Sterilization Specialist - Technician

Overview

This role is responsible for the thorough cleaning, preparation, sterilization, and distribution of surgical tools and medical devices in accordance with established hospital policies and procedures. It ensures all equipment is sterilized and ready for use in patient and surgical care settings.

Primary Duties

• Receive, sort, and examine used surgical instruments and equipment prior to decontamination.
• Manually clean instruments using designated detergents and disinfectants.
• Operate and maintain decontamination machinery including ultrasonic cleaners, washers, and disinfecting units.
• Assemble surgical instrument sets and equipment following specific protocols.
• Package instruments properly with correct wrapping, labeling, and documentation for sterilization.
• Inspect tools for damage or wear and report issues to supervisors.
• Operate sterilization devices such as autoclaves, following manufacturer and institutional guidelines.
• Monitor and log sterilization cycles capturing parameters like time, temperature, and pressure.
• Conduct routine tests (biological, chemical, mechanical) to verify sterilization effectiveness.
• Store sterilized instruments in designated areas with proper inventory management and rotation.
• Deliver sterilized equipment to operating rooms, clinics, and other relevant departments.
• Maintain accurate documentation of sterilization procedures, inventory, and quality control activities.
• Follow infection control and safety protocols rigorously to avoid contamination.
• Participate in maintenance, calibration, equipment performance checks, and quality improvement projects.
• Report equipment malfunctions, incidents, or safety hazards to supervisors promptly.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards such as Joint Commission, OSHA, and facility policies.
• Engage in ongoing training and education to stay current with sterilization technology and practices.
• Attend departmental meetings and contribute actively to continuous improvement efforts.
• Communicate compassionately with patients and staff and maintain a positive, proactive attitude toward challenges.

Organizational Standards

• Support person-centered care values in all duties.
• Actively participate in continuous improvement within role scope.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information encountered during work.
• Follow cybersecurity standards and participate in awareness and prevention training.
• Adhere to institutional code of conduct, policies, and ethical standards.
• Complete all mandatory training at least one month before expiration.

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience as a certified sterilization technician in a clinically complex tertiary health center.
• Knowledge of Performance Improvement processes and international standards governing sterilization.
• Bachelor’s degree, associate degree, or diploma in Health Science or related field.
• Certification or diploma in sterile processing/sterilization.
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid professional license from country of origin and regional healthcare authority (e.g., SCFHS, DHA).
• Certifications including Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and other life support training courses as applicable.