Role Overview

As a Sterile Processing Technician at WVU Medicine's Berkeley Medical Center, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our patients. Your primary responsibility will be to receive, clean, decontaminate, and sterilize reusable patient care equipment, instrumentation, and supplies. This position is essential for maintaining adequate inventory levels for all surgical and house instrumentation, trays, and supplies, directly impacting the quality of care we provide.

A Day in the Life of a Sterile Processing Technician

Your day will be dynamic and varied, requiring a high level of attention to detail and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Morning: You'll start by printing, verifying, and assembling the Perioperative Surgical schedule. This involves coordinating with the department supervisor and OR leadership team to ensure that all necessary instruments and equipment are available for the day's procedures.
• Mid-day: Throughout the day, you'll be responsible for decontaminating, cleaning, and sterilizing instruments and equipment. This includes operating and maintaining automated washing and disinfection equipment, as well as packaging and labeling instruments for sterilization. You'll also need to respond to instrument and equipment requests from physicians and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
• Afternoon: You will restock surgical services areas, including outpatient services and Labor & Delivery, ensuring that supply and specialty carts are fully stocked. You will also inventory and maintain adequate levels of all instrumentation and sterile supplies.
• Ongoing Responsibilities: You'll be responsible for maintaining sterilization records, inspecting assembled instrumentation, and coordinating suitable substitutes when necessary. Your role also involves receiving returned items, properly recording them, and returning them to inventory.

Why Martinsburg, West Virginia?

Martinsburg, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and convenient access to larger metropolitan areas. Located in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, Martinsburg is known for its rich history, affordable cost of living, and friendly community. The area boasts beautiful natural landscapes, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and fishing. With a growing job market and a range of cultural attractions, Martinsburg provides an ideal setting for both personal and professional growth.

Career Path

WVU Medicine is committed to the growth and development of its employees. As a Sterile Processing Technician, you'll have opportunities to advance your career through ongoing training and professional development programs. Potential career paths may include:

• Senior Sterile Processing Technician: Taking on more complex tasks and responsibilities, such as training new staff and overseeing quality control processes.
• Sterile Processing Supervisor: Managing a team of technicians, coordinating workflow, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• Surgical Services Management: Advancing into leadership roles within the surgical services department, overseeing sterile processing operations and contributing to strategic planning.

Salary & Benefits

WVU Medicine offers a competitive salary and benefits package for Sterile Processing Technicians. While the exact salary may vary based on experience and qualifications, we are committed to providing fair and equitable compensation. Our benefits package includes:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Paid time off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Retirement plan with employer matching contributions
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance (short-term and long-term)
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement or assistance for continuing education
• Employee discounts on WVU Medicine services and products
• Wellness programs

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is a leading healthcare system dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. Our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, respect, and continuous improvement. We are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where every employee can thrive. At WVU Medicine, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented professionals, contribute to innovative initiatives, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of our patients.

How to Apply

If you are a motivated and detail-oriented individual with a passion for sterile processing, we encourage you to apply for the Sterile Processing Technician position at WVU Medicine. To apply, please click the "Apply" button at the top of this page and complete the online application. Be sure to include your resume and any relevant certifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position?

   The minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent and certification as a Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) through the Certified Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).

2. Is prior experience required?

   While prior experience is preferred, we encourage qualified candidates with a strong desire to learn and a commitment to excellence to apply.

3. What are the working hours for this part-time position?

   The working hours for this part-time position may vary depending on the needs of the department. Flexibility is required.

4. What is the dress code?

   The dress code requires scrubs, which are often provided by the facility, and adherence to safety protocols including PPE.

5. What opportunities are there for professional development?

   WVU Medicine is committed to providing opportunities for professional development through training programs, continuing education, and career advancement opportunities.

6. What kind of equipment will I be using?

   You will be using a variety of equipment including steam sterilizers (autoclaves), low-temperature sterilization systems (such as hydrogen peroxide gas plasma), ultrasonic cleaners, automated instrument washers/disinfectors, heat sealers, and computer systems for tracking and documentation.

7. Is there potential to move to full time?

   WVU Medicine often promotes from within. Employees are encouraged to regularly review WVU Medicine career pages for new openings.

8. What does the onboarding process look like?

   The onboarding process typically involves orientation to WVU Medicine and Berkeley Medical Center policies and procedures, followed by department-specific training. This training includes hands-on experience with equipment and processes, shadowing experienced technicians, and competency assessments. The duration of the onboarding process varies depending on the individual's experience and the complexity of the role.

9. Are there opportunities to participate in continuing education or certification renewal programs?

   WVU Medicine supports sterile processing technicians in maintaining their certifications by providing access to continuing education opportunities. This includes offering in-house training programs, online courses, and financial assistance for attending external workshops and conferences. The organization recognizes the importance of staying current with best practices and technological advancements in sterile processing.

10. What is the team dynamic like in the Sterile Processing Department?

    The Sterile Processing Department at Berkeley Medical Center emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and mutual respect. The team consists of experienced technicians, supervisors, and managers who work together to ensure the safe and efficient processing of medical instruments and equipment. The department fosters a supportive environment where team members can share knowledge, provide assistance, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.