What Can You Do With a Sterile Processing Technician Certificate in 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What jobs can you get with a sterile processing technician certificate in 2025?

Earning a sterile processing technician certificate equips graduates to work in critical behind-the-scenes roles that directly affect patient safety. The most common entry-level title is “Sterile Processing Technician” or “Central Sterile Processing Technician,” but other related job titles include Medical Equipment Preparer, Central Service Technician, and Instrument Technician. 

These roles are essential in ensuring that surgical instruments, trays, and equipment are thoroughly cleaned, sterilized, and properly assembled for medical procedures. Graduates are often employed in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and specialty clinics where the demand for sterile processing support remains high. 

Some may also find opportunities in dental offices, endoscopy centers, and physician practices that require infection prevention expertise. For those comparing healthcare entry points, it’s worth noting that while sterile processing technicians work primarily with instruments and equipment, other entry-level careers focus on patient-facing duties. For example, if you’re wondering what is the difference between a dental assistant and a dental hygienist, the contrast lies in direct patient care versus technical support.

Additionally, some graduates use their sterile processing technician certificate as a stepping stone to more advanced roles in healthcare. With experience, technicians may progress into leadership positions, become surgical technologists, or pursue further education in related health science programs.

How much do sterile processing technicians make in 2025?

Compensation for professionals holding a sterile processing technician certificate varies by location, experience, and workplace setting. According to BLS, medical equipment preparers—which includes sterile processing technicians—had a median annual wage of $46,490 as of the latest report. Entry-level workers may start lower, but earnings typically rise with experience, certification, and shift differentials for evenings, nights, or weekends.

Wages also differ depending on the healthcare environment. Large hospitals and surgical centers often offer higher pay compared to smaller clinics or dental offices. Some professionals also pursue travel contracts, which can result in higher earnings for short-term placements in high-demand regions. Comparing salary opportunities with other allied health roles can also be useful. 

For instance, if you’re curious about the earning potential in related careers, see this overview of a clinical technologist salary. For technicians committed to advancing their careers, gaining certification or specializing in complex areas like endoscope reprocessing can increase earning potential.

Is there a demand for sterile processing technicians in 2025?

Employment data confirms that graduates with a sterile processing technician certificate are entering a field with strong growth prospects. According to O*NET OnLine, medical equipment preparers are projected to experience employment growth of 6% to 8%, faster than the average for all occupations.

This trend is driven by factors such as an aging population requiring more surgical procedures, advances in medical technology, and a heightened focus on infection prevention in all healthcare settings. Nurses looking to further advance their careers can consider RN to BSN to MSN online programs, which provide a streamlined path from registered nurse to advanced practice roles while maintaining flexibility for working professionals.

Healthcare employers continue to highlight sterile processing as a vital support function. Hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and physician practices depend on these professionals to ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain efficiency in operating rooms. Even smaller facilities, such as dental clinics, are increasingly aware of the importance of hiring qualified personnel to manage sterilization processes.

For individuals considering healthcare careers, sterile processing offers an accessible entry point with long-term stability. Just as accelerated academic options exist for other allied health professions—such as a fast track from dental assistant to dental hygienist—completing a sterile processing technician certificate provides a relatively quick pathway to employment in a critical, growing sector of healthcare.

What skills are most important to succeed in sterile processing?

Success in sterile processing requires both technical knowledge and strong personal skills. Completing a sterile processing technician certificate program provides foundational training in infection control, medical terminology, and sterilization procedures. For those aiming to move into administrative or executive roles, pursuing online DNP programs in leadership can further develop strategic, management, and clinical decision-making skills essential for advanced healthcare leadership.

According to Zippia, the most common skills for sterile processing technicians include:

• Patient-focused awareness – Understanding how instrument safety directly impacts patient health, even without direct patient contact.
• Sterilization methods – Mastery of autoclaves, chemical disinfectants, and other sterilization processes.
• Knowledge of IAHCSMM standards – Following nationally recognized guidelines for safety and compliance.
• Customer service skills – Communicating effectively with surgical teams, nurses, and other healthcare staff.
• Medical terminology – Recognizing instrument names, tray configurations, and procedure requirements.
• Cleanliness and attention to detail – Maintaining sterile conditions and preventing contamination.

Beyond technical ability, sterile processing professionals must also demonstrate reliability, adaptability, and teamwork. Developing these competencies not only prepares individuals for certification exams but also for career growth. For those comparing training routes, some students may consider cheapest online sterile processing technician certificate programs to gain these skills at a lower cost while still building the expertise needed for success.

What’s the difference between a sterile processing technician certificate and certification?

A sterile processing technician certificate is typically awarded after completing an educational program that provides foundational training in infection control, sterilization methods, and medical terminology. This credential demonstrates completion of coursework but does not, on its own, validate professional competency at a national level.

Certification, on the other hand, is earned by passing an exam administered by recognized organizations such as the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) or the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD). Credentials like Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or CBSPD certify that an individual has met national standards and completed the required clinical experience.

Both pathways complement one another: the certificate prepares graduates for entry-level employment, while certification confirms readiness for advanced responsibilities and may increase earning potential. Learners considering parallel career routes may also explore affordable PCT certification programs online, which similarly combine education and certification for patient care roles.

