The Sterilization Technician is responsible for the decontamination, inspection, assembly, sterilization, and distribution of surgical instruments, equipment, and scopes used in ENT, podiatry, and general surgery. The technician ensures all medical instruments are properly cleaned, sterilized, and stored in accordance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and facility protocols to prevent healthcare-associated infections.

This is an onsite position located in Austin, Texas. To be considered for the role, candidates must live in the Greater Austin/Travis County area.

Essential Functions:

• 1. Decontamination & Cleaning:
• Perform manual and automated cleaning of ENT scopes, podiatry, and general surgery instruments.
• Utilize appropriate enzymatic solutions, detergents, and mechanical washers as per manufacturer guidelines.
• Operate ultrasonic cleaners, washer-disinfects, and automated endoscope reprocessors (AER) where applicable.
• 2. Inspection & Assembly:
• Visually inspect instruments for cleanliness, defects, and functionality.
• Assemble instrument trays per procedure-specific configurations.
• Ensure scopes and delicate instruments are handled and stored properly to prevent damage.
• 3. Sterilization & Disinfection:
• Perform sterilization using autoclaves, ethylene oxide (ETO), glutaraldehyde-based high-level disinfectants, ortho- phthalaldehyde (OPA), and other sterilant or peracetic acid-based disinfectants for sterilization methods.
• Adhere to appropriate sterilization parameters and documentation.
• Follow high-level disinfection (HLD) protocols for scopes and non-autoclavable instruments.
• 4. Quality supervision & Compliance:
• Maintain accurate sterilization records, including biological and chemical indicator testing.
• Adhere to infection control, Joint Commission, AAMI, AORN, and OSHA guidelines.
• Participate in department audits, competency evaluations, and continuing education.
• 5. Equipment Maintenance & Storage:
• Ensure instruments and scopes are stored in a sterile and organized manner.
• Conduct routine maintenance and troubleshooting of autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, and all other sterile processing department (SPD) equipment.
• Report damaged or malfunctioning instruments promptly.
• 6. Collaboration & Communication:
• Work closely with surgical teams, infection prevention, and supply chain staff.
• Communicate any instrument shortages, delays, or issues impacting surgical procedures.
• Provide education and training to clinical staff on proper instrument care when needed.
• Collaborates, communicates respectfully and professionally with all members of the care team in providing patient- centered care and regarding processes and clinical issues.
• Attending daily patient care (unit) huddles.
• Attends staff meetings and education offerings both in person and via teleconference/online as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of sterile processing department (SPD) equipment, instrument tracking systems, regulatory standards, and infection control protocols.
• Attention to detail, ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication and proficiency in documentation.
• Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs., and work in an environment with exposure to biohazards and sterilization chemicals.

Education:

Required:  High School Diploma or equivalent (higher degree accepted)

Experience:

Preferred: Minimum of one year of experience in sterile processing, preferably in ENT, podiatry, or general surgery settings.

Preferred: One year experience as Medical Assistant in Dental, ENT, Podiatry or General Surgery setting.

Licenses and Certifications:

Required: CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) or CBSPD (Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution) Within 1 Year of Hire

Preferred: CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) or CBSPD (Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution) Upon Hire