Sterilization Specialist

Mountain State Oral & Facial Surgery; Vinton (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Low-cost medical insurance

401(k) with company match

Generous PTO and holidays

Educational Assistance

Wellness program

Weekday daytime schedule with early‑21

Job summary

Mountain State Oral & Facial Surgery is seeking a detail-oriented Sterilization Specialist to ensure all surgical instruments and equipment are cleaned, sterilized, and ready for procedures. The role supports clinical staff by maintaining a safe, sterile environment and documenting compliance.

Responsibilities include operating autoclaves, preparing instruments, setting up trays, inspecting equipment, and maintaining logs for audits.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in sterilization, infection control, or healthcare setting preferred.
• Certificate in dental assisting, surgical assisting, or sterile processing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and operate autoclaves and sterilization systems at start of day.
• Clean, sterilize, and prep surgical instruments and trays per protocols.
• Set up trays for providers and ensure timely availability for procedures.
• Inspect instruments for cleanliness, functionality and safety.
• Maintain and log maintenance for autoclaves and sterilization equipment.
• Perform weekly spore testing and maintain documentation.

Skills

Sterilization techniques

Infection control

Communication

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Regulatory compliance

Inventory management

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Certificate in dental assisting/surgical assisting/sterile processing

CPR certification

Tools

Autoclaves

Sterilization equipment

Job description

Mountain State Oral & Facial Surgery is seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Sterilization Specialist to join our team. This role is responsible for ensuring all surgical instruments and equipment are properly cleaned, sterilized, maintained, and readily available in compliance with established safety and infection control standards. The ideal candidate is highly organized, meticulous, and committed to maintaining a safe and sterile environment to support clinical staff and deliver exceptional patient care.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive wages
• Pay based on experience
• Low-cost medical insurance
• Zero-premium dental and vision insurance
• Employer F.S.A./H.S.A. contributions
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous PTO, paid holidays, and personal time
• Seasonal bonuses and company/partner discounts
• Employer-paid basic life insurance
• Voluntary insurance benefits
• Educational Assistance
• Wellness program and employeeassistanceprogram
• Weekday, daytime-only schedule with early-out Fridays!

Join our growing team and be part of a practice that values both patient care and employee well-being.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all equipment is prepared and operational at the start of each day (autoclaves, O2/Nitrous systems, suction systems, etc.)
• Clean, sterilize, and prepare surgical instruments and trays following established protocols
• Set up surgical trays for providers and ensure timely availability for procedures
• Inspect instruments and equipment for cleanliness, functionality, and safety
• Maintain, clean, and log maintenance for autoclaves and sterilization equipment
• Perform weekly spore testing on autoclaves and maintain required documentation and reports
• Maintain O2/Nitrous tanks and related systems
• Clean suction traps and maintain suction systems
• Manage inventory of sterile supplies and ensure adequate stock levels
• Assist with unpacking dental supply orders and stocking operatories
• Maintain handpieces and other clinical equipment
• Assist with laundry and general clinic support tasks
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked sterilization (Central) area
• Document sterilization processes and maintain accurate logs for compliance and audits
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, CDC, and other infection control and safety regulations
• Collaborate with clinical staff to support efficient workflow
• Identify and report equipment or instrument issues promptly
• Maintain a professional, friendly work environment and strict confidentiality standards
• Attend scheduled meetings and trainings
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Clinical Manager

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of sterilization techniques and infection control standards
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
• High attention to detail and organizational ability
• Ability to follow strict protocols and regulatory guidelines
• Ability to function effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Professional demeanor and commitment to confidentiality
• Ability to manage inventory and maintain accurate records

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Prior experience in sterilization, infection control, or healthcare setting preferred
• Certificate in dental assisting, surgical assisting, or sterile processing preferred
• CPR certification preferred

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged standing and walking
• Frequent bending, twisting, and repetitive tasks
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Manual dexterity to handle delicate instruments and operate equipment
• Ability to assist with patient-related tasks as needed
• Ability to maintain grip and precision for extended periods
• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Flexible Benefits Plan (FSA, HSA)
• Tuition Assistance
• Continuing Education
• Annual Scrub Allowance
• Paid Time Off (Vacation & 6 Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Bereavement Leave
• Training & Development
• Free Food & Snacks
• Wellness Resources