Sterile Processing Technicians are crucial members of the healthcare team who are responsible for ensuring that medical instruments are clean, sterile, and ready for use.
These professionals work behind the scenes in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, here are the steps to becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois.
Page Navigation
- Steps to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois
- Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Illinois
- Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Illinois – Summary Table
- Salary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Is certification required to become a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois?
- What is the job outlook for Sterile Processing Technicians in Illinois?
- Are there any professional organizations for Sterile Processing Technicians in Illinois?
- What continuing education is required to maintain a Sterile Processing Technician license in Illinois?
Steps to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois
Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma or Equivalent
The first step to becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois is to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
This is a requirement for all entry-level healthcare positions, including Sterile Processing Technicians.
Step 2: Enroll in a Sterile Processing Technician Program
The next step is to enroll in a Sterile Processing Technician program.
Many community colleges and vocational schools in Illinois offer these programs, which can typically be completed in less than a year.
Look for programs that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Step 3: Complete the Sterile Processing Technician Program
Once enrolled in a program, you will need to complete both classroom and hands-on training.
The coursework will cover topics such as infection control, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and sterilization techniques.
Hands-on training will involve practicing sterilization procedures, handling instruments, and operating equipment.
Step 4: Obtain Certification
While certification is not required by law, many employers in Illinois prefer or require certification from the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).
Certification demonstrates your knowledge and competency in the field and can increase your job opportunities and earning potential.
To obtain certification, you will need to pass an exam administered by either the CBSPD or IAHCSMM.
Both organizations offer multiple certifications for Sterile Processing Technicians, depending on your level of education and experience.
Step 5: Apply for Jobs
After completing your education and obtaining certification, you can start applying for jobs as a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois.
Job opportunities can be found in hospitals, surgical centers, dental offices, and other healthcare facilities.
Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Illinois
There are several schools in Illinois that offer Sterile Processing Technician programs.
Here are a few examples:
College of DuPage
This program is accredited by CAAHEP and takes one year to complete.
Tuition and fees for the program are around $5,000 for in-district students.
Harper College
This program is accredited by ABHES and takes nine months to complete.
Tuition and fees for the program are around $6,000 for in-district students.
Triton College
This program is accredited by CAAHEP and takes one year to complete.
Tuition and fees for the program are around $4,000 for in-district students.
Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Illinois – Summary Table
Top 3 Schools in Illinois
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| College of DuPage | 425 Fawell Blvd. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137-6599 |
| Harper College | 1200 W Algonquin Rd, Palatine, IL 60067, USA |
| Triton College | 2000 5th Ave, River Grove, IL 60171, USA |
Salary
According to Salary.com, the average annual salary for a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois is around $46,000.
However, this can vary depending on factors such as experience, certification, and location.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Sterile Processing Technicians in Illinois
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Chicago | $40,260 |
| Rockford | $37,590 |
| Aurora | $39,920 |
| Naperville | $39,520 |
| Peoria | $36,870 |
| Springfield | $36,120 |
| Joliet | $39,240 |
| Elgin | $39,610 |
| Waukegan | $38,140 |
| Cicero | $40,260 |
Regional Salary in Illinois
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbondale-Marion, IL | 40 | $42,690 | $20.52 | $54,700 | $33,140 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | 70 | $41,460 | $19.93 | $47,780 | $35,420 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | 1,510 | $48,810 | $23.47 | $60,800 | $38,470 |
| Peoria, IL | 120 | $39,500 | $18.99 | $49,730 | $34,480 |
| Rockford, IL | 80 | $41,590 | $19.99 | $48,970 | $36,180 |
| Springfield, IL | 90 | $40,090 | $19.27 | $47,670 | $34,070 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is certification required to become a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois?
Certification is not required by law in Illinois, but many employers prefer or require certification from the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).
What is the job outlook for Sterile Processing Technicians in Illinois?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for sterile processing technicians in Illinois, as well as the rest of the United States, is favorable.
The BLS projects that employment in this field will grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030, which is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations.
Are there any professional organizations for Sterile Processing Technicians in Illinois?
Yes, the Illinois Central Service Association (ICSA) is a professional organization for Sterile Processing Technicians in Illinois.
The ICSA offers networking opportunities, continuing education, and professional development resources for its members.
What continuing education is required to maintain a Sterile Processing Technician license in Illinois?
In Illinois, Sterile Processing Technicians are not required to complete continuing education to maintain their license.
However, it is always a good idea to stay current on the latest developments in the field and pursue continuing education opportunities to enhance one’s skills and knowledge.
