“Sterile processing involves more than just cleaning instruments; it requires quick, critical thinking. For example, technicians must swiftly identify a viable alternative to ensure surgical success when the operating room requests an unavailable tray or instrument. Without effective sterile processing, safe surgeries cannot occur.”
Robert Beck CRCST, CHL
A sterile processing technician is responsible for decontamination, cleaning, processing, assembling, sterilizing, storing, and distributing medical devices and supplies. This is the first step in providing sterile materials that can be used safely on patients and helps to ensure clean equipment is not contaminated during use. In addition, sterile processing technicians must thoroughly understand instrumentation anatomy and disassembly and the principles of cold, sterile technique to correctly assemble trays for each surgeon’s preference. By carrying out these duties accurately and efficiently, sterile processing technicians help set the foundation for consistent patient care standards across medical facilities.
Hospitals are the largest employers of sterile processing technicians. Opportunities to work in physician offices, outpatient care centers, ambulatory surgical centers, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities have been growing. The surge in demand is partially due to reducing costs by providing lower-cost outpatient care options. Thus, sterile processing technicians can expect job security and growth opportunities.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2024) shows medical equipment repairers, a closely-related occupation to sterile processing technicians, will be in high demand in the coming decade. Job growth in this field is estimated at 13 percent, much faster than the national average (3 percent) from 2022 to 2032. As a result, an estimated 8,800 new positions will be needed to fulfill demand.
Read on for a detailed guide on becoming a central sterile processing technician, including degrees and training programs, career growth, salary, and career alternatives.
Meet the Expert: Robert Beck CRCST, CHL
Robert Beck is the manager of the sterile processing department at Temple Health Chestnut Hill, leveraging his bachelor of arts in organizational leadership from Thomas Jefferson University to effectively lead. His proficiency is acknowledged through two significant certifications from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA): Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) and Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL), underscoring his expertise and dedication to the safety and efficiency of medical sterilization.
Beyond his professional realm, Beck plays an integral role in his community, juggling the responsibilities of fatherhood for his two children with his enthusiasm for sports, notably as the coach of a youth flag football team that clinched the championship in 2024.
HealthcareDegree.com: What is something people don’t know about being a sterile processing or central service technician?
Beck: Sterile processing involves more than just cleaning instruments; it requires quick, critical thinking. For example, technicians must swiftly identify a viable alternative to ensure surgical success when the operating room requests an unavailable tray or instrument. Without effective sterile processing, safe surgeries cannot occur.
Management within sterile processing departments (SPDs) can sometimes lead to conflicts of interest, as SPD managers typically report to the operating room (OR) leadership. Meeting the needs of surgeons and patients necessitates careful management of relationships and trust. Despite not being directly involved in clinical actions, the sterile processing team plays a crucial lifesaving role, requiring unity for surgical operations to proceed smoothly.
It’s also worth noting that sterile processing is often a thankless job. Reflecting on my career, acknowledgments of my work have been rarer than reminders of the adage, “It’s not the 99 out of 100 trays you do right; it’s the one out of 100 you get wrong,” highlighting the profession’s high standards and underappreciated importance.
HealthcareDegree.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to a prospective sterile processing or central service technician?
Beck: One key piece of advice I would offer to anyone considering a career as a sterile processing or central service technician is to research and reflect on this career path thoroughly. It’s crucial to ask yourself some fundamental questions. Is this profession genuinely aligned with your interests and goals? Do you possess a deep-seated passion for the work that goes into ensuring medical instruments and environments are sterilized and safe for patient care? Can you maintain a sharp focus and demonstrate patience through the meticulous and often repetitive tasks required in this role?
Additionally, having a “short memory” can be an asset in this field. This doesn’t mean forgetting the critical aspects of your training or your job details. Instead, it refers to the ability to not dwell on mistakes or setbacks but to learn from them quickly and move forward. The nature of sterile processing work demands perfection and constant attention to detail, given its direct impact on patient safety and healthcare outcomes. Errors must be acknowledged, analyzed, and corrected without hindering overall performance or morale.
Sterile Processing Technician Specialization & Degree Types
A wide range of program types are available for those interested in training to become a central sterile processing technician.
