Sterile Processing Technician (CRCST)
Location: Bethesda, MD
Job Type: Federal
Company: Decypher
Category: Medical Services
Job Description Apply Now
Are you passionate about supporting healthcare operations and ensuring the safety of patients and clinicians? As a Sterile Processing Technician (CRCST), you will play a pivotal role in maintaining sterile environments and ensuring that surgical instruments and medical devices are ready for use in critical healthcare settings. This is a full-time opportunity to join Decypher, an organization dedicated to advancing healthcare quality for service members, veterans, and their families. If you have a strong foundation in sterile processing and are ready to bring your expertise to a mission-driven team, we encourage you to apply today by clicking the job application button.
Decypher has built a reputation for valuing the skills and dedication of healthcare professionals since 2008. Our collaboration with the Defense Health Agency enables us to deliver high-quality professional services, technology, and management solutions. Our mission centers on supporting the health and readiness of America's service members, veterans, and their families nationwide. As a Sterile Processing Technician (CRCST), you will be at the forefront of initiatives that directly impact patient care by supporting safe and efficient clinical operations.
In this role, you will be responsible for receiving, inspecting, decontaminating, assembling, labeling, packaging, sterilizing, and storing reusable medical devices and surgical instruments. You will utilize industry-standard sterilization processes and comply strictly with manufacturers' instructions for use (IFU). Your keen attention to detail, ability to follow protocols, and sound judgment will ensure that all supplies meet the highest standards of safety and functionality. You will monitor sterilization effectiveness, verify instrument integrity and functionality, and prepare specialty trays and case carts for various clinical departments. Additionally, you will respond promptly to routine, special, and emergency supply requests, supporting multiple clinical areas integral to patient care.
As an experienced Sterile Processing Technician (CRCST), you are expected to demonstrate proficiency in microbiology principles as they apply to medical supply operations, including understanding the resistance of microorganisms to heat, chemicals, and ionizing radiation. You will apply your knowledge of aseptic principles and techniques, including the use of various detergents, cleaning methods, sterilizing mediums, and the operation of sterilizers. Understanding packaging, storage, and shelf-life characteristics is key to maintaining a high standard of sterile processing.
This position requires the ability to operate and maintain a variety of cleaning and sterilization equipment, such as ultrasonic washers, automated washer-disinfectors, and various types of sterilizers. You will be responsible for assembling and disassembling surgical instruments, determining the appropriate method of decontamination and sterilization, and ensuring all gross contaminants are thoroughly removed. You will also label and identify devices accurately for different hospital departments and assemble specialty trays in compliance with inventory sheets and clinical requirements.
In addition, you will select and utilize the correct wrapping or packaging materials and sterilization processes, including Hydrogen Peroxide (STERRAD and V-Pro), Ethylene Oxide (EO), and Steam sterilization. Monitoring sterilizer performance through graphs, computer panels, Bowie Dick, and spore challenge (biological) tests is an essential part of your responsibilities. You will ensure the integrity of sterilization by checking indicators, package dryness, and proper storage of sterile items. Your attention to detail supports the seamless operation of clinical areas, including the Main Operating Room, Labor and Delivery, wards, and clinics.
Working as a Sterile Processing Technician (CRCST) with Decypher, you will be part of a supportive team that values your skills and commitment to excellence. You will contribute to a work environment that is inclusive, fosters professional growth, and is guided by a strong mission to deliver quality care to those who serve our country.
Decypher is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce (M/F/D/V).
Sterile Processing Technician (CRCST) - Summary- Responsible for the full cycle of sterile processing for reusable medical devices and surgical instruments
- Ensures compliance with industry standards and manufacturer instructions
- Supports clinical operations by providing sterile equipment for various departments
- Works collaboratively with healthcare teams to fulfill routine and emergency supply needs
- Receive, inspect, disassemble, and decontaminate reusable medical devices and instruments
- Determine appropriate cleaning and sterilization methods
- Operate cleaning and sterilization equipment (ultrasonic washers, automated washer-disinfectors, sterilizers)
- Label and assemble specialty trays for the Main Operating Room, Labor and Delivery, wards, and clinics
- Select correct packaging materials and sterilization processes
- Monitor sterilization effectiveness using standard tests and indicators
- Store and maintain integrity of sterile items
- Respond to special and emergency requests for sterile supplies
- Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive benefits provided for full-time employees
- Opportunity to work with a mission-driven organization supporting veterans, service members, and their families
- Completion of a central sterile supply training course
- Current Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification
- Current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification
- At least two years of experience as a Sterile Processing Technician within the last four years
- Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English for effective communication
- U.S. Citizenship required
- Thorough knowledge of microbiology and aseptic techniques related to sterile processing
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
- Ability to follow protocols and adapt to emergency situations
- Comfortable operating specialized medical equipment
- Team-oriented with excellent communication skills
- Driven to support clinical teams in delivering exceptional patient care
- Enjoy working in a dynamic, mission-focused environment with opportunities for professional growth
- Support a diverse and inclusive workforce
- Be part of a team making a difference for veterans, service members, and their families nationwide
- Apply now by clicking the job application button to join Decypher as a Sterile Processing Technician (CRCST) and advance your career in healthcare support