Sterile Processing Technician - Earn While You Learn Program

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville, Virginia, Evanston Township (VA, MN, IL); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established academic health system is offering a unique opportunity to join their Earn While You Learn Trainee Program. This program provides structured coursework alongside paid on-the-job training, making it perfect for those starting their healthcare careers. As a full-time employee, you will gain hands-on experience in sterilization and distribution of surgical instruments while receiving support for your educational journey. Ideal for individuals seeking growth in a diverse and collaborative environment, this role promises a rewarding career path with a commitment to exceptional patient care and professional development.

Benefits

Paid Training

Health Benefits

Course and Certification Fees Covered

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED; no prior experience is necessary.
• Good communication, auditory, and visual skills; attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and assemble surgical trays and equipment following established tray listings.
• Decontaminate reusable equipment, instruments, and supplies manually and mechanically.
• Operate the departmental barcode system to record surgical trays and instruments.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Communication Skills

Ability to Lift 25-50 lbs

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

SPM Tracking System

Washer/Sterilizer

Ultrasonic Cleaner

Job description

UVA Earn While You Learn Trainee Program

The UVA Earn While You Learn Trainee Program offers structured coursework and paid on-the-job training as a full-time, benefitted employee. Responsibilities include decontamination, cleaning, assembling, packaging, scanning, sterilization, storage, and distribution of reusable surgical instrumentation and equipment.

Important Notice

*The application window for our June 2025 cohort has concluded. Please consider applying for the October 2025 cohort. Interviews will be scheduled in late June.*

Program Highlights

Join a culture that fosters growth, teamwork, diversity, pride, efficiency, and exceptional patient care. Whether starting your first job or seeking a new healthcare career, our Earn While You Learn programs could be ideal for you.

Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED; no prior experience is necessary. This program is a rewarding career opportunity within a leading academic health system.

Upcoming Program Start Date

The next Sterile Processing Technician EWYL training begins in June 2025.

Learn More

Details on career paths and training are available at: https://hr.virginia.edu/careers-uva/job-openings/earn-while-you-learn

Application Process

If interested, please apply to this posting. A recruiter will contact you via Teams to schedule an interview.

Compensation

Competitive hourly rate plus benefits. You will be paid for 40 hours per week. UVA Health will cover all course and certification fees in exchange for a one-year full-time employment commitment upon course completion.

Job Responsibilities

1. Prepare and assemble surgical trays and equipment following established tray listings for issue, storage, or sterilization.
2. Monitor sterilizer parameters to ensure proper function (ETO Steam Steris and Sterrad).
3. Decontaminate reusable equipment, instruments, and supplies manually and mechanically (Hand Washing, Washer/Sterilizer, Ultrasonic Cleaner, Scope Washer, Cart Washer).
4. Distribute sterile and non-sterile supplies and medical equipment as requested or via case cart requisitions.
5. Operate the departmental barcode system to record surgical trays and instruments received, processed, and distributed (SPM Tracking System).
6. Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

Education: High School Graduate or Equivalent.

Experience: No experience required.

Licensure: No licensure/certifications required.

Physical Demands

Prolonged sitting/standing, frequent bending/stooping/traveling, reaching (overhead, extensive, repetitive). Good communication, auditory, and visual skills; attention to detail; ability to lift/push/pull 25-50 lbs. Work environment includes fumes, chemicals, vibrations, heat, noise, blood/body fluids, and infectious agents.

Diversity Commitment

The University of Virginia and UVA Health System are committed to diversity and equal opportunity employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected status.