Sterile Processing Technician (SPT)
Location: Bethesda, MD
Job Type: Federal
Company: Decypher
Category: Medical Services
Job Description Apply Now
Decypher is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) to support our mission of delivering quality healthcare services to service members, veterans, and their families. As a vital member of the healthcare team, the Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and readiness of medical and surgical instruments, directly impacting patient outcomes and the efficiency of clinical operations. Decypher, a recognized leader in providing healthcare industry professionals with meaningful career paths since 2008, partners with the Defense Health Agency to deliver essential professional services, technology, and management solutions. Our commitment centers on supporting those who have served our country by ensuring the highest standards of care and operational excellence.
The Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) is responsible for receiving, inspecting, decontaminating, sterilizing, assembling, labeling, packaging, and storing reusable medical devices and surgical instruments. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of microbiology, aseptic techniques, and sterilization processes to maintain compliance with healthcare regulations and manufacturer instructions for use (IFU). The SPT monitors the effectiveness of sterilization, verifies instrument functionality, prepares specialty trays and case carts, and exercises sound judgment to fulfill routine, special, and emergency supply requests across various clinical areas. The technician must be able to identify and resolve minor equipment issues and make quick, informed decisions during emergency situations to ensure urgent supplies are processed efficiently and safely.
Working as a Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) offers the opportunity to be part of an inclusive, mission-driven organization, where your expertise is respected, and your contributions are essential to the readiness and health of others. The role is suitable for professionals seeking to make a tangible impact in healthcare, utilizing specialized knowledge and skills in a dynamic and collaborative environment. U.S. Citizenship is required for this position, and commitment to quality, safety, and teamwork are essential attributes for success in this role.
Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) - Summary- Responsible for decontaminating, sterilizing, and assembling reusable medical and surgical instruments
- Operates within healthcare settings to support clinical teams and patient safety
- Ensures compliance with established protocols, manufacturer instructions, and infection control standards
- Directly supports readiness and operational effectiveness of healthcare providers
- Receive, disassemble, and inspect reusable medical devices and surgical instrumentation for damage and contamination
- Determine correct decontamination and sterilization methods for each device, including wiping, soaking, rinsing, scrubbing, and using ultrasonic and washer disinfecting equipment
- Apply principles of microbiology and aseptic techniques to all cleaning and sterilization activities
- Assemble, package, and label instruments and specialty trays for various hospital departments using inventory sheets
- Select appropriate wrapping or packaging materials and sterilization processes, including Hydrogen Peroxide (STERRAD and V-Pro), Ethylene Oxide (EO), and Steam sterilization, based on IFU
- Monitor sterilizer operations using graphs, computer panels, Bowie Dick tests, and spore challenge tests to ensure effectiveness
- Verify integrity and functionality of sterilized items, checking indicators and packaging for compliance
- Store sterile items in designated areas, maintaining organization and preventing contamination
- Respond to special and emergency requests for supplies, making informed decisions to ensure urgent needs are met
- Maintain accurate records, complete case cart requisition forms, and support inventory management
- Competitive hourly compensation
- Comprehensive health and welfare benefits package
- Opportunities for career growth and professional development within an established healthcare organization
- Supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity
- Completion of a central sterile supply training course
- Current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification
- Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) credential required
- Minimum of two years continuous experience as a Sterile Processing Technician within the past four years
- Demonstrated proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English to communicate effectively with staff
- U.S. Citizenship required
- Highly detail-oriented and methodical in approach to work
- Strong knowledge of sterilization processes, aseptic techniques, and infection control standards
- Able to function effectively in fast-paced and emergency situations
- Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
- Committed to maintaining patient safety and supporting clinical operations
- Decypher is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce (M/F/D/V)
- This position offers the chance to work in a rewarding setting where your expertise supports the health and readiness of service members, veterans, and their families
- Applicants are encouraged to apply by clicking the job application button and take the next step in advancing their healthcare career