Diploma and certificate programs offer a quick entry into the field and provide participants with the necessary skill set to practice sterile processing in a professional environment.
However, an associate’s degree program allows for building upon the foundation through further coursework and discussing sterile processing techniques from an advanced perspective.
Whatever route is eventually taken, sterile processing technicians with training are actively sought after to ensure optimal patient safety in clean environments.
Admission Requirements for Sterile Processing Technician Programs
Applying to sterile processing technician training programs involves meeting some basic requirements:
- CPR certification
- Criminal background check
- Drug screening
- High school diploma or GED
- Proof of high school diploma or high school equivalency
- Proof of medical health insurance
- Proof of up-to-date immunizations, such as MMR; Varicella; T/dap; Hep B series; Influenza/Flu; and TB test
- Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based test (TOEFL iBT) or International English Language Testing System
Central Sterile Processing Technician Accreditation
Accreditation is proof of educational quality. Aspiring students should be familiar with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), which recognizes these leading regional accreditation agencies. These include:
- Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Each agency evaluates schools based on rigorous standards and criteria, so it is vital to research each option carefully to ensure a sterile processing program meets the highest educational and professional standards.
Students searching for online and hybrid programs should inquire about a program’s NC-SARA status. The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) is an organization that works to ensure educational quality and improve student access to virtual education across the United States. NC-SARA status enables students to attend postsecondary distance education courses offered by NC-SARA member schools without being subjected to institutional authorization in the state of residence.
On-Campus Central Sterile Processing Technician Programs
Miami-Dade College offers a sterile processing technology certificate program for students wishing to become sterile processing technicians. This 21-credit program provides essential skills for delivering clean products and services in the healthcare industry, helping protect patients from infection risk.
The curriculum emphasizes efficient sterile techniques and safe practices that prepare students to be part of the medical team by ensuring that equipment is functioning correctly and clean when needed. As an additional convenience, classes are offered both in the evening and on weekends, allowing students to choose a suitable study time frame according to their responsibilities.
- Location: Miami, FL
- Duration: One year
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Naugatuck Valley Community College
Naugatuck Valley Community College is proud to offer a sterile processing technician program as part of its non-credit courses and certificate offerings. This program consists of two courses: central sterile processing technician principles (83 hours) and medical terminology (24 hours). Textbooks and materials are included in the tuition.
Upon completing the program, students will be eligible to sit for a Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution certification exam, which is required of all sterile processing technicians in Connecticut. With Naugatuck Valley Community College’s sterile processing tech program, prospective students can prepare to enter the industry with the knowledge and confidence needed for success.
- Location: Waterbury, CT
- Duration: One to two semesters
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science
The Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science offers an internship program that gives three to five students a chance to gain professional experience as sterile processing technicians. This program is specifically intended for students enrolled in sterile processing technician programs at one of their affiliated schools, including GateWay Community College, East Valley Institute of Technology, and Pima Medical Institute.
During their hands-on experience, interns will practice decontamination, cleaning, processing, assembling, and sterilizing medical devices and supplies. Upon completion of the program, followed by 400 hours of practical experience, graduates are eligible to take the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association examination to earn Certified Registered Central Service Technician credentials.
- Location: Phoenix, AZ
- Duration: Six months
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Bergen Community College in New Jersey offers a sterile processing technician apprentice program for those interested in pursuing a career in sterile processing. With this program, learners can learn to decontaminate, sterilize, prepare, assemble, and dispense surgical instruments and be eligible for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) examination.
Hands-on work experience is required at local medical and surgical centers to further hone sterile processing skills and knowledge. This program provides a practical pathway for those looking to become sterile processing technicians at healthcare facilities – all while learning under the supervision of experienced professionals.
- Location: Multiple campuses in New Jersey
- Duration: One semester
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
St. Louis Community College offers a sterile processing tech program to provide the ideal foundation for individuals interested in Central Sterile Processing. Through this 24-week-long program, students will receive classroom instruction (100 hours) and on-the-job training (400 hours) completed at BJC HealthCare Hospitals.
The comprehensive program will arm students with job knowledge and skills and help them understand fundamental sterile processing concerns. Students who complete the training also have an opportunity to take national certification exams and commit to one year of full employment with BJC HealthCare upon completion.
