Sterilization Technician

Smilist Dental PA PLLC; Wayne (PA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Smilist Dental PA PLLC seeks a Sterilization Technician to sustain the highest cleanliness and infection control standards. You will sterilize instruments, operate autoclaves, and manage supply inventory to ensure readiness for procedures.

The role emphasizes strict adherence to OSHA/CDC infection control guidelines, documentation, and teamwork with clinical staff in a fast-paced dental office environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required or preferred training in dental sterilization.
• Completion of a dental sterilization training program is preferred.
• Familiarity with OSHA and CDC infection control standards and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Sterilize, disinfect, and sterilize dental instruments and equipment per guidelines.
• Operate and maintain autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners and related equipment.
• Monitor sterilization cycles and document records according to standards.
• Maintain instrument and supply inventory for sterile processing areas.
• Prepare trays with sterile instruments for procedures as required.
• Follow infection control protocols to prevent cross-contamination and wear PPE as needed.
• Keep sterilization areas clean and organized; assist with maintaining compliance records.

Skills

Sterilization procedures

Infection control

OSHA/CDC knowledge

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Dental sterilization training program

Tools

Autoclaves

Ultrasonic cleaners

Sterilization equipment

Job description

• Pay or shift range: $18 USD to $20 USD
  The estimated range is the budgeted amount for this position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications and other job-related reasons.

Description

Job Summary:

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.

Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of a dental sterilization training program is preferred.
• Familiarity with OSHA and CDC infection control standards and procedures.
• Basic knowledge of dental instruments and sterilization equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and assist with lifting and positioning patients as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a dental or healthcare setting is an advantage.
• Certification in dental sterilization or infection control (e.g., Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician) is a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.