Central Sterile Processing Technician - Full Time (40 hours/week) - Day Shift

As a Central Sterile Processing Technician at Kittitas Valley Healthcare (KVH), your primary responsibilities include executing decontamination and sterilization processes in compliance with health regulations, inspecting and assembling complex surgical instruments, managing endoscope reprocessing, and facilitating the transportation and storage of sterile items. You will play a crucial role in maintaining the quality of patient care and ensuring that all surgical instruments and equipment are safe for use.

To qualify for the Central Sterile Processing Technician position at Kittitas Valley Healthcare, candidates should hold a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. Certification through a recognized organization such as IAHCSMM or CBSPD is required within one year of hire. Additionally, prior experience as an NAC or MA-C, along with a current Washington State NAC or MA-C license, is preferred for candidates seeking this rewarding opportunity.

Kittitas Valley Healthcare offers a compelling benefits package for its Central Sterile Processing Technicians, which includes medical, dental, and vision insurance with a low employee contribution, pension eligibility after just one year, educational programs for professional growth, and a robust employee wellness program. KVH is committed to employee care and values the dedication of its team members.

To become certified as a Central Sterile Processing Technician at Kittitas Valley Healthcare, you will be enrolled in On-the-Job training and online programs within your first year of joining. Alternatively, candidates with current certification from IAHCSMM or CBSPD will be recognized. KVH encourages personal growth and ongoing education to enhance your skills and career opportunities.

The hourly wage for a Central Sterile Processing Technician at Kittitas Valley Healthcare varies based on certification and experience. Non-certified technicians can expect to earn between $18.00 and $27.28 per hour, while those with certification can earn between $20.93 and $31.72 per hour. Shift differentials may also apply, increasing your earnings based on the hours worked.

When answering this question, highlight your understanding of the sterilization protocols, including decontamination procedures, monitoring sterilization equipment, and keeping detailed records. Emphasize the importance of adhering to regulatory standards and any personal experiences you have in maintaining these processes in past roles.

You should prepare to discuss specific types of surgical instruments you have worked with, your familiarity with their care and maintenance, and how you ensure their proper assembly and functionality. Use examples to demonstrate your hands-on experience and attention to detail.

An effective way to answer this is by discussing the importance of a systematic approach, such as assessing urgency based on surgical schedules and patient needs. Mention specific organizational strategies you utilize, like checklists or prioritization systems, to manage multiple tasks without compromising quality.

Select a particular challenge that showcases your problem-solving skills. Discuss the situation briefly, focusing on how you identified the problem, the steps you took to resolve it, and what you learned from the experience that has made you a more capable technician.

Explain your commitment to continuing education, whether through attending workshops, online courses, or reading industry publications. Discuss any specific organizations or resources you follow to stay informed about best practices and regulatory updates in the field.

Demonstrate your understanding of safety protocols by discussing key practices such as proper equipment handling, infection control measures, and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage. Provide examples of how you incorporate these protocols into your daily routine.

Share a specific team experience, emphasizing your role and contributions. Talk about how effective communication and collaboration contributed to achieving shared goals, and how you support and motivate team members.

A good response would illustrate your methods for managing stress, such as maintaining a positive attitude, utilizing time-management techniques, and taking breaks when necessary. Use a personal anecdote to demonstrate how you've successfully navigated stressful periods in your career.

List any relevant tools or technologies you have experience with, such as sterilizers, washers, or tracking software. Highlight any specific training or certifications you possess that enhance your skill set in using these tools efficiently.

Personalize your answer by expressing your admiration for KVH’s mission and values. Share how your career goals align with theirs, emphasizing your passion for delivering quality healthcare, and your desire to contribute positively to the health of the local community.