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Pennsylvania’s healthcare industry provides an attractive working environment known for its stability and security, which makes it a desirable option for individuals seeking employment.
Compared to other occupations, jobs in this field provide a higher level of job stability.
If you’re considering a career as a sterile processing technician, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the necessary requirements.
In the following sections, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to become a sterile processing technician in Pennsylvania.
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Job Duties and Skills of a Sterile Processing Technician in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, it is not obligatory to obtain a license for your initial position as a sterile processing technician.
However, while many medical facilities do hire individuals for this role, most prefer candidates who possess previous experience.
As a result, certification plays a crucial role in showcasing your skills and the necessary knowledge required for the job.
It serves as a means to demonstrate your competence and qualifications in the field of sterile processing.
As a sterile processing technician, your daily responsibilities will include:
- Conducting inventory checks
- Managing and monitoring the spread of illness and infection
- Cleaning, sterilizing, packaging, and storing medical instruments
- Maintaining and repairing medical equipment
It is essential to follow specific protocols and methods for the appropriate disinfection and sterilization of medical tools and equipment.
You should also have the following skills:
- Strong organizational skills
- Problem-solving abilities relevant to the role
- Knowledge of medical terminology
- A thorough understanding of aseptic techniques
Remember that skill requirements may vary according to the employer.
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, there are multiple pathways available to obtain certification as a sterile processing technician.
The most straightforward approach is to successfully complete the national certification exam, which typically lasts for three hours.
There are several organizations in Pennsylvania that offer certification exams, and one such option is the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).
HSPA provides various levels of certification, with entry-level certification generally meeting the requirements for most positions.
Subsequently, you can further enhance your qualifications by taking the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam.
Alternatively, you may opt for certification through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).
Apart from passing the certification exam, acquiring a license necessitates one year of relevant experience.
Other requirements include:
- Completing approximately 400 hours of lab experience
- Submitting the necessary fees
- Obtaining a high school diploma or GED
- Passing a background check and drug tests
- Successfully passing the licensing exam
It’s important to remember that your sterile processing technician certification will need to be renewed once a year.
Training Programs for Sterile Processing Technicians in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania, with its thriving healthcare industry, provides a range of education programs for individuals interested in pursuing a career as sterile processing technicians.
Community College of Philadelphia 
Their 80-hour program focuses on teaching the essential skills and knowledge required to sterilize and distribute medical instruments.
Additionally, it prepares students to sit for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam.
Harrisburg University 
It offers a six to nine-month program that covers healthcare rules and regulations, medical terminology, and sterile processing technology.
With a curriculum designed to align with the requirements of the CRCST exam, this program provides students with a solid foundation for their future careers.
Westmoreland County Community College 
For those seeking a program that equips them with basic knowledge for entry-level positions, this school offers a suitable option.
Upon completion of this program, graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce.
In addition to these educational institutions, there are specialized training providers that offer courses in sterile processing in Pennsylvania.
Aseptic Technical Solutions 
Located in Philadelphia, it offers live virtual options for its technical certificate program.
The virtual option is ideal for those who are already working in the field.
All their courses are designed to prepare learners for the CRCST certification exam.
For students enrolled in the in-person course, they offer assistance in securing externships to gain work experience.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Aseptic Technical Solutions | online classes |
| Community College of Philadelphia | 1700 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
| Harrisburg University | 326 Market St, Harrisburg, PA 17101 |
| Westmoreland County Community College | 145 Pavilion Ln, Youngwood, PA 15697 |
Sterile Processing Technician Salaries in Pennsylvania
Once you have successfully obtained your license as a certified sterile processing technician in Pennsylvania, you may find yourself eager to begin your job search without delay.
The healthcare industry in Pennsylvania is home to a diverse range of medical facilities, including hospitals, laboratories, doctor’s offices, clinics, and dental practices.
These institutions always seek qualified sterile processing technicians to keep a safe environment for medical procedures.
One aspect that you may be curious about is how much you will earn once you get hired.
The average salary for individuals in this role is calculated on a yearly basis and tends to average around 45,800.
But, keep in mind your salary will also be influenced by your experience.
The medical sector, particularly as a sterile processing technician, has a lot of potential for professional growth.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Doylestown | $49,901 |
| Philadelphia | $48,700 |
| West Chester | $48,076 |
| Stroudsburg | $47,078 |
| Allentown | $46,249 |
| Bethlehem | $46,249 |
| Easton | $46,176 |
| Reading | $45,651 |
| Pittsburgh | $45,203 |
| York | $44,987 |
Regional Salary in Pennsylvania
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ | 170 | $45,260 | $21.76 | $57,550 | $37,380 |
| Erie, PA | 50 | $39,020 | $18.76 | $47,550 | $34,150 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA | 220 | $44,190 | $21.25 | $54,550 | $36,970 |
| Lancaster, PA | 90 | $42,860 | $20.61 | $53,600 | $36,470 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | 1,330 | $50,030 | $24.05 | $59,010 | $39,770 |
| Pittsburgh, PA | 460 | $45,650 | $21.95 | $55,770 | $37,100 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre--Hazleton, PA | 120 | $43,720 | $21.02 | $56,080 | $36,110 |
| York-Hanover, PA | 70 | $42,790 | $20.57 | $50,540 | $36,000 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind Of Job is That of a Sterile Processing Technician in Pennsylvania?
This is an entry-level position, thus you can get hired fresh out of high school.
What are the Opportunities for Future Sterile Processing Technicians?
There are several job opportunities available to sterile processing technicians, with most of them being in the medical field.
Some include supervisors or managers of other sterile processing technicians, registered nurses, and other types of personnel in the surgical team, to name a few.
What is the Job Growth for Sterile Processing Technicians in Pennsylvania?
The job outlook for Sterile Processing Technicians in Pennsylvania is optimistic, with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029.
This indicates a favorable trend in terms of job opportunities and demand for professionals in this field within the state.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician
Sterile Processing Technician by State