Sterile Processing Technician

Vrcvet; Bend (OR); On-site; USD 38,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical plan options with 70% coverage

Dental/Vision plan options with 50%

Profit sharing

401K matching

Continuing education stipends

Job summary

The Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon (VRCCO) is seeking a dedicated Sterile Processor to uphold the highest standards of instrument sterilization and infection control in our busy hospital.

You will prepare surgical packs, maintain SOPs, monitor sterilization quality, and support equipment maintenance while training staff and collaborating with veterinarians and technicians to ensure patient safety and exceptional care.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; certification in sterile processing preferred.
• Experience in a veterinary hospital or healthcare setting is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of infection control principles.

Responsibilities

• Operate autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, and other equipment per protocol.
• Assemble and prepare sterile surgical packs with proper labeling and organization.
• Draft, review, and update SOPs related to sterilization and infection control.
• Perform routine quality checks and maintain sterilization records.
• Inspect and maintain sterilization equipment; coordinate repairs as needed.
• Train staff on proper sterilization techniques and infection control.

Skills

Sterile processing

Infection control

SOP development

Documentation

Team training

Education

High school diploma

Sterile processing certification preferred

Tools

Autoclaves

Ultrasonic cleaners

Sterilization equipment

Job description

At the Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon (VRCCO), you will become a vital member of a dynamic team dedicated to providing exceptional veterinary care. Our approach combines a commitment to compassionate, individualized care with evidence-based practices, ensuring strong connections between our staff, the patient‑guests, and pet parents we serve.

Position Overview

As a Sterile Processor, you will play a crucial role in maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and infection control in our facility. Your responsibilities will include sterilizing instruments and equipment, preparing surgical packs, conducting equipment and instrument maintenance, writing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and training other employees to ensure the safe and effective operation of our hospital.

Essential Functions

• Instrument Sterilization: Operate autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, and other sterilization equipment to clean and disinfect surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies according to established protocols.
• Surgical Pack Preparation: Assemble and prepare surgical packs with sterilized instruments and supplies, ensuring accurate labeling and organization for easy accessibility.
• SOP Development: Draft, review, and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to instrument sterilization, equipment maintenance, and infection control. Collaborate with the medical team to ensure SOPs align with best practices and industry standards.
• Quality Control: Monitor the effectiveness of sterilization processes by performing routine quality checks, biological and chemical indicator tests, and maintaining accurate sterilization records.
• Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect, clean, and maintain sterilization equipment and machinery to ensure proper functioning and compliance with safety standards. Coordinate repairs or maintenance with relevant technicians as needed.
• Instrument Maintenance: Collaborate with veterinary technicians and medical staff to identify damaged or malfunctioning surgical instruments. Facilitate repairs, replacements, or maintenance to ensure instruments are in optimal condition for procedures.
• Inventory Management: Maintain an organized inventory of sterile supplies, monitor stock levels, and reorder as necessary to ensure availability of required items at all times.
• Training: Train new and existing staff members on proper sterilization techniques, infection control practices, instrument handling, and equipment maintenance. Provide ongoing education to ensure adherence to protocols and safety measures.
• Collaboration: Collaborate closely with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and other medical staff to meet the hospital's infection control and patient safety goals.
• Compliance: Stay updated on industry standards, regulations, and guidelines related to sterilization, equipment, and instrument maintenance. Ensure the hospital's practices align with these standards.
• Operating Room Transition: Assist with removal of surgical instrumentation from operating room and facilitate transition of the operating room for subsequent patients.
• Emergency Support: Assist in emergency situations by providing sterile supplies and equipment as needed to support the medical team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; certification in sterile processing or related field is preferred.
• Previous experience in a veterinary hospital or healthcare setting is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of infection control principles and practices.
• Familiarity with various sterilization techniques, equipment, and chemical disinfectants.
• Basic knowledge of equipment and instrument maintenance.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for training and collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency in documenting procedures and maintaining accurate records.
• Physical ability to lift and move heavy objects, stand for extended periods, and perform repetitive tasks.

Benefits Highlights

• Medical: Multiple plan options with 70% coverage
• Dental/Vision: Multiple plan options with 50% coverage
• Profit sharing available for all employees
• Savings: 401K matching program
• Stipends for continuing education

Education & Experience

• Minimum education requirement: high school diploma or equivalent
• Preferred: hands‑on experience working in veterinary general practice or veterinary multi‑specialty hospital.

We look forward to hearing from dedicated professionals who are passionate about veterinary care and eager to grow alongside a supportive team.