Pay rate is dependent on certification.
Join a team dedicated to patient safety by ensuring the cleanliness, sterility, and availability of critical medical instruments and equipment used throughout the hospital.
At Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center (AVRMC), we understand that quality patient care begins long before a procedure starts. Our Sterile Processing team plays a vital role in supporting healthcare providers by ensuring surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment are properly cleaned, sterilized, assembled, and ready for use. We are seeking a detail-oriented, dependable, and motivated Sterile Processing Technician to join our team in La Junta.
Located just east of the Rocky Mountains, AVRMC proudly serves Southeastern Colorado with high-quality healthcare close to home. If you have a passion for infection prevention, patient safety, and maintaining the highest standards of care, we'd love to hear from you.
Position Summary
As a Sterile Processing Technician, you will be responsible for the decontamination, cleaning, processing, sterilization, storage, and distribution of medical instruments, equipment, and supplies used throughout the facility. This role is essential to maintaining infection prevention standards and ensuring clinicians have the sterile instruments and supplies needed to provide exceptional patient care.
This is a Full-Time position within our Sterile Processing Department.
Key Responsibilities
Instrument Decontamination & Sterilization
• Decontaminate, clean, inspect, and process surgical instruments and medical equipment following established infection prevention standards
- Prepare, wrap, package, and sterilize instruments and supplies using approved sterilization methods
- Operate steam sterilizers and other department equipment safely and effectively
- Perform biological and chemical testing of sterilization equipment and document results appropriately
- Monitor sterilization processes and ensure all items meet established quality and safety standards
- Inspect sterilization equipment daily for proper operation and report any malfunctions promptly
Inventory & Supply Management
• Receive, stock, store, and distribute sterile supplies and equipment throughout the facility
- Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering supplies as needed
- Maintain Sterile Processing storage areas, supply racks, and dispensing systems
- Stock supply carts and ensure nursing units have appropriate inventory available
- Monitor sterility dates and rotate supplies to maintain compliance and readiness
Instrument Assembly & Quality Control
• Assemble instrument trays accurately according to established standards and procedural requirements
- Demonstrate knowledge of instrument identification, handling, care, and tray preparation
- Inspect instruments for cleanliness, functionality, and integrity prior to sterilization
- Maintain accurate records related to sterilization monitoring and quality assurance activities
- Assist with department audits, quality improvement initiatives, and compliance activities
Collaboration & Department Support
• Work collaboratively with Surgical Services and other departments to support patient care needs
- Assist with education, orientation, and training of new personnel as assigned
- Perform routine cleaning of departmental workspaces, shelving, storage cabinets, and equipment
- Assist with clerical and documentation responsibilities related to department operations
- Maintain professional relationships with physicians, staff, and colleagues throughout the organization
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned
Professionalism & Compliance
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA requirements at all times
- Adhere to organizational policies, regulatory standards, and infection prevention practices
- Participate in annual education, competency assessments, and departmental meetings
- Support performance improvement and quality improvement initiatives
- Represent AVRMC in a positive, professional, and service-oriented manner
Qualifications
Required
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment
- Knowledge of infection prevention and aseptic techniques, or ability to learn
- Ability to maintain attention to detail and follow precise procedures
- Sterile Processing Technician certification within 6 to 9 months of hire
Preferred
• One (1) year of Sterile Processing experience
- Current Sterile Processing Technician certification
- Knowledge of medical terminology
- Experience with instrument tray assembly and sterilization processes
- Previous hospital or surgical services experience
Compensation
Starting pay is based on experience, qualifications, and certification status. The posted wage reflects candidates who hold a current Sterile Processing Technician certification. Individuals hired without certification must obtain certification within 6 to 9 months of hire and may be compensated according to AVRMC's certification and experience guidelines.
Why Join AVRMC
We offer a supportive work environment where every employee plays an important role in our mission of providing extraordinary care, no matter their schedule.
Benefits & Perks
Health & Wellness
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (Full-Time)
- Life Insurance (Full-Time)
- Short-Term Disability Coverage (Full-Time)
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) (Full-Time & Part-Time)
- Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance (Full-Time)
- Employee Wellness Programs (All Statuses)
- Gym Membership Discount (Part-Time & Full-Time)
- Employee Assistance Program (All Statuses)
Financial Benefits
• Competitive Pay (All Statuses)
- Shift Differentials (All Statuses)
- Annual Salary Increase Opportunities (All Statuses)
- Generous Paid Time Off (Full-Time & Part-Time)
- 401(k) Retirement Plan (available immediately for eligible employees), Employer Match after 1 Year of Service
Additional Advantages
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligible Employer (All Statuses)
- Colorado FAMLI Program Participation (All Statuses)
(Up to 12 to 16 weeks of paid leave for qualifying life events)
- Identity Theft Protection (Full-Time & Part-Time)
- Rewards & Recognition Programs (All Statuses)
- Cafeteria Meal Discounts (All Statuses)
Ready to Apply?
We're excited that you are considering a career with AVRMC.
Join our mission to provide extraordinary care, because every role matters.
