## Associate Sterile Processing Technician - Evenings at Sanford Health, Fargo, ND Are you looking for a rewarding career where you can make a real difference in patient care? Sanford Health in Fargo, North Dakota, is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Associate Sterile Processing Technician to join our evening shift team. In this vital role, you'll be responsible for ensuring that all surgical instruments and medical equipment are properly cleaned, sterilized, and prepared for use, contributing directly to the safety and well-being of our patients. **Role Overview** As an Associate Sterile Processing Technician, you will play a crucial role in preventing infections and ensuring the smooth operation of our surgical and medical procedures. Your primary responsibilities will include: * **Decontamination:** Cleaning and disinfecting contaminated instruments and equipment using appropriate solutions and equipment. * **Inspection:** Carefully inspecting instruments for damage, cleanliness, and proper functionality. * **Assembly:** Assembling instrument trays and sets according to established protocols. * **Sterilization:** Operating and monitoring sterilization equipment, such as autoclaves and sterilizers. * **Storage:** Properly storing sterilized instruments and equipment in designated areas. * **Inventory Management:** Maintaining accurate records of instrument and equipment inventory. * **Quality Control:** Participating in quality control activities to ensure compliance with sterilization standards. * **Documentation:** Accurately documenting all cleaning, sterilization, and quality control processes. This role requires a strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. You will be trained on the job, learning the specific procedures and protocols necessary to excel in this role. **A Day in the Life** Here's a glimpse into what a typical day might look like for an Associate Sterile Processing Technician on the evening shift: * **2:00 PM:** Arrive at work and receive handoff from the previous shift. Review the schedule and prioritize tasks for the evening. * **2:30 PM:** Begin decontaminating incoming instruments and equipment from various departments. * **3:30 PM:** Inspect decontaminated instruments for cleanliness and damage. Replace or repair damaged instruments as needed. * **4:30 PM:** Assemble instrument trays and sets according to established protocols. * **5:30 PM:** Load and operate sterilization equipment, ensuring proper temperature and pressure settings. * **6:30 PM:** Monitor sterilization cycles and document results. * **7:30 PM:** Remove sterilized instruments from the sterilizer and allow them to cool. * **8:00 PM:** Store sterilized instruments and equipment in designated areas, maintaining proper inventory levels. * **9:00 PM:** Prepare for the next day by restocking supplies and organizing the work area. * **10:00 PM:** Assist with any urgent requests for instruments or equipment. * **10:30 PM:** Complete documentation and hand off to the next shift. **Why Fargo, North Dakota?** Fargo is a vibrant and growing city that offers a high quality of life at an affordable cost. With a thriving arts and culture scene, excellent schools, and a friendly community, Fargo is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. The city boasts a diverse economy, with strong sectors in healthcare, technology, and agriculture. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous parks, trails, and recreational opportunities available in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Plus, with no weekend hours in this role, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy all that Fargo has to offer. **Career Path** Sanford Health is committed to providing opportunities for growth and advancement to our employees. As an Associate Sterile Processing Technician, you'll have access to on-the-job training and professional development resources to help you expand your skills and knowledge. Our department offers a clear career path with five different levels of responsibility and pay, allowing you to advance your career within sterile processing. With experience and certification, you can progress to roles such as Sterile Processing Technician, Lead Technician, or even Supervisor. **Salary and Benefits** The salary range for this position is estimated between $32,000 and $47,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Sanford Health also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * Medical, dental, and vision insurance * Paid time off (PTO) and holidays * 401(k) retirement plan with employer match * Life and disability insurance * Employee assistance program (EAP) * Tuition reimbursement * Employee discounts * Daily Pay - access your earned wages before payday! **Sanford Health Culture** At Sanford Health, we are committed to the work of health and healing. We value teamwork, innovation, and a patient-centered approach to care. We are proud to offer a supportive and collaborative work environment where employees are empowered to make a difference. Our nearly 50,000 members of the Sanford Family are dedicated to providing the highest quality care to our patients and communities. **How to Apply** If you are a motivated and detail-oriented individual with a passion for patient safety, we encourage you to apply for the Associate Sterile Processing Technician position at Sanford Health in Fargo, ND. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application system. We look forward to hearing from you! **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)** 1. **What are the essential duties of an Associate Sterile Processing Technician?** The essential duties include cleaning, disinfecting, inspecting, assembling, sterilizing, and storing surgical instruments and medical equipment. 2. **What qualifications are required for this position?** A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred. Prior experience in central processing or a healthcare environment is also preferred, as is knowledge of medical terminology. Strong computer skills are required. 3. **Is certification required for this role?** Certification in Central Service Technology (CRCST) is strongly preferred within 24 months of hire. 4. **What is the work schedule for this position?** The work schedule is Monday-Friday, 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM, with no weekends. The schedule includes two holidays per year. 5. **What opportunities are there for career advancement?** Sanford Health offers a clear career path within the sterile processing department, with five different levels of responsibility and pay. 6. **What is the salary range for this position?** The salary range is estimated between $32,000 and $47,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. 7. **What benefits does Sanford Health offer?** Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, 401(k), and tuition reimbursement. 8. **What is the work environment like at Sanford Health?** Sanford Health offers a supportive and collaborative work environment where employees are empowered to make a difference. 9. **Is there on-the-job training provided?** Yes, on-the-job training is provided to ensure you have the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this role. 10. **How does this role contribute to patient care?** This role is vital in preventing infections and ensuring the smooth operation of surgical and medical procedures, directly contributing to patient safety and well-being. Join our team and be a part of something meaningful at Sanford Health!