How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Arizona

Whether you are on the verge of graduating high school or looking for a career change, working towards becoming a sterile processing technician can be a rewarding goal.

Since sterile processing technicians sterilize key components of medical procedures and equipment, you will get hands-on experience in the medical field.

This makes it a great choice for those who are interested in healthcare or custodial services.

If you live in Arizona, follow these steps to enter this field.

Steps to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Arizona

1. Research the position’s salary, requirements, and potential barriers.

Before committing to a certification program for sterile processing tech, you will want to make sure that this role is right for you.

This means seeing what a day would look like in the shoes of a sterile processing technician.

It would also mean researching the growth of this job and the typical wage or salary.

2. Gather information from potential programs

When you’re looking into various schools, you should fill out their forms to receive more information about their programs.

You should also ask to speak with an admissions representative to find out if you would meet their requirements.

These conversations also create an opportunity for you to express your interest and stand out from other applicants.

3. Apply to sterile processing technician programs

Once you have made a list of the top programs that you would like to pursue, you can start filling out applications.

Take your time to review what materials these programs need.

If you need transcripts from other educational institutions such as your high school or other colleges, you should get those ahead of time to streamline the process.

You should also set aside the money necessary to pay application fees.

Once you have applied, you should receive some kind of confirmation that your application is submitted.

4. Enroll and register for a program

Once you’ve applied and received your acceptance letter, you can enroll in classes and register for your courses.

Sometimes, you’ll need to repeat this for multiple terms or semesters.

For short-term certification programs, this may only be a one-time step.

5. Complete educational requirements

Whether you are getting a diploma, associate’s degree, or certificate in sterile processing technology or a related field, you’ll need to satisfy your educational requirements before moving toward employment.

6. Apply for sterile processing tech positions and interview

While you could technically do this step first if you don’t want to go through education, it does help to have a background in this field before attempting to score a job.

After all, most of the candidates who are applying will have some experience in this field through education or previous work experience.

7. Show up on your first day ready for success

After all your hard work, it’s time to accept the job offer and get started.

Ask your employer for information on the dress code and other relevant policies to make a great impression on your first day.

Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Arizona

Maricopa Community Colleges

This community college located in AZ offers a Certificate of Completion (CCL) in the Hospital Central Service Technology program that gets students ready to tackle their first sterile processing job confidently.

This program consists of two terms where students will take classes on CPR for healthcare providers, foundational healthcare work courses, and specialized classes such as Advanced Surgical Instruments for Surgical Services.

It’s a great, affordable program for those residing within commuting distance.

Once students complete the CCL, they can sit for further certifications that increase their credibility within the field.

Brookline College

For Tuscon residents, Brookline College’s Sterile Processing Program might be the most convenient choice.

At the end of the 42-week program, students will graduate with a diploma that will help them launch their new career in sterile processing.

Central Service Technician Clinical Rotation

If you want more experience in the field before heading into the workforce, an internship with an established program may be the way to go.

As a student at GateWay Community College, East Valley Institute of Technology, or Pima Medical Institute, you can take advantage of the Central Service Technician Clinical Rotation.

After you have completed 400 hours of this program, you will be eligible to complete the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association exam.

Once you have passed, you will officially be a Certified Registered Central Service Technician.

Although this isn’t a school, it is an extension of available programs that may improve your chances of securing your desired employment opportunities.

Students who complete this may feel more confident about taking the HSPA certification exam.

They may also perform better in their entry-level role with more practice than their peers who did not complete an accredited internship.

Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Arizona – Summary Table

Salary

In Arizona, Sterile Processing Techs report making about $45,371 annually on average.

The pay for this role in AZ tends to range from $35,804 to $59,293 as a yearly salary.

Regional Salary in Arizona