Requirement : Director of Sterilization Services
Location : Onsite in Wilmington, Delaware / Newark, New Jersey
Overview :
We are seeking a Director of Sterilization Services who would be responsible for managing and overseeing all aspects of sterilization and reprocessing operations within the hospital. This position ensures that the sterilization of instruments, equipment, and surgical supplies meets regulatory standards, supports patient safety, and aligns with hospital goals. It requires a blend of technical expertise, operational management, and strategic leadership.
Key Responsibilities :
Operational Leadership
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Sterile Processing Department, ensuring timely and accurate sterilization and distribution of instruments and supplies.
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for decontamination, sterilization, and quality assurance.
- Monitor departmental workflows to ensure efficiency and compliance with service level agreements (SLAs).
Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control
Ensure compliance with all applicable standards and regulations, including AAMI, CDC, Joint Commission, OSHA, and other governing bodies.Lead internal and external audits, inspections, and surveys, addressing any deficiencies promptly.Develop and maintain policies and procedures to ensure adherence to infection prevention and control standards.Staff Management and Development
Hire, train, and mentor sterile processing staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.Conduct performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and implement development plans as needed.Create and maintain staffing schedules to ensure adequate coverage for all shifts.Inventory and Equipment Management
Manage inventory of sterile processing supplies, instruments, and equipment to ensure availability and cost efficiency.Oversee preventive maintenance and repairs for sterilization equipment, coordinating with vendors as necessary.Evaluate and recommend new equipment and technologies to improve departmental operations.Collaboration and Communication
Serve as the primary liaison between the SPD and surgical, nursing, and other clinical teams to ensure seamless service delivery.Address and resolve concerns or complaints regarding sterilization processes or instrument availability.Actively participate in hospital committees related to infection control, safety, and quality improvement.Administrative and Strategic Duties
Develop and manage the SPD’s annual budget, monitoring expenses and ensuring cost-effective operations.Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), such as instrument turnaround times, quality control results, and regulatory compliance.Develop and implement long-term plans to enhance SPD performance, safety, and scalability.Qualifications :
Education :Bachelor’s degree in healthcare management, nursing, or a related field (Master’s preferred).Experience :Extensive experience in sterile processing, central supply management, or related fields (5 years in leadership roles).Certifications :Certification in sterile processing (e.g., CRCST, CHL, or CIS from HSPA / IAHCSMM).MUST HAVE - Director Level Exp. in SterilizationLeadership QualitiesSkills and Competencies :
Strong knowledge of sterilization techniques, equipment, and industry standards.Leadership and team management expertise.Analytical and problem-solving skills to optimize workflows.Effective communication for collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.Proficiency in data analysis and reporting to drive performance improvements.