SPD

About the role

The SPD Technician performs services requiring technical and manual skills under the direction of a licensed Registered Nurse. Specific areas of responsibility include cleaning of surgical instruments, setting up of instrument trays, wrapping and sterilizing equipment. The role transports surgical trays to and from the basement instrument sterilizer to the first floor surgery department and reports directly to the Central Service & Sterile Processing Supervisor. This is a non‑exempt position.

Responsibilities

• Knowing surgical instruments, tray set‑up and the sterilization process
• Washing of surgical instruments
• Setting up and wrapping surgical instruments and trays
• Coordinating with the charge nurse and team members regarding scheduled surgeries and equipment deliveries
• Informing the charge nurse of broken instruments and repair items to be sent out for repair
• Assisting with the pick‑up of equipment in the operating rooms
• Stocking supplies
• Collaborating with the health team through common purpose, coordination, effective communication and blending of unique and complimentary professional skills
• Communicating to all health team members through written and/or verbal communication
• Managing time to complete work within shift hours and coordinating multiple needs of team members and physicians
• Acting as a patient/client advocate by notifying the RN of any equipment concerns or issues and demonstrating accountability for the patient’s right to considerate, private and respectful healthcare

Requirements

• Lifting & carrying: frequently lift, support, push, pull, and move trays of instruments, carts, and equipment weighing up to 25 lb.
• Posture & movement: constantly standing and walking; frequently stoop, crouch, twist; occasionally kneel, squat, sit.
• Manual dexterity & fine motor skills: precise hand‑eye coordination to sort, clean, assemble, wrap, and inspect instruments.
• Sensory requirements: use of speech, vision, hearing, smell, and touch (e.g., detecting moisture or temperature differences) is critical.
• Environmental hazards & conditions: exposure to high‑pressure steam, chemicals, bio‑waste, temperature variations, noise, odors, and potential back strain; work under time pressure to meet departmental demands.

Qualifications

• Required: Basic Cardiac Life Support (BLS) Certification – must be from the American Heart Association
• Required: California Hospital Fire Card – obtain within 60 days of hire
• Recommended: CSPDT – Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CBSPD) – entry‑level certification for SPD staff, requiring either SPD experience (6‑12 months) or completion of a training program
• Recommended: CRCST – Certified Registered Central Service Technician (IAHCSMM/HSPA) – nationally recognized credential commonly required by California employers
• Optional advanced credentials: CIS – Certified Instrument Specialist (HSPA); CER – Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (HSPA)