Sterile Processing Technician
Advocate Sherman Hospital – Elgin, IL
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]
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.
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.
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Wear appropriate protective equipment when performing decontamination
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Follow established procedures for decontamination and handling of equipment
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Collect soiled/reusable equipment each shift using proper transport techniques
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Maintain a clean and organized work environment
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Clean and disinfect equipment and work areas at shift completion
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Report equipment malfunctions and handle infectious waste per protocol
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Assemble and monitor test packs (chemical and biological indicators)
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Interpret sterilizer data and monitor all sterilization cycles
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Label and document all sterilized items accurately
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Position items appropriately to ensure effective sterilization
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Report sterilizer malfunctions immediately
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Sort and distribute sterile supplies appropriately by department
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Maintain inventory using first-in/first-out (FIFO) processes
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Prepare and deliver case carts to the operating room per schedule
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Respond to supply requests, including urgent and STAT needs
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Receive and stock supplies from internal and external sources
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Maintain clean, contaminant-free storage and work areas
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Inspect instrumentation for cleanliness, function, and completeness
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Assemble instrument sets according to department specifications
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Complete count sheets and documentation accurately
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Package and wrap items for terminal sterilization
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Ensure equipment is complete, functional, and ready for use
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Perform required sterilizer testing (biological, chemical, Bowie-Dick)
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Validate sterilization cycles using appropriate indicators
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Communicate effectively with team members and clinical partners
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Collaborate to prioritize workload and meet department needs
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Complete documentation including load records, reports, and QI data
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Participate in cross-training and support all areas of the department
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CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) required within 18 months of hire
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High school diploma or equivalent required
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Minimum 1 year of sterile processing or related experience required
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Healthcare experience preferred
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Schedule: PRN - As Needed - Day Shift needs, some call required
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FTE: PRN - As Needed
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On-call requirement: some/rotating
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Strong communication and teamwork skills
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Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
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Basic computer skills
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Ability to work in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment
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Ability to lift:
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10–20 lbs continuously
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25–50 lbs frequently
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50–100 lbs occasionally
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Strength and dexterity to handle surgical instruments and equipment
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Ability to stand, walk, and access all areas of the department
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Exposure to blood/body fluids and infectious materials
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Exposure to sterilization chemicals (including ETO)
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Ability to respond quickly to emergent situations
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Hepatitis vaccination required at hire
Advocate Health is committed to diversity and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer.