- Location: Forest Park, MO
- Duration: 24 weeks
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online or Hybrid Sterile Processing Technician Programs
Durham Tech (Hybrid)
Durham Tech’s sterile processing tech program is just one course, yet it offers a comprehensive introduction to the field and can lead to valuable certifications. This hybrid program combines online learning one night per week with a clinical offsite course during the day on an alternate day of the week. In addition, those who complete sterile processing tech training can take advantage of two associate degree programs in anesthesia and surgical technology.
Various conditions must be met before applying for the sterile processing tech program, including a high school diploma or equivalency, updated immunizations, criminal background check, and CPR certification.
- Location: Durham, NC
- Duration: 12 months
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Purdue University (Online)
Purdue University offers an online sterile processing tech program that will allow participants to prepare for the HSPA Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam. This flexible self-study course covers the 8th Edition of the Central Service Technical Training curriculum and allows students up to one year to complete it.
Study materials contain various educational components like videos, quizzes, and training exercises that help learners build their knowledge base in preparation for the exam. Those who wish to enroll in this online training program will get a thorough understanding required to pass the HSPA CRCST test.
- Location: West Lafayette, IN
- Duration: One year
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Herzing University (Online)
Herzing University offers an online diploma in sterile processing, helping students achieve their goal of becoming sterile processing technicians. The 24-credit program is spread over 285 hours. Students gain essential knowledge and skills related to sterile processing, central services, surgical instrumentation, and surgical services. In addition, the program covers topics such as primary medical terminology, psychology, and microbiology.
Upon completing the diploma, graduates can seek a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification examination through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association. Furthermore, students can transfer the college credits they earn into a surgical technologist degree program, significantly shortening their journey toward advancement in their career field.
- Location: Milwaukee, WI
- Duration: Eight months
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Ashworth College (Online)
Ashworth College offers an online sterile processing technical program designed to provide the skills necessary to pursue a healthcare career. Their self-paced course includes Building Blocks of Sterile Processing and Sterile Processing Technology classes, which cover the essentials of sterile processing and aseptic techniques.
Upon completion, students will be well-prepared to take the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association’s Certified Registered Central Service Technician certification exam – included in tuition. This program is ideal for those hoping to explore a rewarding, marketable career in this growing field.
- Location: Norcross, GA
- Duration: Four months
- Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
Wake Technical Community College (Hybrid)
Wake Technical Community College offers a hybrid sterile processing tech program covering the preparation, storage and distribution of instruments and supplies, quality assurance, and inventory management. The course is an impressive blend of hybrid instruction with online and in-person classes that can be taken at night.
Lasting 112 hours, this program aims to give its graduates the necessary experience and confidence to understand the principles of sterilization and disinfection and the principles behind handling sterile instruments, supplies, and equipment.
- Location: Raleigh, NC
- Duration: Three months
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
How Long Does It Take to Become a Central Sterile Processing Technician?
After graduating high school, becoming a central sterile processing technician takes approximately one year. This time frame includes education, work experience, and certification exam prep.
How to Become a Central Sterile Processing Technician – Step-by-Step Guide
Becoming a central sterile processing technician is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get started.
Step 1: Graduate from High School or Earn a GED (Four Years)
Job seekers will need at least a high school diploma or a GED to become central sterile processing technicians.
Step 2: Complete a Training Program (Four to 24 months)
Several educational programs are available, such as certificate programs, diplomas, and associate’s degrees, for this position. Depending on the program, the length of study can vary from just a few months to two years or more.
Step 3: Complete On-the-Job Training (Timeline Varies)
Once a graduate has completed an educational program, they may be required to complete additional on-the-job training before being eligible to receive certification in sterile processing technology.
Step 4: Pass Certification Exam (Timeline Varies)
Many states require CSPTs to pass state and national examinations to work legally. Learn more about certification and licensure in the section below.
What Do Central Sterile Processing Technicians Do?
Sterile processing technicians are responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, sterilizing, wrapping, and stocking medical instruments, supplies, and equipment. They also ensure all equipment is in working order before being used. Additionally, they may be involved in quality control of materials, systems maintenance, and record-keeping processes.