Do sterile processing programs include clinical or externship hours?

Most sterile processing technician certificate programs include a clinical or externship component, as hands-on training is essential to meet employer and certification requirements. These placements typically occur in hospitals or surgical centers, allowing students to practice decontamination, assembly, sterilization, and documentation under supervision.

Externships also help students accumulate the practical hours needed for eligibility to sit for the CRCST or CBSPD exams. While the number of required hours varies, programs often provide structured opportunities to log this experience.

Students seeking quicker entry into the workforce sometimes compare training lengths across healthcare programs. Similar to shortest health sciences online programs, sterile processing certificates can often be completed in less than a year, making them one of the fastest paths into healthcare support roles.

What’s the pass rate for sterile processing technician certification exams?

The most recognized credential in this field, the CRCST, requires passing a 150-question multiple-choice exam. It covers seven domains: cleaning, decontamination, disinfection, preparation, documentation, sterilization, and storage.

To pass, candidates must score 70% or higher, demonstrating competency across all areas of sterile processing. While official pass rates are not consistently published, the exam is designed to ensure only those with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience earn certification.

Completing a sterile processing technician certificate program provides essential preparation, and for those seeking to advance into management or leadership roles, an online graduate certificate in nursing leadership can further enhance skills in supervision, policy implementation, and healthcare team coordination.

What career paths are available after starting as a sterile processing technician?

Graduates who begin their careers with a sterile processing technician certificate often advance into higher-level roles within central sterile departments or related areas of healthcare. Common career steps include Lead Technician, Supervisor, or Manager positions, which involve overseeing staff, quality assurance, and departmental compliance.

With additional certifications, technicians may specialize in areas such as endoscopy reprocessing, instrument tracking systems, or sterile storage management. Certifications like CIS (Certified Instrument Specialist), CER (Certified Endoscope Reprocessor), and CHL (Certified Healthcare Leader) provide opportunities for advancement and higher pay.

Some professionals also transition into related clinical roles, such as surgical technologists or infection prevention specialists, by pursuing further education. In this way, a sterile processing technician certificate can serve as both an entry point and a foundation for long-term career growth.

Where do sterile processing technicians typically work besides hospitals?

While hospitals employ the majority of sterile processing professionals, other healthcare environments also depend on these roles. According to BLS, employment for medical equipment preparers is highest in:

• General medical and surgical hospitals: 49,980 employed
• Offices of dentists: 6,800 employed
• Outpatient care centers: 4,490 employed
• Offices of physicians: 3,370 employed
• Employment services (contract/travel roles): 1,880 employed

This range of settings highlights the versatility of a sterile processing technician certificate. Dental and outpatient clinics, in particular, increasingly rely on trained personnel to manage infection prevention and equipment sterilization. For nurses seeking to advance clinically while focusing on mental health, a graduate certificate in PMHNP online offers specialized training to expand their scope of practice in psychiatric-mental health care.

What professional associations should sterile processing technicians join?

Joining professional associations provides networking, continuing education, and career development opportunities for sterile processing professionals. The HSPA, formerly known as IAHCSMM, is the largest and most recognized organization, offering certification exams, annual conferences, and resources for members.

The CBSPD also supports professionals through credentialing and continuing education. In addition, organizations like the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) provide access to technical standards and industry updates relevant to sterile processing.

Membership in these associations helps professionals with a sterile processing technician certificate remain current with evolving best practices, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements in healthcare sterilization.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Sterile Processing Technician Certificate

Other Things You Should Know About What You Can Do With a Sterile Processing Technician Certificate

Can you become a surgical tech with a sterile processing certificate?

While a sterile processing technician certificate provides a strong entry point into healthcare, it does not directly qualify you to work as a surgical technologist. Surgical technologists usually require a dedicated surgical technology program and certification. However, many sterile processing technicians transition into surgical tech roles after gaining experience and further training. Employers often value SPD experience because it builds a deep understanding of instrumentation and sterile fields. This makes the certificate a stepping stone toward surgical technology careers.

Can you work as a sterile processing tech without certification?

In some states, you may be hired with only a sterile processing technician certificate, especially for entry-level positions. However, many employers strongly prefer or require certification (such as CRCST or CBSPD) for long-term employment and career advancement. Hospitals in certain states, such as New Jersey and Connecticut, legally require certification. Even where it’s optional, certification tends to result in better job stability and higher pay. In short, the certificate may get you hired, but certification often secures your future in the field.

Is sterile processing technician a hard job?

Sterile processing is often described as demanding but rewarding. The role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to follow strict infection control standards. Long hours on your feet, repetitive tasks, and responsibility for surgical safety can make it challenging. However, many technicians find fulfillment in knowing their work directly prevents infections and supports patient care. For individuals who are detail-oriented and reliable, the job offers both stability and purpose.

Can you advance into infection prevention with a sterile processing technician certificate?

Yes, but typically with additional education and credentials. A sterile processing technician certificate provides knowledge of infection control practices that align closely with infection prevention roles. Many technicians go on to earn bachelor’s or master’s degrees in public health, healthcare administration, or nursing before moving into this specialty. Some also pursue certifications in infection prevention through organizations such as APIC (Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology). Starting in sterile processing can therefore serve as a valuable first step toward an infection prevention career.