How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Utah

If you find yourself drawn to the medical field, a sterile processing technician position may be perfect for you.

By ensuring that medical tools and equipment are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized before use, sterile processing technicians play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of patients.

The information below will help you become a sterile processing technician in Utah.

Steps to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Utah

Utah is one of many states in the United States that does not require licensing or certification for sterile processing technician career seekers.

While this may make the process appear straightforward, it is important to note that Utah healthcare facilities have varying hiring requirements.

Below is information on becoming a sterile processing technician in Utah, including education and experience requirements, national certification options, and employment advice

Step 1: Get your high school diploma or the equivalent

The first step to becoming a sterile processing technician in Utah is to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.

This educational requirement is typically the minimum requirement for employment in most healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers.

Step 2: Complete a sterile processing training program

While Utah does not require a sterile processing technician to complete a formal training program, it is highly recommended.

These programs give students the knowledge and skills to work in a healthcare facility’s sterile processing department.

Students will learn about surgical instrumentation, infection prevention and control, sterilization techniques, and equipment maintenance.

The duration of the program may vary depending on the school and the program chosen.

Programs can take anywhere from six months to a year to complete.

Some programs also offer an internship or externship, which can provide students with hands-on experience in a healthcare facility.

Step 3: Gain work experience

Many employers prefer sterile processing technicians with prior work experience.

Prospective technicians can gain this experience through internships or externships in healthcare facilities.

This experience provides students with hands-on experience with different medical equipment, sterilization techniques, and how to work in a sterile environment.

Another way to gain work experience is to work in a related field such as medical assisting, surgical technology, or a similar role in a healthcare setting.

This experience can benefit those wanting to pursue a sterile processing career.

Step 4: Consider national certification

While Utah does not require national certification for sterile processing technicians, some employers may prefer or require it.

National certification demonstrates a technician’s knowledge and skills in sterile processing and can increase their job opportunities.

The two most widely recognized national certifications for sterile processing technicians are the Certified Registered Central Service Technician certification offered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association and the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician certification offered by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution.

To obtain national certification, technicians must meet the eligibility requirements and pass a certification exam.

Step 5: Apply for jobs

After completing a sterile processing training program and gaining work experience, the next step is to apply for jobs.

Healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers, are Utah’s primary employers of sterile processing technicians.

When applying for a sterile processing technician job, it is essential to have a well-prepared resume that highlights your education, experience, and skills.

Also, consider including any certifications or licenses that you hold.

Here are some recommendations to assist you in your job search:

1. Check Online Job Boards: Utilize online job boards, such as Indeed or Glassdoor, to find job opportunities in Utah. These platforms allow you to filter job openings by location, salary, and experience level.
2. Network: Networking is a crucial component of any job search. Attend career fairs or networking events to connect with potential employers and other professionals in the healthcare industry. Building relationships and connections can help you find job opportunities not advertised online.
3. Check Healthcare Facilities’ Websites: Visit the websites of healthcare facilities in Utah, such as hospitals or surgical centers, to see if they have any job openings for sterile processing technicians. Many healthcare facilities post job openings on their websites.
4. Contact Staffing Agencies: Staffing agencies can help match you with job opportunities in your field. Contact a staffing agency that specializes in healthcare staffing to help you find job openings.
5. Apply Directly: If you have identified a healthcare facility you want to work for, consider applying directly. Visit their website or contact their HR department to inquire about job openings and the application process.

Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Utah

If you wish to pursue a career as a sterile processing technician, Mountainland Technical College (MTECH) and Penn Foster offer comprehensive training programs in Utah.

Mountainland Technical College (MTECH)

MTECH is a public community college with three campuses in Lehi, Orem, and Spanish Fork, Utah.

The college offers a Sterile Processing Technician program that prepares students to work in healthcare facilities’ sterile processing departments.

Essentials like surgical instrumentation, infection prevention, sterilization methods, and equipment maintenance are covered over the nine-month program.

The program costs $2,660.

As a student at MTECH, you will benefit from experienced instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, and hands-on training opportunities.

The college also offers job placement assistance to help graduates find employment.

Penn Foster

Penn Foster is an online education provider that offers a Sterile Processing Technician Career Diploma program.

This program prepares students for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician examination.

Training in aseptic technique, HIPAA privacy regulations, and other topics relevant to the work of sterile processing technicians are all included.

The program is 100% online, with no deadlines, so students can study independently.

Penn Foster students will also benefit from mobile-friendly coursework, a dedicated faculty, and progress-tracking and goal-setting tools.

The program’s admission requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent, and the program’s total cost is $1,199.

Penn Foster offers flexible payment plans with 0% interest and low monthly payments.

Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Utah – Summary Table

Salary

Salary.com says the average annual salary for a sterile processing technician in Utah is $34,930.

The salary range typically falls between $27,709 and $43,451.

Regional Salary in Utah