Sterilization Tech

The Smilist; Jackson (NJ); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

The Smilist in Jackson, NJ is seeking a Sterilization Technician to maintain cleanliness and infection control across the dental office. You will ensure instruments and equipment are properly sterilized, organized, and ready for use, supporting a safe patient environment.

Responsibilities include operating autoclaves and ultrasonic cleaners, maintaining records, stocking sterile supplies, and assisting the clinical team between patients.

Qualifications

• Prior dental setting work experience preferred, but not required.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently in a fast paced environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Sterilize and disinfect dental instruments per OSHA/CDC guidelines.
• Operate autoclaves and ultrasonic cleaners; calibrate equipment.
• Maintain sterile instrument inventories and organize supply rooms.
• Document sterilization cycles and maintain compliance records.
• Assist dental team by preparing operatories between patients.

Skills

Attention to detail

Independent worker

Time management

Job description

The Sterilization Technician is responsible for maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and infection control in the dental office. This role is crucial in supporting the clinical team by ensuring all instruments and equipment are properly sterilized, organized, and ready for use. The Sterilization Technician plays a vital role in patient safety and the smooth operation of the practice by following strict protocols for decontamination, sterilization, and infection prevention.

Key Responsibilities

• Sterilization and Disinfection:
  • Properly clean, disinfect, and sterilize dental instruments and equipment in compliance with OSHA, CDC, and other relevant infection control guidelines
  • Operate and maintain autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, and other sterilization equipment, ensuring they are functioning correctly and regularly calibrated
  • Monitor and document sterilization cycles and maintain records as required by practice standards and regulations
• Instrument and Supply Management:
  • Ensure all treatment rooms are stocked with the necessary sterile instruments and supplies, organized and easily accessible for dental staff
  • Perform daily and weekly inventory of sterilization supplies, including disinfectants, gloves, and sterilization pouches, and report any needs to the office manager
  • Prepare and organize trays with sterile instruments for each procedure based on dental staff requirements
• Infection Control Protocols:
  • Follow all infection control procedures to prevent cross-contamination, including the handling and disposal of biohazard materials
  • Adhere to personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols, including wearing gloves, masks, and gowns when necessary
  • Ensure all areas in the sterilization room are kept clean, sanitized, and free of debris or clutter
• Maintenance and Compliance:
  • Conduct regular maintenance checks on sterilization equipment, ensuring timely repairs or replacements as needed
  • Assist in maintaining OSHA and CDC compliance records for sterilization procedures and equipment
  • Stay updated on best practices and new infection control standards in dental sterilization
• Assisting Support:
  • Assist dental assistants or hygienists as needed by preparing and cleaning operatories between patients
  • Occasionally assist in non-clinical tasks, such as organizing and restocking storage rooms, under the direction of the office manager

Job Requirements:

• Prior dental setting work experience preferred, but not required
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work independently in a fast paced environment
• Excellent organizational and time management skills

What We Offer:

• Competitive compensation
• Benefits package for FT employees - health, dental, vision insurance, and more!
• Opportunity for professional growth and continuing education
• A chance to make a real impact on the health and well-being of our patients

Position Details:

• Schedule: Full Time - Monday through Friday and rotating Saturdays
• Salary Range: $18.00-$20.00/hour
• Location: Jackson, NJ

We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.