Sr. Sterile Processing Tech

Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital is seeking a Sr. Sterile Processing Tech to support safe, high-quality surgical care. This role is responsible for decontaminating, inspecting, assembling, sterilizing, and distributing surgical instruments and trays according to AAMI, AORN, and hospital standards. The tech monitors sterilization equipment, maintains accurate records, and ensures inventory readiness for procedures. Working in a faith-based, patient-centered environment, the Sr.

Tech collaborates with OR and clinical teams, mentors junior staff, supports continuous quality improvement, and upholds strict infection prevention and safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Decontaminate, inspect, assemble, and package surgical instruments and trays
• Operate and monitor sterilizers, washers, and related equipment per protocols
• Maintain accurate sterilization records, logs, and load documentation
• Stage, store, and distribute instruments and supplies for surgical procedures
• Perform quality checks on instruments and report or repair damaged items
• Maintain inventory levels and rotate stock to ensure readiness
• Follow infection prevention, safety, and regulatory standards (e.g., AAMI, AORN)
• Collaborate with OR and clinical staff to meet case needs and resolve issues
• Precept and mentor junior sterile processing staff as assigned
• Participate in performance improvement and continuing education activities

Required Skills

• Sterile processing and decontamination techniques
• Operation of autoclaves and low-temp sterilization systems
• Instrument identification and assembly
• Infection prevention and control practices
• Use of tracking and documentation systems
• Inventory and supply management
• Reading and interpreting surgical preference cards
• Quality assurance and compliance with AAMI/AORN standards
• Team communication with OR and clinical staff
• Troubleshooting sterilization equipment issues