Certified Sterile Processing Technician
Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative·Hackensack, New Jersey
Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative·Hackensack, New Jersey
The technician is responsible for the decontamination, cleaning, assembly, and sterilization of reusable medical and surgical instruments. They must ensure all equipment meets infection control standards and maintain accurate sterilization logs across two clinic locations.
About BVMI Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative (BVMI) is a NJ State licensed nonprofit ambulatory care center providing free primary and preventive medical care to low-income, working, uninsured residents of Bergen County. Guided by a "Culture of Caring" philosophy, our staff and dedicated cadre of volunteer practitioners are committed to serving patients of diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds with dignity and respect.
Why BVMI? Looking for meaningful, mission-driven work with a schedule that fits your life? BVMI offers a Monday–Friday schedule with no nights and no weekends, a supportive team, and the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Bergen County's uninsured residents.
Part-Time | 20 hours/week or less Monday–Friday only — no nights, no weekends $26–$28/hour Beautiful, modern, fully equipped facility Collaborative, mission-driven team environment
Position Overview The Certified Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for the decontamination, cleaning, inspection, assembly, sterilization, and storage of reusable medical and surgical instruments and equipment used in patient care. This role works collaboratively with the Director of Nursing, Charge Nurse, Certified Medical Assistants, and volunteer medical staff to ensure all instrumentation meets infection control standards and is available and ready for patient care. This role supports sterile processing operations across both our Hackensack and Garfield locations, with travel between sites as needed.
Decontamination & Sterilization Receive, sort, and decontaminate soiled instruments and equipment following manufacturer instructions for use (IFUs) and established infection control protocols. Clean, rinse, and disinfect instruments using appropriate detergents, ultrasonic cleaners, and manual techniques prior to sterilization. Inspect instruments for damage, cleanliness, and proper function; assemble instrument sets and trays according to count sheets and department standards. Operate and monitor autoclaves and other sterilization equipment; follow correct wrapping, loading, and cycle selection procedures for each instrument type. Perform and document biological, chemical, and mechanical indicator testing for each sterilization cycle; report and escalate any failed loads immediately. Inventory & Equipment Management Store sterile instruments and supplies appropriately to maintain sterility; distribute processed instruments and trays to clinical areas as needed. Track instrument and supply inventory; identify and report shortages, damaged items, or equipment needing repair or replacement. Perform routine cleaning and preventive maintenance checks on sterilization and decontamination equipment; maintain logs of maintenance and repairs. Compliance & Documentation Adhere to OSHA, CDC, and other applicable infection control and safety standards, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Maintain accurate sterilization logs, load records, and quality assurance documentation in accordance with clinic policy. Communicate with the Director of Nursing and clinical staff regarding instrument availability, turnaround needs, and any processing concerns.
CRCST or CSPDT certification required (or willingness to obtain within an agreed timeframe) Prior experience in sterile processing, central supply, or a related clinical support role preferred Working knowledge of infection control principles, sterilization methods, and manufacturer instructions for use (IFUs) Comfort operating autoclaves and sterile processing equipment; basic computer skills for inventory and documentation Strong attention to detail and ability to work carefully and consistently in a fast-paced environment Punctual, dependable, and capable of multitasking
Candidates must hold or be willing to obtain CRCST or CSPDT certification and have a working knowledge of infection control principles. Prior experience in sterile processing or central supply is preferred.
Market context
Support-services roles in New Jersey are often tied to steady staffing needs in hospitals and other care settings, especially for candidates who can work reliably in fast-paced environments. These positions can be competitive because employers look for a high school diploma or GED, BLS AHA certification, strong computer skills, and the ability to pass the HMH Monitor Tech exam within 90 days. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your certification status and prepare for the exam expectation before applying.
