Per Diem Sterile Processing Technician

Express Employment Professionals; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Express Employment International (US) seeks a Certified Sterile Processing Technician for per diem staffing in Denver, CO. The role encompasses decontamination, inspection, assembly, packaging, sterilization, and distribution of surgical instruments in a fast-paced SPD environment.

The position requires CRCST or CBSPD CSPDT certification, strong attention to detail, and ability to work independently with flexible scheduling. Per diem staffing supports departmental needs in a healthcare setting.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Current sterile processing certification (CRCST) or CBSPD (CSPDT).
• Knowledge of decontamination, disinfection, inspection, assembly, packaging, and sterilization processes.

Responsibilities

• Perform thorough cleaning, decontamination, and disinfection of surgical instruments and reusable medical devices.
• Follow IFUs and established protocols for all reprocessing activities.
• Inspect instruments for cleanliness, functionality, damage, and proper working condition.
• Assemble, count, and prepare instrument trays according to count sheets and standards.
• Ensure proper packaging, labeling, and preparation of instruments for sterilization.
• Operate steam sterilizers and other sterilization equipment per manufacturer guidelines.
• Monitor and document sterilization cycle parameters and indicator results.
• Maintain documentation and traceability of all sterilization processes.

Skills

Attention to detail

Independent worker

Organizational skills

Team communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CRCST certification

CBSPD CSPDT

Job description

Certified Sterile Processing Technician

Department: Sterile Processing Department (SPD)

Employment Status: Per Diem

The Certified Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for performing all aspects of instrument and equipment reprocessing, including decontamination, inspection, assembly, packaging, sterilization, and distribution of surgical instruments and reusable medical devices. The technician ensures all instruments and equipment are processed in accordance with established facility policies, manufacturer Instructions for Use (IFUs), industry standards, and regulatory requirements. This position plays a critical role in maintaining patient safety, preventing healthcare-associated infections, and supporting the efficient operation of surgical and clinical services. The Per Diem Certified Sterile Processing Technician provides flexible staffing support based on departmental needs and is expected to demonstrate a high level of technical competency, professionalism, reliability, and independence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform thorough cleaning, decontamination, and disinfection of surgical instruments and reusable medical devices.
• Follow manufacturer Instructions for Use (IFUs) and established protocols for all reprocessing activities.
• Inspect instruments for cleanliness, functionality, damage, and proper working condition.
• Assemble, count, and prepare surgical instrument trays according to established count sheets and departmental standards.
• Ensure proper packaging, labeling, and preparation of instruments for sterilization.
• Operate steam sterilizers and other approved sterilization equipment according to manufacturer guidelines.
• Monitor, interpret, and document sterilization cycle parameters and chemical and biological indicator results.
• Perform routine quality assurance checks and report any failed or questionable sterilization results immediately.
• Maintain accurate documentation and traceability of all sterilization processes.
• Maintain appropriate inventory of sterile instruments, supplies, and equipment.
• Ensure proper storage, handling, and distribution of sterile supplies.
• Identify and report missing, damaged, or malfunctioning instruments and equipment.
• Demonstrate knowledge of specialty surgical instruments and complex instrument sets.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas throughout all areas of sterile processing.
• Follow infection prevention practices, OSHA requirements, and applicable AAMI standards.
• Communicate effectively with operating room staff, nursing personnel, and departmental leadership regarding instrument availability and processing concerns.
• Participate in departmental training, quality improvement initiatives, and competency assessments.
• Perform other duties as assigned by departmental leadership.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Current sterile processing certification (CRCST) or CBSPD (CSPDT).
• Demonstrated knowledge of decontamination, disinfection, inspection, assembly, packaging, and sterilization processes.
• Knowledge of surgical instrumentation and medical device reprocessing.
• Understanding of infection prevention principles and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to interpret and follow manufacturer Instructions for Use (IFUs).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate sound judgment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 months of sterile processing experience in an acute care hospital or ambulatory surgery center.
• Experience with complex surgical instrumentation and specialty instrument trays.
• Experience with sterilization documentation, tracking systems, and quality assurance processes.
• Experience supporting operating room and surgical services departments.

Per Diem Scheduling Requirements

Maintain current availability and work on an as-needed basis to support departmental staffing needs. Meet the facility's established minimum shift commitment for per diem employees. Provide availability in advance to assist with staffing and scheduling. Be available for weekends, holidays, and varying shifts as departmental needs require. Demonstrate flexibility when providing coverage for staffing shortages and increased surgical volume. Maintain all required certifications, competencies, annual education, and facility training.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull instrument trays, equipment, and supplies within facility-established limits.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks requiring manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures, including decontamination and sterile storage areas.

Performance Expectations

The Certified Sterile Processing Technician is expected to: Consistently demonstrate competency in all areas of sterile processing. Maintain accuracy and efficiency while prioritizing patient safety. Follow established policies, procedures, and manufacturer instructions without deviation. Demonstrate accountability, reliability, and professionalism. Maintain effective communication and teamwork with all departments. Identify opportunities for process improvement and contribute to maintaining departmental quality standards.

Work Environment

This position operates in a fast-paced healthcare environment requiring strict adherence to infection prevention, quality assurance, and patient safety standards. The technician must demonstrate flexibility, dependability, professionalism, and the ability to function independently while supporting the needs of the Sterile Processing Department.