SPD

SPD TECH

Surgery Department

Position Summary

The SPD Technician performs services requiring technical and manual skills, under the direction of a licensed Registered Nurse. Specific areas of responsibility include cleaning of surgical instruments, setting up of instrument trays, wrapping and sterilizing equipment. This position will transport surgical trays to and from the basement instrument sterilizer to the first floor surgery department. The role reports directly to the Central Service & Sterile Processing Supervisor. This is a NON-EXEMPT positon.

Major Responsibilities

The SPD Technician is responsible for:

Knowing surgical instruments, tray set-up and the sterilization process 

Washing of surgical instruments

Setting up and wrapping surgical instruments and trays 

Coordinating with the charge nurse and team members regarding scheduled surgeries and equipment deliveries

Informing the charge nurse of broken instruments and repair items to be sent out for repair

Assisting with the pick-up of equipment in the operating rooms

Stocking supplies

Collaboration

The SPD Technician must have a common purpose, coordination, effective communication and blending of unique and complimentary professional skills. 

It is the Equipment Technician’s responsibility to participate in the collaborative process. The Equipment Technician receives assigned duties from an RN. 

The Equipment Technician practice recognizes the unique relationship whereby he/she must work cooperatively and in partnership without having “assignment” authority.

Communication

The SPD Technician’s primary responsibility is to communicate to all health team members through written and/or verbal communication.

Time Management

Time Management for an SPD Technician includes completion of work within the shift hours and the ability to coordinate multiple needs of team members and physicians.

Advocacy

The SPD Technician acts as the patient client advocate by notifying the RN of any concerns or issues regarding equipment. The SPD Technician demonstrates accountability for the patient’s right to considerate, private and respectful healthcare.

Qualifications

Required:

Basic Cardiac Life Support (BLS) – obtain within 30 days of hire

Current California Fire Card

Recommended:

CSPDT – Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CBSPD) 

Entry-level certification for SPD staff, requiring either SPD experience (6–12 months) or completion of a training program. 

CRCST – Certified Registered Central Service Technician (IAHCSMM/HSPA) 

Nationally recognized credential, commonly required by California employers. 

Optional advanced credentials: 

CIS – Certified Instrument Specialist (HSPA)

CER – Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (HSPA).

Physical Demand Requirements

Lifting & Carrying:

Frequently lift, support, push, pull, and move trays of instruments, carts, and equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. 

Posture & Movement:

Must be constantly standing and walking.

Frequently stoop, crouch, twist; occasionally kneel, squat, sit. 

Manual Dexterity & Fine Motor Skills:

Requires precise hand-eye coordination to sort, clean, assemble, wrap, and inspect instruments. 

Sensory Requirements:

Use of speech, vision, hearing, smell, and touch (e.g., detecting moisture or temperature differences) is critical. 

Environmental Hazards & Conditions:

Exposure to high-pressure steam, chemicals, bio-waste, temperature variations, noise, odors, and potential back strain. 

Work under time pressure to meet departmental demands.