Job Title

Sterile Processing Technician

Location

Advocate Sherman Hospital – Elgin, IL

Job Summary

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for supporting patient care through the decontamination, sterilization, assembly, and distribution of patient care equipment and surgical instrumentation. This role ensures safe, high-quality processing in alignment with established procedures to support clinical operations and positive patient outcomes. [R221692 St...All Shifts | PDF]

About Advocate Health

Advocate Health is committed to helping people live well. As one of the nation’s leading health systems, we provide compassionate, high-quality care across the communities we serve. Our team members are empowered to grow, lead, and make a meaningful impact every day.

About the Facility

Advocate Sherman Hospital is a full-service acute care hospital located in Elgin, Illinois. The hospital provides a comprehensive range of medical and surgical services and is committed to delivering high-quality, safe, and patient-centered care. Team members collaborate across disciplines to support exceptional outcomes for patients and the surrounding community.

Major ResponsibilitiesDecontamination of Patient Care EquipmentWear appropriate protective equipment when performing decontaminationFollow established procedures for decontamination and handling of equipmentCollect soiled/reusable equipment each shift using proper transport techniquesMaintain a clean and organized work environmentClean and disinfect equipment and work areas at shift completionReport equipment malfunctions and handle infectious waste per protocolSterilization ProcessesAssemble and monitor test packs (chemical and biological indicators)Interpret sterilizer data and monitor all sterilization cyclesLabel and document all sterilized items accuratelyPosition items appropriately to ensure effective sterilizationReport sterilizer malfunctions immediatelyInventory, Storage & DistributionSort and distribute sterile supplies appropriately by departmentMaintain inventory using first-in/first-out (FIFO) processesPrepare and deliver case carts to the operating room per scheduleRespond to supply requests, including urgent and STAT needsReceive and stock supplies from internal and external sourcesMaintain clean, contaminant-free storage and work areasAssembly, Packaging & Instrument ProcessingInspect instrumentation for cleanliness, function, and completenessAssemble instrument sets according to department specificationsComplete count sheets and documentation accuratelyPackage and wrap items for terminal sterilizationEquipment Validation & Quality AssuranceEnsure equipment is complete, functional, and ready for usePerform required sterilizer testing (biological, chemical, Bowie-Dick)Validate sterilization cycles using appropriate indicatorsCommunication & TeamworkCommunicate effectively with team members and clinical partnersCollaborate to prioritize workload and meet department needsComplete documentation including load records, reports, and QI dataParticipate in cross-training and support all areas of the departmentLicensure, Registration & Certification RequiredCRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) required within 18 months of hireEducation RequiredHigh school diploma or equivalent requiredExperience RequiredMinimum 1 year of sterile processing or related experience requiredHealthcare experience preferredScheduled Hours:Schedule: PRN - As Needed - Day Shift needs, some call requiredFTE: PRN - As NeededOn-call requirement: some/rotatingKnowledge, Skills & Abilities RequiredStrong communication and teamwork skillsAbility to follow written and verbal instructionsBasic computer skillsAbility to work in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environmentPhysical RequirementsAbility to lift:10–20 lbs continuously25–50 lbs frequently50–100 lbs occasionallyStrength and dexterity to handle surgical instruments and equipmentAbility to stand, walk, and access all areas of the departmentWork EnvironmentExposure to blood/body fluids and infectious materialsExposure to sterilization chemicals (including ETO)Ability to respond quickly to emergent situationsHepatitis vaccination required at hireEqual Opportunity Statement

Advocate Health is committed to diversity and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer.