Sterile Processing Educator

Are you a passionate Sterile Processing professional who thrives on teaching, leading, and driving positive change? We are seeking a dynamic Sterile Processing Educator to join our team and play a vital role in developing the next generation of Sterile Processing professionals. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated, forward-thinking leader eager to make an impact through education, process improvement, and collaboration across multiple clinical departments.

About the Role

In this role, you will lead the education, training, and competency programs for Sterile Processing staff, ensuring team members have the knowledge and skills needed to deliver exceptional service and support outstanding patient care. You will oversee onboarding and orientation for new employees, provide ongoing professional development opportunities, and help cultivate a culture of learning, accountability, and excellence. As a trusted resource and mentor, you will work closely with leadership and frontline staff to promote best practices and maintain the highest standards of quality and safety.

We are looking for a go-getter who isn't afraid to take initiative, lead projects, and identify opportunities for improvement. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who enjoys driving change, researching and implementing new products and equipment, and bringing innovative ideas to the department. Working collaboratively with physicians, surgical services, endoscopy suites, and other clinical partners, you will have a direct impact on operational success and positive patient outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Extensive knowledge in analyzing and interpreting manufacturer’s IFU for surgical instrumentation, endoscopes, and medical equipment.
• Operate semi-automatic to automatic sterilizing equipment; mechanical decontamination equipment and other related equipment, e.g., ultra-sonic washers, rinsers/dryers according to manufacturer’s IFU.
• Maintain cleanliness of sterilizers, washers, and other department equipment as scheduled.
• Learn and maintain knowledge on quality and performance testing on all sterilizers, washers, and HLD equipment through experience and ongoing education.
• Perform audits scheduled and meet SPD metric deadlines.
• Coordinate the departmental orientation of new hires.
• Plan, implement, and promote the education and training of staff members to ensure professional development.
• Evaluate, review, and report the staff’s ability to provide clean, sterile, and accurate instrument sets.
• Create and provide educational programs for the Sterile Processing staff, including but not limited to staff workshops, in-services, lesson plans, quizzes, videos, and online education.
• Assist in maintaining SPD staff C.E. credits and staff in renewing credentials.
• Maintain a list of staff certificates, renewal dates, and educational dates.
• Provide quality assurance programs and the support necessary for staff in the field of sterile processing.
• Ensure that the department meets all the regulations, standards, and guidelines consistent with AORN, AAMI, The Joint Commission, CMS, CDC, OSHA, and FDA requirements as well as the hospital’s policies and procedures.
• Complete required continuous training and education, including computer-related requirements.
• Maintain and update professional knowledge by actively participating in professional seminars and organizations.
• Develop education plans of correction and follow through to completion.
• Collaborate with clinical and surgical teams to ensure alignment of SPD education with OR expectations.
• Support readiness for internal and external audits through education and process review.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 2 years of working in a Sterile Processing Department/Role.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Hold an active Sterile Processing Certificate - CRCST or CBSPD (required).
• Additional Certificates in sterile processing (preferred).

Benefits

At United Health Services (UHS), we believe every connection—to patients, to purpose, to each other—makes a difference. We support our team through meaningful benefits, personal growth opportunities, and a collaborative culture.

• A Culture of Connection: Engagement Councils, peer recognition, team events like trivia, trunk-or-treat, volunteer days, staff choir, and seasonal celebrations.
• Comprehensive Benefits for Life & Family: Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting the first of the month after hire for employees working 24+ hours/week. Flexible plan options, discounted childcare through Bright Horizons, and voluntary benefits like pet insurance, legal services, and identity theft protection.
• Well-Being & Financial Security: PTO accrual from day one, 403(b) retirement plan with company match, flexible spending accounts, access to financial advisors, up to $400/year in wellness rewards, 24/7 EAP counseling, virtual mental health support, food pantry, PTO donation program, and professional attire through the Classy Closet.
• Growth That Moves with You: Access to 100,000+ online courses, leadership programs, tuition reimbursement, clinical ladders, and internal mobility. Continuous review of compensation for market competitiveness and internal equity.

Pay

$22.97 - $34.46 per hour, depending on experience.

Schedule

• Primary Work Shift: Day
• Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40

About Us

United Health Services (UHS) is a locally owned, not-for-profit healthcare system in New York’s Southern Tier, comprising four hospitals, long-term care and home care services, and physician practices in Broome and surrounding counties. UHS provides healthcare and medical services for two-thirds of the region’s population, produces $1.3 billion a year in total economic impact, and boasts a workforce of more than 6,300 employees and providers. Our work is guided by the Values of Compassion, Trust, Respect, Teamwork, and Innovation.