Sterile Processing Technician (SPS)

The VA New Jersey Healthcare System is seeking experienced Sterile Processing Technicians (SPS) to support the Sterile Processing Service (SPS) department. The selected candidates will be responsible for the decontamination, inspection, assembly, sterilization, storage, and distribution of reusable medical equipment (RME) and surgical instruments while maintaining strict infection prevention and quality assurance standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform decontamination, cleaning, inspection, assembly, packaging, sterilization, storage, and distribution of reusable medical equipment and surgical instruments.
• Operate sterilization and High-Level Disinfection (HLD) equipment, including:
  • Steam Sterilizers
  • Sterrad
  • V-PRO
  • Medivators
  • Trophon
  • Cidex OPA
• Perform biological monitoring, chemical indicator testing, Bowie-Dick testing, and maintain accurate quality assurance documentation.
• Inspect surgical instruments for cleanliness, functionality, and damage; identify and replace defective instruments.
• Follow manufacturer Instructions for Use (IFUs) for processing reusable medical devices, including flexible endoscopes.
• Support multiple surgical specialties including:
  • General Surgery
  • Orthopedics
  • Gynecology
  • ENT
  • Urology
  • Vascular
  • Dental
  • Robotics
  • Podiatry
• Maintain inventory and proper storage of sterile supplies.
• Ensure compliance with infection control standards, OSHA regulations, VA policies, and aseptic techniques.
• Assist with transportation of instruments and equipment between departments and VA sites as required.
• Perform physical duties including lifting instrument trays, standing for extended periods, pushing carts, and working in hot, humid, and noisy environments while wearing required PPE.

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must meet one of the following:

• Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST).
• Certified through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).
• Graduate of an accredited Sterile Processing/CRCST program with 2+ years of SPS experience.
• VA Level I SPS Certification with 2+ years of SPS experience (Level I certification must be completed within 90 days of hire if applicable).
• 5+ years of verifiable hands-on Sterile Processing experience (non-certified).

Required Skills & Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of sterilization, decontamination, and high-level disinfection processes.
• Knowledge of infection prevention, microbiology, aseptic techniques, and reusable medical equipment processing.
• Experience handling surgical instruments and flexible endoscopes.
• Knowledge of biological monitoring, chemical testing, Bowie-Dick testing, and quality assurance documentation.
• Ability to identify damaged instruments and ensure proper maintenance and replacement.
• Familiarity with PPE requirements, OSHA standards, and infection control protocols.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize workload and work efficiently in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Strong verbal and written English communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Lift and transport instrument trays and medical equipment.
• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Push carts and move equipment throughout the facility.
• Work safely in decontamination and sterilization environments requiring PPE.
• Adapt to changing priorities and work assignments.