Sterile Services Lead

Job Summary

The Sterile Services Lead serves as a liaison between Sterile Processing and the Operating Room (OR), ensuring efficient and accurate handling of surgical instrumentation and supplies. Responsibilities include performing quality audits, monitoring instrument availability, resolving instrumentation issues, and supporting staff through training and process improvement. The Lead ensures adherence to sterilization standards and fosters a collaborative environment to achieve high‑quality patient care and staff satisfaction.

Essential Functions

• Provides day‑to‑day leadership and oversight of sterile processing staff, supporting workflow coordination and ensuring adherence to departmental standards.
• Monitors and ensures the management of supplies in all areas of Sterile Processing, maintaining an adequate, cost‑effective inventory.
• Oversees the collection, decontamination, processing, sterilization, storage, and distribution of non‑disposable instruments and equipment.
• Conducts quality audits to ensure the accuracy of instrument assembly and preparation for surgical cases.
• Serves as a point of contact for Sterile Processing Technicians, providing technical support, guidance, and training to junior staff.
• Coordinates and ensures proper assembly, sterilization, and delivery of case carts, resolving instrumentation issues promptly.
• Monitors sterilization processes, including steam and hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, ensuring compliance with quality assurance standards.
• Collaborates with Supervisors and Managers to implement process improvements, address staffing needs, and support employee training initiatives.
• Evaluates and documents staff performance, providing constructive feedback and conducting timely performance appraisals.
• Responds to complaints and resolves issues in consultation with leadership and risk management as necessary.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in sterile processing or surgical services (required).
• 1–3 years of leadership or supervisory experience (required).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of sterilization techniques, equipment, and quality assurance standards.
• Effective communication and leadership skills to support and guide staff.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and resolve issues promptly in a fast‑paced environment.
• Familiarity with inventory management and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in using sterilization equipment and tracking software.

Licenses and Certifications

• CRCST – Certified and Registered Central Service Technician (required) or
• CSPDT – Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (required) or
• CER – Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (required) or
• CIS – Certified Instrument Specialist (required) or
• CHL – Certified Healthcare Leader (preferred)