting opportunity to make an impact every day.
Essential Functions
Coordinate instrument repairs with approved vendors and maintain accurate tracking logs for all off-site repairs.
Assess surgical case schedules to determine which instrument sets can be temporarily removed from circulation for maintenance.
Manage procurement, tracking, delivery, and return of loaner, vendor, and trial instrument sets.
Order new and replacement instruments and supplies based on inventory levels, par levels, internal requests, and Manager direction—while supporting departmental budget goals.
Assist in resolving instrument or product recalls promptly to support patient safety.
Maintain and update the instrument tracking system, including entering new instruments and building count sheets.
Collaborate closely with SPD Liaisons to ensure instrument sets are complete and available.
Communicate effectively with SPD Supervisors, SPD Liaisons, and OR Clinical Coordinators regarding instrument availability and needs.
Serve as a subject matter expert in all stages of the sterile processing cycle, providing guidance and education as needed.
Support special projects and participate in interdepartmental committees when requested.
Assist with Sterile Processing staffing needs when required.
Education & Experience Requirements
High school diploma or GED required.
Minimum two years of Sterile Processing experience required.
Licensure, Certification & Registration
Certification as a Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) or other recognized sterile processing certification required.
Certification as a Surgical Instrument Specialist required within one year of hire.