There is no denying the fact that becoming a sterile processing technician is hardly anyone’s career of choice.
But, who is a sterile processing technician?
Sterile processing technicians work to keep health facilities running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Individual positions vary depending on where you work, and job titles can be interchangeable. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that all equipment, devices, and supplies are in stock, sterile, and ready for immediate use. Their role is a crucial one since no healthcare facility would operate without them.
However, the question that often pops up is, “Is becoming a sterile processing technician a good career path?” The job entails an excellent salary package, opportunities for growth, travel, and benefits, and flexible working hours after only a short period of training. It is safe to say that the answer to the question is yes.
Let us walk you through why becoming a sterile processing technician is the right career choice for you.
- Short Training Period
Perhaps one of the best parts of pursuing a career in sterile technician training is that you do not need to invest years and years in training.
Typically, sterile technician training courses last from a few weeks to a year. You can study to earn your diploma or certificate depending on your preference and kick-start your career immediately after. Studying for a sterile processing training certification is also an excellent way to validate your range of competencies as a professional.
- Promising Career Outlook
As a sterile processing technician, you can expect promising job prospects owing to the increase in demand for healthcare services globally. A sterile processing technician’s responsibility is to ensure the proper functioning and availability of all items in a healthcare setting. Healthcare facilities are now laying particular emphasis on proper sterilization and cleaning procedures owing to the rise in hospital-acquired infections.
This newfound worldwide demand automatically increases your chances of securing a well-paying job. According to current estimates, sterile processing technician job openings will increase by 10.9% by 2026.
- Excellent Earning Prospects
The earning prospects of a sterile processing technician are exceptional, considering the short time of training that is required to become a qualified professional. In 2018, an estimate stated the salary of a technician ranged from $38000 to $54000 and more per annum. A technician’s average annual salary varies depending on factors such as work setting. Specialty hospitals, public hospitals, and outpatient care centers, for instance, promise a higher pay scale is going up to more than $59000 per year.
- Travelling Opportunities
Sterile processing technician jobs are a good fit for those who enjoy travel.
Various healthcare organizations have recently evolved into medical staffing agencies and management companies, which hire technicians to work on a contractual basis. Staffing companies thus present with excellent opportunities for temporary renewable contracts in different locations. These contracts typically offer much higher salaries and cover housing, living, and travel expenses as well. Not only are these high for travel bugs, but it is also excellent experience in terms of learning and exposure.
- Potential for Growth
A career in sterile technician training harbors the immense potential for growth and advancements with experience.
With progress comes an increase in pay as well. After working for a few years as a sterile processing technician, you can choose to modify career tracks and step into technical fields such as that of a surgical technologist.
Once you attain the initial experience of working in a health facility, you can find your way around other relevant fields for better opportunities.
- Good Job Satisfaction
When opting for a career, it is essential to realize the importance of job satisfaction for it directly influences your wellbeing.
A sterile processing technician’s role in any health setting is perhaps the most crucial of all. Medical facilities would not function without skilled and attentive technicians. If the equipment and setting were not sterile, there would be a severe threat to one’s life owing to the increased susceptibility to infection.
Healthcare facilities are warier than ever, concerning sterile processing because of the increase in antimicrobial resistance. Infections that were once easily curable are now resisting standard modes of treatment are much more life-threatening.
On average, millions of people acquire antibiotic-resistant hospital-acquired infections every year. These estimates highlight the critical need for sterile processing. Thus, as a sterile processing technician, you should feel immense pride in playing an active role in saving lives.
- Flexible Working Hours
You would think that working in a healthcare facility would entail strict schedules and long hours. This rule does not apply to sterile processing technicians because they work in shifts round the clock, which makes their schedule quite flexible. Depending on your availability and engagements, you can choose to opt for a shift that works best for you.
- Employee Benefits
In addition to a lucrative salary, sterile processing technician jobs come with excellent job benefits, which include medical and dental coverage along with life insurance. Certain companies also offer retirement saving plans, flexible leaves, and in some cases, even paid vacations.
If you are looking to earn a stable income without investing years into initial training, a career as a sterile processing technician comes with an attractive package. So what are you waiting for
Find a school nearby and get enrolled now.