Here’s a list of skills needed to be a successful central sterile processing technician:
- Ability to pay close attention to detail
- Basic computer skills
- Manual dexterity
- Physical stamina
Central Sterile Processing Technician Certification & Licensure
Two organizations offer central sterile processing technician certification:
- Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA)
- Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD)
HSPA Certification
Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) offers the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam as an initial certification for sterile processing professionals. The CRCST exam is designed for professionals in the healthcare industry who wish to acquire additional certifications related to infection control and sterilization techniques. This examination comprises various components, including decontamination procedures, device inspection, assembly and disassembly processes, and sterilization techniques that help CRCSTs perform their roles effectively.
To be considered eligible for the CRCST exam, candidates must have gained 400 hours of hands-on experience in the preceding five years. Candidates who are unable to present 400 hours of experience can still apply for a provisional certification after they pass the CRCST exam, as long as they can prove 400 hours within six months of passing the exam.
The CRCST exam is computer-based and must be completed in three hours. In addition, candidates must answer 150 multiple-choice questions.
CBSPD Certification
The Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) ensures that personnel in various settings have the competency to perform cleaning, disinfection, sterilization, and inventory management.
The CBSPD’s certifications demonstrate a core understanding of sterile processing regulations and standards. In addition, this process enables professionals to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the mandated job responsibilities through test-based performance evaluations allowing individuals to be fully qualified for the position they seek.
SPD Technician Certification Exam
To be eligible to take the SPD Technician Certification Exam, applicants must meet one of four training qualifications:
- Complete a 12-month full-time employment in a sterile processing distribution role, or
- Complete six months of full-time employment in allied healthcare and sterile processing distribution role, or
- Complete a sterile processing technician training course with a 70 percent or higher score, or
- Complete 12 months of healthcare product sales or service
The exam consists of 125 scored questions. Candidates have three hours to take the test and pass with a 70 percent or higher. The exam fee is $128, and the certification lasts five years.
CSIS Certification Exam
The CBSPD also offers a Surgical Instrument Specialist Certification (CSIS) Exam to those with 24 or more months of professional experience.
How Much Do Central Sterile Processing Technicians Make?
According to the BLS (May 2023), medical equipment preparers earn an average of $47,410 annually. However, salary varies significantly depending on geographic location, education, and individual experience.
The following is a list of the salary percentiles:
- 10th percentile: $34,020
- 25th percentile: $38,060
- 50th percentile (median): $45,280
- 75th percentile: $53,310
- 90th percentile: $63,980
Sterile Processing Technicians Career Alternatives
Central sterile processing technicians have many career alternatives outside of the medical field. These include various roles in industrial manufacturing, technical support services, and radio and television broadcasting. Additionally, CSPTs are well-suited to pursue careers in laboratory work, IT support services, or even robotics engineering.
Here are three career alternatives for central sterile processing technicians.
Become a Surgical Technologist
A surgical technologist, also known as a scrub, operating room assistant, or operating room technician, is an allied health professional who works closely with surgeons to facilitate invasive surgical procedures’ safe and effective conduct. They are responsible for preparing the patient and operating room before surgery, maintaining sterile conditions during the process, and helping the surgeon during the procedure by passing instruments and other sterile items.
- Typical Education: Certificate (one year); associate’s degree (two years)
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
Become a Medical Device Technician
A medical device technician repairs, maintains, and programs medical devices such as life-support systems, CAT scanners, and MRI machines. This type of technician requires specialized training in electrical safety, technical communication, understanding detailed diagrams, problem-solving, and patient care coordination.
Additionally, a medical device technician must receive extensive hands-on experience to understand how various medical equipment operates fully.
- Typical Education: Associate’s degree (two years)
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI)
Become a Biomedical Equipment Repairer
To become a biomedical equipment repairer, one must first obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. After that, there are several paths to becoming a medical equipment repairer, including an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in biomedical technology or engineering. Depending on the type of medical equipment they will be responsible for repairing, individuals may also require specialized training and certifications.
- Typical Education: Associate’s degree (two years); bachelor’s degree (four years)
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs)
Rachel Drummond, MEd
WriterRachel Drummond has written about integrating contemplative movement practices such as yoga into healthcare professions since 2019, promoting the idea that mental and physical well-being are critical components of effective patient care and self-care in the high-stress world of healthcare.
Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.