Lead Sterile Processing Technician

Under the direction of the Manager of Sterile Processing, the Lead Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for oversight of the staff and activities in the department on the assigned shift or location.  Relevant activities include decontamination, sterilization, assembly, and storage of medical and surgical materials and equipment, and related supplies, utilized in the care and treatment of patients at Ellis Medicine.oversee the daily demands of unit operations while developing an environment that fosters nursing excellence and promotes an engaged nursing staff oversee the daily demands of unit operations while developing an environment that fosters nursing excellence and promotes an engaged nursing staff

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT(S):

• High school diploma or equivalent required.             
• 5 years of sterile processing experience. 

• Certification in sterile processing (Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The position is located indoors under normal working conditions. Must be able to push/pull, lift/move 25 lb., ability to perform moderately difficult manual manipulations such as using a keyboard, writing and filing for extended periods of time, must be able to perform tasks which require hand-eye coordination, such as data entry, typing and using photo copiers.

Mobility requirements may include the ability to stand at a computer terminal or workstation for a prolonged period of time in addition to being able to squat and walk for a reasonable length of time and distance. Sensory requirements include the ability to articulate and comprehend the spoken English language in addition to being able to read the English language.

 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION:

• The Lead Sterile Processing Technician will assist manager with the daily operations of the department.

• The Lead Sterile Processing Technician will competently perform the tasks of the Sterile Processing Technician, level 3.
  • Cleans and decontaminates instruments and equipment received from departments within Ellis Medicine and contracted physician’s offices.
    • Consistently utilizes appropriate personal protective equipment.
    • Chooses and utilizes the appropriate method, or combination of methods of cleaning contaminated instruments and equipment following all manufacturers’ recommendations.
    • Maintains knowledge and expertise in the operation of decontamination and sterilization equipment.
    • Inspects and maintains instruments and equipment for proper functioning before returning to service.  Sends malfunctioning equipment for repair and documents appropriately.
  • Assembles and labels instrument sets completely and accurately, utilizing established instrument lists.
    • Correctly assembles rigid sterilization containers or wraps crates in acceptable wrapping material.
    • Instruments are labeled to identify the contents, sterilization cycle and date.
    • Utilizes appropriate internal and external sterilization indicators.
    • Updates instrument lists as indicated.
  • The manufacturers’ instructions are followed when choosing the method of sterilization.
  • Daily biological monitoring of sterilizers is performed; load content sheets are accurate and all documentation is retained as required.
  • Acts as a resource to operating room staff in the proper methodology for decontamination and sterilization of items needed for immediate use.
  • Instruments and equipment are received from manufacturer representatives for sterilization and use in the operating room.
    • Items are inspected, inventoried, decontaminated and sterilized according to manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU).
    • Items received and returned are accurately documented.
  • Orders and inventories supplies, in sterile processing department and packs in SPD for cases, to insure adequate supplies for surgical procedures as assigned.
  • Assembles and transports instruments and supplies to the operating room for surgical procedures as listed on the operative schedule.
  • Maintains competency in information technology applications.
• The Lead Sterile Processing Technician participates in the development and evaluation of staff members in the department.
  • Training and continuing education are provided to maintain staff skills and performance.
  • Staff performance is observed and feedback provided.
  • Participates in the hiring process of new sterile processing staff members.
• The Lead Sterile Processing Technician assists other departments within Ellis Medicine acting as a resource in the areas of decontamination, sterilization and instrumentation.                                

• The Lead Sterile Processing Technician maintains current knowledge of AAMI standards and recommendations.
  • Ellis Medicine policies and procedures are updated to reflect accepted industry standards.
  • Joint Commission and NYSDOH standards are observed.
• Adheres to hospital policies and procedures related to:
  • Mandatory Education
  • Annual health assessment
• Adheres to the policies and procedures as outlined in the Exposure Control                       
  • Manual regarding:

• • Bloodborne Pathogens
  • Disposal of Needles, Syringes and Sharps
  • Cleanup Procedures for blood and body fluid spills

• Storage, Handling and Disposal of Medical Waste

Ellis Medicine is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex/gender, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, predisposition or carrier status, military or veteran status, prior arrest, or conviction record, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender identity, gender expression, reproductive health decisions, or domestic violence victim status.

Salary Range:  $21.22-30.77     /hour                   Pay is based on experience, skills, and education. Exempt positions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) will be paid within the base salary equivalent of the stated hourly rates. The pay range may also vary within the stated range based on location.